WiFi Internet Hotspots

Internet surfing and online information exchange through e-mails have necessitated users to have easier and more convenient access. While broadbands allow for such access through a landline connection or through the use of USBs, these still pose an inconvenience and limited accessibility. The wireless network connection to the Internet, the IEEE 802.11 technology or commonly referred to as WiFi, is a preferred alternative. However, despite the advantages that WiFi offers, there are WiFi interferences that result in less than efficient connections.

Possible causes of WiFi interference

Many wireless technologies, other wireless local area networks (LANs), and electric devices cause WiFi interference. As WiFi depends on radio frequency (RF), interfering signals from other RF sources result in poor connection. Each 802.11 station only transmits packets when there is no other station transmitting. If another station happens to be sending a packet, the other stations will wait until the medium is free. In certain cases, even with RF interference, a WiFi station will automatically switch to a lower data rate, resulting in slower wireless applications. Devices that cause WiFi interference are portable phones, cordless phones, microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices (e.g., laptops and PDAs), wireless video cameras, outdoor microwave links, wireless game controllers, and fluorescent lights.

Dealing with WiFi interference issues

In order to minimize WiFi interferences, WiFi providers should undertake certain steps. Before installing a WiFi connection, know the other RF sources in the vicinity. Ensure that the area has strong wireless LAN signals. Tune access points to channels that avoid the frequencies of interfering signals. Or, deploy a WiFi connection along the 5 gigahertz band. Whenever possible, disallow or minimize the use of Bluetooth-enabled devices or microwave ovens within the area.

A WiFi user should be ready to accept that WiFi interferences can be experienced. However, the benefits of WiFi far outweighs the problems that come with it.

Many computer users are turning to WiFi because of its obvious benefits, most especially the possibility of moving around your home or office while remaining connected to your network or the Internet. Unfortunately, this ideal situation may turn out to be not so ideal because of the difficulties that are often encountered when going wireless.

Possible problems one might encounter when using WiFi

The advantage of not being tethered to the network comes with a price. One of the common problems with WiFi is the failure to connect due to obstructions and interference. Floors and walls can block the signal and create WiFi dead zones. Other possible glitches could be due to a conflict between the OS and the hardware and security problems from packet sniffers.

WiFi troubleshooting tips

If you are not getting a signal, the solution is to simply transfer to another area or you can move your WiFi antenna. If the problem persists, look for sources of interference, such as alarm systems, cordless phones, and microwave ovens. For OS problems, you will need to make sure that the system is set up to connect to the network. With regard to security, do no forget to apply the WPA patch and use this in combination with address filtering.

In conclusion, many problems may be encountered when using WiFi. However, with a little perseverance and patience, these can be remedied.