WiFi hotspots are internet access points that allow you to connect to a WiFi network using your computer, smartphone or another device while away from your home or office network. Show
Many cities, businesses, and other organizations have begun offering WiFi hotspots for public use. These hotspots help people access faster internet connections than what is often available cellular networks. So, how does a WiFi hotspot work? Are they safe? Get all the information you need below. How does a WiFi hotspot work?A public WiFi hotspot works, from the user's end, much like a WiFi network that you might find in your home or office. These hotspots transmit an internet connection using special wireless equipment, to create a WiFi network to which you can connect a tablet, smartphone, computer, or other device. The range, power, speed, and price of a WiFi hotspot may vary, based on where you are. But the overall idea behind a WiFi hotspot is exactly the same as a home-based WiFi network, and you can connect to and use a WiFi hotspot just like you would use a home WiFi network. Types of WiFi hotspotsThough WiFi hotspots are largely similar, there are a few different types available, and they have some distinct differences. Public WiFi hotspotsA public WiFi hotspot is exactly what it sounds like. These hotspots are usually, though not always, free to use. Places like coffee shops, libraries and retail stores may offer a free, public WiFi connection for patrons. In some cities, municipal governments or ISPs may also provide free public WiFi connections in some areas. These are usually free, but in some areas, like hotels and airports, you may have to pay to access a public WiFi hotspot. Mobile WiFi hotspotsDid you know that you can use your iPhone or many Android smartphones as a WiFi hotspot? By turning on this feature, your phone uses its cellular data to create a WiFi hotspot. You can then connect a computer or other device to this hotspot to access the internet. You can also buy purpose-built mobile WiFi hotspots, which are designed to turn a cellular data connection into a strong WiFi connection. People who travel a lot for work or who need constant access to a reliable WiFi connection can use one of these devices, which can be purchased from most cell phone companies. Pre-paid hotspotsPrepaid WiFi hotspots are similar to mobile hotspots, but set limits on how much data you can transmit over the connection. You prepay for a set amount of data, and then when you run out, you can automatically pay for more. This is a good way to get a mobile hotspot without a long-term cellular data subscription. Are WiFi hotspots safe?Private WiFi hotspots, such as mobile and prepaid versions, are completely safe. When it comes to public hotspots, however, the security methods used to protect your data can vary widely. As a rule, it’s recommended that you not do anything over a public WiFi hotspot that could compromise secure personal data, such as checking out on shopping sites (providing payment information), using banking apps, or accessing medical records. For other activities like web browsing, checking email, and using social media, though, public WiFi hotspots tend to be safe. How to find WiFi hotspotsThe easiest way to find WiFi hotspot is to open up your computer or tablet and check your available networks list. In many public areas, you’ll find that there are a lot of open, public WiFi hotspots you can connect to, free of charge. You can also look for WiFi hotspots provided by your own ISP. How to set up a WiFi hotspotWondering how to setup a WiFi hotspot for yourself? The easiest way is to use your Android or iOS smartphone as a mobile hotspot. Read this guide from Google to give it a try on Android, or read this guide from Apple to try it on your iPhone or iPad. CenturyLink wirelessAt CenturyLink, we provide high-quality secure WiFi to commercial and residential customers. To see what internet speeds are available near you, click the link below. focusNode Didn't know it? Knew it? Embed Code - If you would like this activity on your web page, copy the script below and paste it into
your web page. Communications and Networks
What is the wireless network that provides Internet connections to mobile computers and devices?Wireless LAN
A wireless local area network (WLAN) links two or more devices over a short distance using a wireless distribution method, usually providing a connection through an access point for internet access.
What is a WiHotspot. A hotspot is a physical location where you can obtain wireless Internet access using a wireless local area network (WLAN) with a router connected to an Internet service provider.
Are devices that provide a common central connection point for nodes on the network?Two types of devices that provide a common central connection point for nodes on the network are a hub and a switch. All data that transfers from one node to another passes through the hub/switch.
What do you call the collection of computers and devices connected together via communication devices and transmission media?A network is a collection of computers and devices connected together via communications devices and transmission media.
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