WiFi Broadband Cable DSL Definitions
Since its introduction into the computer marketplace in the early 21st century, wireless network technology has become increasingly common.Whether you're looking to buy a new computer or are interested in setting up a wireless network, understanding WiFi broadband cable DSL definitions is essential. Since its introduction into the computer marketplace in the early 21st century, wireless network technology has become increasingly common. Today, the market for new computers is moving away from desktops and towards mobile networking devices like laptops, PDAs, and smart phones. As the world becomes less wired, the terminology of the wireless networking continues to expand. But how exactly does a router differ from a bridge, and what is VoIP anyway? The following information will serve as a solid foundation of information for the WiFi novice.
Hardware
- Wireless Access Point – A wireless access point, or WAP, is the keystone of any wireless network. The WAP is the source of the wireless signal that all wireless devices (laptops, WiFi enabled cell phones, PDAs, etc.) connect to the Internet through. Wireless access points are usually routers, and increasingly they also contain the cable modem. Only a few short years ago, a home wireless network typically needed a cable modem, a router, and a WAP. Internet providers are streamlining the process and providing customers with one piece of hardware that performs all three functions.
- Router – A router is a networking device that assigns IP addresses to other devices that allows them access to the Internet. Every device that connects to the Internet needs an IP address, which is literally the device's unique address on the Web that permits it to receive incoming data. Since there are so many devices online today, it would be impractical (if not impossible) to assign each and every device with a real IP address. This is where routers come into play. When you pay for Internet service from an ISP you are essentially paying for one IP address. This address is assigned to your router. The router then creates a mini network behind it that assigns internal "fake" IP addresses to all the computers, PDAs, etc. on your home network. The router amazingly keeps track of what data from the Internet is intended for which device on the internal network. Routers thereby allow multiple devices to access the Internet simultaneously through a single IP address. Even through the router and the cable modem may technically be in the same piece of equipment, the router theoretically sits between the cable modem and the internal network.
- Cable Modem – The cable modem is the proprietary device that your ISP requires its customers to have to communicate with their servers. The cable modem physically transmits data between the Internet and your internal network.
- Firewall – A firewall is typically a device or software program that analyzes incoming data and allows or disallows it based on how the firewall has been configured. Most wireless access points and routers also function as simple firewalls. By logging into your WAP or router as an administrator, you can configure the firewall features on the device. Some common functions of firewalls for home networks involve blocking particular domain names from sending data into your network. For example, if you and your family are diehard Boston Red Sox fans, you could technically block all traffic from nyyankees.com from entering your home.
- Bridge – Most routers can be configured to function as bridges. A bridge connects two networks together. One common application for bridging in the home WiFi environment is to extend the reach of a wireless network by placing a second wireless router at the edge of the main network's signal strength and using its bridging functionality to repeat the wireless signal and increase the overall coverage of the network.
Technical Term Related to WiFi
- Hot Spot – A hot spot is any area that provides wireless Internet access to devices that enter the area. Hot spots can be found at libraries, cafes, schools, universities, hospitals, restaurants, hotels, retail stores, and even some public parks. If a place you frequent regularly is not an Internet hot spot now, chances are it will be soon.
- Piggybacking – Piggybacking is the technical term for stealing, or commandeering, your neighbor’s wireless connection. Since many users set up their wireless networks with the default setting, their networks are open to anyone within reach to use to connect to the Internet. There are debates within the computer community over the ethics of piggybacking. Some see the practice as nothing more sinister than reading a newspaper that was left behind by another passenger on the subway. Others equate the practice to entering someone's home because they left the door unlocked.
- Encryption – To prevent piggybacking, you will need to configure your WAP to use some kind of encryption. One of the simplest types of encryption is MAC address. Every hardware device designed to connect to the Internet carries a unique hardware MAC address, and you can assign your WAP to only accept connections from MAC addresses registered with the WAP. Other types of encryption, arranged from least secure to most secure, are WEP, WPA, and 802.1x. Consult your WAP's documentation to determine how secure an encryption system your network requires.
- Voice Over IP – Voice over IP, or VoIP, is technology that carries a phone signal over the Internet. Companies like Skype and Vonage have been pioneers in the VoIP field and have provided users with free and greatly discounted long distance by connecting calls over the Internet. The downside to this technology is that it renders your home phone useless in the event your Internet connection goes down.
Other Resources
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