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Wireless Hot Spots in Worthington, MN
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Episode 16: Wireless and Wireless
Episode Air Date: June 05, 2009
Episode Summary
We've had some questions in the shop from customers asking, and frankly, being quite confused, about what Wireless really is. Today we'll be hashing through all that on TechDish.
Wireless vs. Wireless—what's the big difference?
When we're talking Wireless, we're actually talking about two different types of a wireless signal that your computer can use: Wireless Networking (Wi-Fi) and Wireless Broadband.
What is Wi-Fi?
Wireless Networking (Wi-Fi) is a term referring to a relatively small wireless network, served through wireless routers, or other devices that can broadcast an IEEE 802.11 standard signal (what's this?). If you're a laptop user, you've probably seen these networks, as this is the type of network your built-in wireless networking card can connect to.
What is Wireless Broadband?
Currently, Wireless Broadband (WiBB) is a signal broadcast that is provided primarily by cell phone towers. However, Wireless Internet Service Providers use the same technology for rural areas. Connecting to a WiBB network requires a specialized PC or laptop card or USB device to pick up the signal from a broadcasting tower. Also, these are not "open" networks, so a subscription (or mobile data plan) is required to authenticate and get access to these signals before you can use them.
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