Wireless Adapters Key Terms

Know the basics of wireless adapters terminology for Internet connections

Wireless adapters are great tools for those who want Internet access on the go. Wireless adapters work for laptops and desktop computers to provide a wireless Internet connection wherever the computer is located. Wireless adapters also come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit all types of situations at work, at home or on the road. Knowing what type of connection you need will help you decide on the best wireless adapter product to meet your needs.

 

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is a term used by many people to refer to a wireless Internet or network connection, or WLAN. But Wi-Fi is actually a trademark name for the Wi-Fi Alliance for products meeting IEEE standards. Not all wireless products will have the Wi-Fi certification.
Try: The Wi-Fi Alliance offers information on WLAN and the certification process for Wi-Fi products.

Wireless router

A wireless router is another device that gives a computer Internet access through wireless LAN connections. Routers can work with wireless and wired networks to provide Internet access to multiple computers on a single network.
Try: I Need 2 Know offers information on how a wireless router works and the different types of wireless routers available.

USB wireless adapters

A USB wireless adapter is a network adapter that plugs into a computer's USB port for instant network access, whether it's for connecting to the Internet or to link to other computers.
Try: 3Com offers an overview of features, benefits and other specifications for USB wireless adapters.

Connection speed

Connection speed is the rate at which you can connect to the Internet or a wireless network. Wireless adapters can offer a variety of connection speeds, with 54 Mbps (megabytes per second) being the industry standard.
Try: PC Tipsbox offers information on how to speed up wireless connections depending on the type of computer and type of wireless adapter being used.

WPA2 network

A WPA or WPA2 network is a password-protected, secured network certified by the Wi-Fi Alliance. WPA2 is the more recent version of this type of network. These were designed to keep intruders from using your network connection, otherwise known as "piggybacking."
Try: Ars Technica provides an article on securing your wireless network, which includes information on WPA and WPA2 network connections.

Wireless modem

A wireless cable, or DSL modem, is another tool used with wireless adapters. For a wireless adapter to work, a signal is sent from the modem (which is connected a cable or DSL service) to the adapter, giving a specific computer Internet access.
Try: Broadband Info offers an overview of wireless cable modem technology and a comparison of different wireless modem models.

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