Many companies are going for wireless networks to not only save costs by avoiding wired equipment, but also to provide more convenience to their employees. These days the employees are also being given wireless mobile PCs which are portable enough to be carried wherever they go, making them productive anytime and anywhere.
About WiFi
To start working wirelessly, there are certain things you need to know that would also be very helpful to you. First of all, you need to understand the basics of a wireless connection. WiFi or a wireless technology is a way to connect your computer to the network without the need of network cables, but by using radio frequency. This Technology requires you to be within the wireless network range for being able to connect your computer. Going further, you should be able to distinguish between the three types of wireless networks.
WLAN or Wireless Local Area Network: These are wireless networks the range of which can be anywhere from one single room to an entire campus, and use radio waves.
WPAN or Wireless Personal Area Network: Having a range of not more than 40 feet, these are short range networks that use Bluetooth technology, and are usually used for interconnecting compatible devices near a central location like a desk.
WWAN or Wireless Wide Area Networks: With the help of WWANS that are created through mobile phone signals, you can stay connected even when you are away from other forms of network access.
Getting started
In order to go wireless, the most basic thing you need to have is a wireless PC card, which either needs to be inserted in the PC card slot and requires an antenna, or is usually built-in. Apart from this, a wireless mouse and keyboard is also essential, in case you are not working in office, which provide more freedom and flexibility.
Also, whenever you are travelling, it is always good to research the available hotspots in the particular area.
For connecting to a wireless network, you can right click on the network link on the bottom right corner of the screen on the taskbar, which resembles a server. From the list of options, click on the one that says ‘Connect to a network’, that will show you a list of available networks in the vicinity. An alternative procedure could be by clicking on the ‘start’ button and clicking on ‘Connect to’.
A wireless network is flexible, saves a lot of your time and also enables collaboration through file sharing among your peers. However, despite the many advantages that it offers, a wireless network is often prone to hackers and forgers who can steal important stuff from your computer. It is especially true in cases of public hotspots which leave their network security turned off for making them easily accessible to users.
It is your responsibility to keep it safe by password protecting it at every level. Create passwords for not only the network but also for your PC, so that only you can access the home screen.
