subject: No jargon: a brief analysis of Wi-Fi and WiMax [print this page] With todays fast-paced technological world of 3G and 4G networks, firewalls, IP addresses and all other fun new vernacular that is constantly pummeled into mainstream society not to mention face-to-face, opinionated conversations pertaining to the upcoming advances in the modern age yes, these do happen there comes a time ever so often when a little explaining is in order. It is easy to get lost within the web of new technological lingo, especially if the basics have yet to be covered. So, a simple, easy to understand breakdown is just what the doctor ordered. And under the microscope today is the debacle between Wi-Fi and WiMax.
To the non-technologically savvy, these two acronyms simply come off as meaning the same thing and in some cases they are actually very similar. They both are a type of service and they both provide Internet. There are a few key differences, however, that clearly distinguish the two. But no need to fret, the following analysis will contain no references to complicated radio frequencies, crazy algorithms or any modulation options that will just block out any type of knowledge absorption, leaving the reader on the floor in the fetal position. The goal of this investigation is to simply get a brief understanding of what constitutes each one. So, without further ado, lets begin.
In a nutshell, Wi-Fi provides wireless Internet within a small radius or local network, normally within a house or an apartment. That little blue box that hides in a small corner of the house with the blinking lights that you sometimes need to unplug and plug in again to get a connection, that is Wi-Fi. It takes the Internet signal, makes it wireless and sends it throughout the residence for all nearby users to access. As already stated, the actual range of Wi-Fi is pretty small, between 30 feet to 50 feet from the router. Any computer beyond that will lose the signal and will thus search for another network to join.
Many hotspots and coffee shops use Wi-Fi and normally will provide it for free to their customers. Normally, a password is required to access the network. However, there are many networks that do not have security set up, which ultimately results in free Internet usage.
There is some debate regarding the overall security of Wi-Fi, pertaining mainly to specific encryptions and codes, but over all the service is very secure.
WiMax, on the other hand, is more of a broad range network. The service functions very similarly to cell phone towers, except that instead of broadcasting frequencies for people to have good phone service, it broadcasts Internet. Therefore, radio and other specifically constructed towers are used, since radio frequencies are the main form of Internet wave transmitted. Because of this, it provides mobile broadband to a much larger area up to 20 or 30 miles - while providing continued high-speed connections. With the service, people can access the Internet through their computers or smart phones wherever it is provided, granted that they pay to use it. You can even use the Internet in mid-travel at high speeds! Some reports indicate that an individual could be traveling up to 75 MPH and still be able to access the service.
With regards to security, it seems that the service is as, if not more secure, than Wi-Fi. Since it is basically a provider of wireless Internet to the masses, it would have to be secure if a whole city was accessing it at the same time.
