What’s the Difference between Wireless Internet and Wireless Networking?

Some people who do not know any better might assume that wireless Internet and wireless networking are the same thing. After all, both of these terms have the word "wireless" in them. However, while related, they are actually two entirely separate entities. The first of these refers to the actual signal that is sent between your WISP (an acronym for Wireless Internet Service Provider) and your CPE, which is the communications equipment that is mounted to your roof. The CPE is made up of three parts: an antenna, a radio, and cables.



Wireless networking more or less refers to what is then done with this wireless signal. Your system’s wireless router plays an important role in this. A router is an electronic device that is used to bring together various computer networks. It does this by reading the address information on each network’s data packet. Data is gleaned from this process is then transmitted to the coinciding end station. These devices are considered to offer a higher level of functionality than bridges, which are other devices that have the sole purpose of uniting dissimilar networks.



A wireless router includes four ports for wires. By plugging the proper cords into these ports, you can connect your computer to the router directly. This is done to avoid having to transmit signals via airwaves. In a typical wireless network setup, there is usually one computer that is connected in this way. Any additional laptops or desktops on top of this that are using the same wireless Internet network will usually do so with the help of an internal or external Internet card or network adapter. The first of these tends to be used in conjunction with laptops, while the latter is used with desktops. External wireless modems are often hooked up to your computer through the USB port.



One of the many perks of using a wireless Internet network is the ease by which they are set up. Because the process does not depend on any cable or wires, installation is very simple and straightforward. In addition to user-friendliness, another thing that wireless networks offer that wired connections do not is portability. A single network can provide coverage to an entire home or office, meaning that you can roam about while maintaining your signal, much in the same way as you might move about the house with a cordless phone. As long as you stay within range of the base or the router, you are good to go.



Of course, no technology is perfect, and despite all its benefits, wireless Internet is not without its drawbacks, as well. One common disadvantage of wireless networks is the fact that they are susceptible to interference. This is because they operate on radio frequencies. Obstacles like thick walls, large metal objects, and other electronic devices that are located too close to the router can all get in the way of signal transmission. This is why you are more likely to get a stronger signal if you are in the same room as and in close proximity of your network’s router.



Find out more about wireless Internet by contacting a CLEARWIRELESSINTERNET provider near you today!