subject: The latest on wireless networking, Wi-Fi hotspots [print this page] One of the main developments brought about by development in the information and communication technology is Wi-Fi hotspot. In a professional term, Wi-Fi also known as wireless fidelity can be defined as a wireless local area network component that is based on IEEE 802.11 standards. Its main function is to enable PCs using the device to connect to the internet or a wireless local area network without the need of a physical connection, i.e. cable via a wireless router (a network interconnectivity device that links two different LANs). Assess to wireless area network using Wi-Fi can either be open, i.e. anyone can use the network or closed, i.e. password authorization is required.
Hotspots have been as a result of Wi-Fi development where access to the internet has been extended as a mean of covering the gap let by Ethernet Local Area Networks that requires cable connection thus restricting access. Users in hotspot zones are provided with access to the internet via a wireless router that acts as an uplink to the internet through an internet service provider. In order to access the internet in a hotspot zone, you need to have either a laptop or a cell phone that is Wi-Fi enabled. Whereas, this was a luxury for a few in the past, demand and competition has seen laptop manufacturers include Wi-Fi as a network connectivity option.
The setup of Wi-Fi hotspot requires the installation of an access point, e.g. wireless router that connects to the internet via broadband. Public areas where you are likely to find Wi-Fi hotspot are hospitals, supermarkets, air ports, coffee shops, bookstores, museums and libraries among other government buildings. Nevertheless, due to the rapid development of internet technology most governments have plans to have cities covered by hotspots to enable the millions of people living in those areas have an easy access to the internet, wherever they are.
Wi-Fi hotspots can be classified into two main classes, i.e. free Wi-Fi hotspots and commercial hotspots. Free hotspots allow connection to the internet via public network. The only lacking thing in this type of Wi-Fi network connection is that there is no control whatsoever on the use and access of the wireless router.
In closed public network hotspot zones, a control standard, i.e. hotspot management system is utilized to manage the hotspot connection. The Wi-Fi router in this type of network is installed with an application program that enables the owner to manage and control the amount of bandwidth available to users in the network at any given time. Commercial Wi-Fi unlike Free Wi-Fi is revenue based and requires those intending to use it to make some form of payments. This type of network can be characterized by login screen that reroutes users to an authentication and payment screen and unlimited access to web contents. Internet activities such as checking and replying to email, web surfing, online shopping, online banking and file download are the same just as in a cabled local area network. Nevertheless, the range of operation is limited to about 60 meters for indoors and 90 meters while in outdoors from the nearest access point.
