1. © 2006 Consumer Jungle Wi-Fi Computing

2. © 2006 Consumer Jungle What is Wi-Fi? Term is short for Wireless Fidelity –Technical standard for short-range data transmissions. –Editions of the standard include: 802.11b 802.11a 802.11g

3. © 2006 Consumer Jungle How Does Wi-Fi Work? Carries two-way radio signals between a fixed base station and a laptop computer. Average range: –Outside – 350 ft –Inside – 80 ft Works like a cordless phone with base station but connected to the Internet.

4. © 2006 Consumer Jungle Hardware Needed For Wi-Fi Some computers come with hardware. Wireless router Base Station Plug-In card

5. © 2006 Consumer Jungle Where can you use Wi-Fi? A hotspot is a place to connect to a Wi-Fi network. –Airports –Coffee Shops –Hotels –Parks Find hotspots at WiFi411: www.wifi411.com

6. © 2006 Consumer Jungle Fon Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi connection around the world where foneros provide access You provide access to your wi-fi connection Others allow you access Linus users offer free Wi-Fi Bill users charge for Wi-Fi www.en.fon.com

7. © 2006 Consumer Jungle How to Access Hotspots Computer will show you available wi-fi networks and their speeds. –Some require username & password Browse the Internet

8. © 2006 Consumer Jungle Is Wi-Fi Secure? Assume that anyone around can eavesdrop on your connection Never reveal personal or financial information. Websites that use Secure-Sockets- Layer technology (SSL) are secure.

9. © 2006 Consumer Jungle How to Minimize Wi-Fi Risk Only connect to Wi-Fi networks that are encrypted –Very few public spots are Only connect to Wi-Fi networks that require authentication –Username & password