What Does Wifi Stand For

If you're on the Internet a lot, you've probably wondered: "What does WiFi stand for?"  This is a common thought when it comes to yet another computer-related term.  Here we look at what WiFi stands for and related topics/ideas.

What does WiFi stand for?  The answer to this question isn't actually that simple.  The name is a play on words, as it is widely believed, with HiFi - or high fidelity.  Thus, WiFi suggest wireless fidelity.  A brand consulting firm in 1999 came up with WiFi as it needed something more catchy than the technical description for what WiFi was - "IEEE 802.11 Direct Sequence"  There are some documents that use wireless fidelity, but there seems to be no word on how "official" this term is in relationship to the technology.  Technically speaking, WiFi is simply the trademarked term for the technology, though the suggestion and history is intact.

What is WiFi?  WiFi is simply the technology that allows you to connect to the Internet without any wired connection  It uses 802.11 standards, by any type of network, to connect your computer to the host network for Internet access.  The host, or the access point, broadcasts the wireless signal - which is why you go to the local coffese shop for Internet access.  This is what it means when WiFi is advertised by a business, in order for customers to use the network for Internet access.

How can you access WiFi?  While any notebook is the most common method, any Internet-ready device can make use of WiFi.  Smart phones, video game consoles, and other devices can take advantage of WiFI to connect to the Internet.