Wireless networks operate using radio waves to transfer data between computers, rather than using physical wires. When computers transmit data, they use binary code consisting of ones and zeros, which can be transmitted using different types of beeps that are too high-pitched for humans to hear. This is similar to Morse code, which uses dots and dashes to represent letters in the alphabet.
To transmit and receive data quickly, wireless networks use high frequencies, with most networks operating at 2.4 GHz. These high frequencies allow more data to be sent per second, but also mean that the range of wireless networks is limited.
Additionally, wireless networks use a technique called “frequency hopping,” where they switch between dozens of frequencies to avoid interference from other radio signals.
To share internet access between multiple computers, wireless networks use access points, which contain radios capable of communicating with around 100 computers simultaneously.
These access points follow the 802.11 standards set by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers to ensure that devices from different manufacturers can communicate with each other.
Despite its complexity, wireless networking is designed to be user-friendly and automated. Wireless devices and software handle the technical details of frequency and data transfer, so users don’t need to worry about these details. In summary, wireless networking is a simple and convenient way to connect computers without using wires.
