WiFi: Advantages and Disadvantages

This page explores the advantages and disadvantages of WiFi, providing a basic overview of the technology.

What is WiFi?

Introduction:

WiFi networks operate using radio frequencies in the 2.4 GHz or 5.8 GHz bands. This technology is based on WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) standards defined in the IEEE 802.11 series, including 802.11a, 802.11n, 802.11ac, and 802.11ax. These standards specify the physical (PHY) and media access control (MAC) layer characteristics.

A WiFi network is typically established using a WiFi Access Point (AP) or a WiFi router. The router/AP is connected to the internet via a wired Ethernet or fiber optic cable.

WiFi, short for Wireless Fidelity, allows two or more devices to connect wirelessly for data sharing. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to connect to a router or other devices without needing physical cables. WiFi routers in homes and offices allow multiple users to share a single internet connection wirelessly, eliminating the need for Ethernet cables.

The figure depicts a simple WiFi network.

How WiFi Works:

Let’s examine how two-way WiFi communication works between a WiFi router and a WiFi dongle (or WiFi-enabled mobile phone):

• The computer/mobile phone translates data into a radio frequency (RF) signal using a WiFi dongle/chip. This signal is then transmitted wirelessly via an antenna.
• The WiFi router receives and decodes this RF signal. After any necessary protocol conversion, the router transmits the decoded information over the internet.
• The reverse process occurs when the router receives information from the internet. It translates the data into an RF signal, which is then received by the WiFi dongle/chip in the computer/mobile phone. The dongle/chip converts the RF signal back into usable data/information.

Benefits (Advantages) of WiFi

Here are the key benefits of using WiFi:

• Easy to Add/Move Clients: Adding or moving WiFi clients (or stations) within a WiFi network created by an Access Point is straightforward.
• Quick and Easy Installation: Installation is generally quick and simple, requiring minimal technical knowledge of WiFi or WLAN systems and their protocols.
• Accessibility: Access to the WiFi network is available from anywhere within the Access Point’s coverage range.
• Affordable: WiFi-enabled USB dongles are readily available at affordable prices from various manufacturers like TP-Link, D-Link, and Tenda.
• High Data Rates: Recent WiFi standards, such as 802.11n and 802.11ac, offer fast data connection rates (e.g., 300 Mbps or higher).
• Ubiquity: WiFi functionality is easily integrated into mobile computing devices and is used by millions of people on PCs, laptops, PDAs, printers, cameras, games consoles, MP3 players, smartphones, and more.

Drawbacks (Disadvantages) of WiFi

Here are the main drawbacks of WiFi technology:

• Reduced Data Rates with Multiple Users: The data transfer rate to individual computers decreases as the number of clients connected to the WiFi network increases.
• Security Concerns: Achieving full security is challenging due to the wireless nature of WiFi connections. Proper security authentication protocols and configurations are essential.
• Limited Range: WiFi devices operate optimally within the Access Point’s range and when receiving a strong signal. WiFi access is limited to approximately 30 to 100 meters (100 to 300 feet).
• Troubleshooting: When WiFi connections fail, troubleshooting is often necessary, requiring a basic understanding of the WiFi device and the user manual provided by the manufacturer.
• Software Installation: Before using a WiFi device, software installation from a CD (provided by the manufacturer) is usually required on a desktop or laptop.

Conclusion

To fully understand the advantages and disadvantages of WiFi, one must understand the basics of the WiFi system, including the various WLAN standards and their technological comparisons with other existing technologies.