Wireless Networking Options
Can be Confusing
© 2004 Reprint by permission only. All
rights
reserved.
by Matt Hyatt
The word “wireless” is used with so many different
products and technologies that it’s become hard to figure
out what it really means. We can choose from wireless
notebook computers, PDAs, phones, networks, access points,
and “hot
spots.” To add to the confusion, some wireless products work
in one situation but not another. Fortunately, there
are only a handful of wireless communication methods
that matter for most
of us.
Easily the most popular kind of wireless connectivity
for private networks and the Internet is Wi-Fi. The
term Wi-Fi refers to wireless products that meet the
802.11a, 802.11b, or
802.11g standards for wireless networking. But don’t let
the technical jargon scare you – as long as all your Wi-Fi
devices meet the same standards, you can rest assured
that they will work together. Wi-Fi’s low cost and typical
range of 150 – 300 feet makes it a popular choice for home
and business users alike. To use Wi-Fi with your computer, you’ll
need a Wi-Fi access point, a Wi-Fi network card, and a relatively
clear
path between the two. As long as your computer remains
within range of your access point, you’ll enjoy high-speed
connectivity to other devices and services connected to your
network.
If you carry a Wi-Fi enabled notebook computer or handheld
PDA, you may occasionally want to connect to the
Internet while you’re away from your home or office. In that case,
you’ll
want to find the nearest “hot spot.” A hot spot is
simply a Wi-Fi access point that provides high-speed
Internet access in a public location. Many bookstores and coffee
shops provide
hot spots to their patrons. To connect to the Internet
at one of these locations, you pay a daily or monthly fee to
access the hot
spot while you’re in the immediate area. Some establishments
even allow patrons to use their hot spots for free.
Visit www.jiwire.com for a complete list of known
hot spots all over the world.
Some users depend on Internet connectivity enough
that it makes sense to purchase wireless data services
from a wireless phone company like T-Mobile or
Verizon. Although these
services
typically perform only about as fast as a dial-up
modem, they’re
very flexible because they provide wireless Internet access throughout
much of the providers’ calling areas. To use the service,
you’ll need a special wireless network card for your notebook
or PDA and a service subscription from your favorite wireless provider.
Watch out for excessive fees, though. Many providers charge a premium
for wireless data services, so heavy-duty users should seek out
a wireless plan with “unlimited bandwidth.”
On the opposite end of the spectrum – at
least in terms of range – is Bluetooth. Bluetooth-equipped
devices have a wireless range of a few yards, but the technology
makes it possible to transfer
data between devices without physically connecting
them. This comes in handy for all sorts of tasks that used to require
clumsy data
cables and wires. With Bluetooth, you can synchronize
your PDA to your desktop computer just by placing it nearby and
pressing
a button. Or you can transfer your contact information
from your Bluetooth-enabled phone to a customer’s notebook
computer during a business meeting. The technology
is even making its way
into cars. The new 2004 Toyota Prius can be purchased
with a Bluetooth option that enables steering
wheel and / or touch-screen control
of compatible wireless phones.
Wireless networking
is still evolving. In the coming years, look for new
products and technologies
that extend range, improve performance, and
are easier to configure. In the meantime,
there are plenty of wireless products to fit
the
needs of most mobile users. It’s just a matter
of determining how you want to use wireless
and seeking out
the right product to do the job.
Matt Hyatt is founder
of Rocket IT, an IT consulting firm
near Atlanta, Georgia. For technology help with your
business, contact Rocket IT at 770-441-2520 or visit online
at www.rocketit.com.
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