What is Wireless? – Definition, Functions, Types, And More

Wireless

Many areas handle technology concepts differently; one of them is computing, which is very extensive and rich in technological terms.

One of the most heard and least understood terms is Wireless’s concept, which may have different interpretations depending on the knowledge you handle.

Therefore, in this article, we will see a little what this concept means in computing. But, we anticipate that it is a type of Internet connection, so we will also see the benefits of

Definition Wireless

The word Wireless originates from the English language and refers to any communication between two devices without the need for a cable to establish it. Its meaning translates to cordless or wireless.

This word in computing is commonly used for Wi-Fi or [wireless] LAN connections, but the truth is that it covers much more than we think. Due to its electromagnetic nature,[wireless] applies to all communication types that do not require any physical means to function.

So we can say that almost any computer and mobile use this technology. Also included in this is GPS or geolocation equipment.

Computer hardware accessories such as a keyboard, mouse, web cameras, microphones, among others, apply in the same way. We can also add the remote controls for gates, doors, televisions, and more to this list.

How Does A Wireless or Wireless Connection Work?

A wireless connection or Wireless network works by transmitting information with electromagnetic waves between different network nodes. The connection points where information is received and transmitted are called ports. There are three primary waves when it comes to a wireless connection.

We are going to know a little more in-depth what are these types of waves with which a network of this type works:

Terrestrial microwaves

They work with frequencies from 1 to 300 GHz, and as their name implies, they are terrestrial or trailing. These can cover large radii of kilometres but require access points to exist over great distances so that there is no interference.

Satellite Microwaves

This type of wave allows the connection between several ground stations, but before the signal goes from the receiver to the transmitter, it rises to the satellite. Then it descends at the receiving station or port.

Infrared

These waves range from 300 GHz to 384 THz; they are the least common since they cannot cross large spaces for connection and present problems with obstacles.

Because a Wireless connection lacks physical means for connection, except the transmitter and receiver of the network, we can observe that electromagnetic waves can only travel and transmit data through antennas.

What Are All The Types Of Wireless Networks Implemented So Far?

Wireless networks are classified according to coverage capacity and we can find four that are the most implemented:

WPAN (Wireless Personal Area Network)

WPAN is the shortest known [wireless] connection with a connection distance of no more than 10 meters. It should be noted that all Bluetooth connections work with this protocol.

It is used to transfer small data and at high speeds, it is very common to see it on mobile phones, mice, keyboards, and [wireless] printers.

 WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)

The widespread Wi-Fi has a great range covering up to more than 15 kilometers in radius. It works through network adapters and access points in computers, mobiles, and routers.

WMAN (Wireless Metropolitan Area Network)

It works worldwide with microwaves and is much more powerful than Wi-Fi in terms of range and bandwidth.

WWAN (Wireless Area Network Wireless Wide)

It is the network technology that mobiles use to transfer data. Known as Universal Mobile Telecommunications Systems or by its acronym UMTS, and includes all GPRS, EDGE, GSM, HSPA, 3G, and 4G connections.