WiFi and Wireless Internet – The Difference

WiFi and Wireless Internet are both meant to transmit data without the use of any wire, but most people tend to think they are the same thing. Surprise, these are different from each other, as they use different types of technologies for transmission of data.

Now that we have got you wondering about which is better for you, we can say they are generally used for multiple things. Their efficiency for you depends on several factors. Let us break down these factors so you can make a better and informed choice for yourself.

Let us start by knowing –

What is WiFi?

WiFi refers to the network which transmits the data from your router to your devices such as smartphones, laptops, and TVs in your homes. We all have used it, if not at homes then at public places. Although it is very important and allows for the transmission of faster speeds, there are a couple of things to be mindful of. First, it cannot be used without an internet connection, and second  – it is considered very unsafe.

Generally, a WiFi is set up to be used up in a small area, including your homes or business shops. Its usage is typically local and within a specified range, which is generally around 20-25 meters. But unlike the general perception, WiFI does not create the internet. It needs an internet connection, and it just transmits the data through the routes to the devices.

Regarding its safety, public WiFi networks or the ones without a password are tricky to use. It allows hackers to get into your devices and even steal your data. Therefore it is of great importance to only join and use the WiFi networks that you can trust.

Are WiFi and Internet Service the same?

Regardless of the common perception out there, the answer is no. No, WiFI and Internet service are not the same. The people connect their devices with WiFi to use the internet, and they end up thinking that WiFi is the internet.

But the reality is far from it. WiFI is just a connection to the internet. It in itself requires a pre-existing internet connection to work. The WiFi router is connected with the internet connection by the internet provider, and that is transmitted over to devices like smartphones, laptops, and TVs through WiFI. The pre-existing internet connection can be through a cable service or through Wireless Internet.

Let us now know a bit more about Wireless Internet, also known as Fixed Point Internet.

What is Fixed-Point or Wireless Internet?

Fixed Point Internet or Wireless Internet refers to an internet service in which a special sensor receives radio signals to establish an internet connection. The major difference between this and a cable connection is of course that the data is delivered wirelessly. This is a great option for less accessible or rural areas, as it is difficult to run fiber or optical wires there.

It provides a similar connection and speeds like the cabled internet. Despite being different from each other, WiFi and Wireless Internet can work together and provide you seamless connectivity to the internet. The WiFi Router can pick wireless signals, and you can use those with the WiFi if you want.

The Fixed Point wireless connection needs a near-line of sight and a transmission tower. Once established, it can provide coverage to specific areas. This is a great option for rural areas since it requires less infrastructure and investment and hence can be easily set up to bring internet connectivity to residents of such areas.

It can be said that once a Fixed point wireless tower is established, then the wireless internet can be virtually made available anywhere in its vicinity. It provides a reliable connection with good speeds, which makes it better than satellite internet services.

How is Fixed Point Internet different from Satellite Internet?

In Fixed Point internet, internet signals are transmitted from one tower to another. Whereas in satellite internet, the signals are bounced off from a satellite. Since the signal comes from as far as 22,000 miles away, the reliability of this type of internet is not very good.

On the other hand, rain or heavy wind can disrupt signals as well. Wireless Internet faces no such issues as the towers are in close vicinity. As such, it’s a better choice.

Conclusion

We have seen that WiFi and Wireless Internet are completely different. Although you can use them together, Wireless Internet can be used on its own as well. WiFi has a lot of security issues, but Wireless Internet is much safer and reliable.

WISP provides a great Fixed Point Internet connection, which is best for residential as well as commercial use in rural areas. It is secure, reliable, and can be used with or without WiFI. You can choose this to get amazing plans, speeds, connectivity, and security.