Frequently Asked Questions on Wireless Networking

Q. How do you pronounce WiFi?

A. WiFi is pronounced Wy-Fy as it does for home networking what Hi-Fi does for music.

Q. What is WiFi?

A. WiFi is the name for the IEEE 802.11abg wireless standard - click here for a full explanation.

Q. What is MIMO?

A. MIMO stands for Multiple Input Multiple Output and means that 2 or more antennae are used to transmit and receive the wireless signal. It is used by the .11n standard and by the WiMAX standard.

Q. How many wireless adaptors do I need?

A. Today most laptops and smart phones are shipped with WiFi built-in. You may need an adapter for each PC or laptop you wish to use around your home if they do not have built-in WiFi.

Q. I have heard that WEP security can be broken, is this true?

A. Yes but it has been superceded by WPA (Wireless Protected Access) and WPA2. Like all forms of security WEP has its weaknesses. To break the encryption the hacker needs to have the right software, a powerful laptop, be able to capture at least 10mins of data being transmitted (i.e. by parking outside your premises for a period of time) and know that you have a wireless network. Counter-measures include enabling WPA/WPA2 (Wireless Protected Access),a software firewall per PC, ensuring that sensitive folders are not shared, and turning off PCs overnight or when the premises are vacant.