Wi-Fi

Person typing on a laptop with Wi-Fi logo overlay

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Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that allows devices like computers, smartphones and other equipment to connect to the internet without the need for cables.

What Does Wi-Fi Stand For?

Wi-Fi is not an acronym and doesn’t stand for anything. It is a brand name created by the marketing agency Interbrand. The term was created because it is easier to remember than “IEE 802.11b Direct Sequence” which is the technical name. The Wi-Fi trademark is owned by the the Wi-Fi Alliance trade association.

How does Wi-Fi work?

Wi-Fi works by transmitting radio waves which allows computers, smartphones and other devices to connect wirelessly to the internet. Wi-Fi routers and other devices have antennas that send and receive signals in specific frequency ranges. They communicate by breaking data into packets which are sent between the device and the router.

Is it ”Wi-Fi” or “WiFi”?

The most widely accepted spelling is “Wi-Fi” which is used in the Microsoft Style Guide and the macOs Dictionary. The spellings “wifi” (all lowercase) and WiFi (no hyphen) are also used sometimes but are considered less formal or correct.

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