WiFi is now a preferred medium of communications. Like any technology, WiFi was born out of a need and a vision.
Who invented WiFi?
WiFi was invented in Nieuwegein, the Netherlands in 1991 by NCR Corporation/AT&T (later on known as Lucent & Agere Systems). It was intended to be used for the company’s cashier systems under the name WaveLAN and with speeds of 1 to 2 Mbps. NCR engineer Victor Hayes and Bell Labs’ Bruce Tuch approached the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and designed the IEEE 802.11 standards. In 1999, six companies--Intersil, 3Com, Nokia, Aironet (since purchased by Cisco), Symbol, and Lucent--got together to create the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA). The technology was eventually given a more consumer-friendly brand called “WiFi.” WiFi is now a trademark of the WiFi Alliance and is the term used as a synonym of IEEE 802.11 technology.
Modern uses of WiFi
Wireless technology is a modern alternative to networks that use cables. A wireless network transmits data by microwave and other radio signals. The most common use is to connect laptop users who travel from location to location. Another common use is for mobile networks that connect via satellite. WiFi devices are installed in most personal computers, desktops, laptops, video game consoles, MP3 players, PDAs (personal digital assistant), mobile phones, printers, and other peripherals. Homes, offices, schools, airports, hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants offer WiFi access to the Internet, which has become a rich source of information and a venue for communication.
WiFi has now become less expensive and more accessible. Most homes and businesses have found the important role that WiFi plays. In fact, it has now become a standard means of communication in the modern world.
