Over the past 20 years, Wi-Fi has become an indispensable part of our daily routines, keeping our devices connected to our home networks, to each other, and to the internet. However, as dependent as we might have become on this technology, many individuals are not aware of the unexpected beginnings of Wi-Fi.
Have you ever thought about how this wireless tech works and who played a vital role in its invention? The history behind Wi-Fi is as captivating as it is surprising!
The Actress Who Changed the World
Contrary to common belief, the origins of Wi-Fi can be traced back not to a solitary scientist in a laboratory, but to the groundbreaking work of Hedy Lamarr, an Austrian-American actress and inventor.
Lamarr’s pioneering contributions formed the foundation for modern communication systems, including Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth. Despite this, Vic Hayes is often credited as the “father of Wi-Fi,” thanks to his innovative efforts that shaped the landscape of wireless connectivity.
Vic Hayes and the Invention of Wi-Fi
Vic Hayes played a crucial role in the creation of Wi-Fi technology, thus earning him the distinction of being its inventor. His trailblazing efforts completely transformed the way we communicate and connect wirelessly. As the technology advanced, subsequent generations, such as Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), emerged to accommodate the growing demands of the digital age.
Nowadays, Wi-Fi has advanced to the point where it connects our devices to local home networks, but also links them to the internet.
Understanding Wi-Fi Bands
Wi-Fi can use various frequency bands, in order to send and receive data. Each frequency has different advantages and disadvantages.
The two most frequently utilized bands are 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, with most modern routers supporting them. The newer 6 GHz frequency is currently only used in very specific cases due to the fact that it is compatible exclusively with new, premium devices.
2.4 GHz
The 2.4 GHz frequency has been used for a long time and is better at transmitting data over large distances. However, being the standard basic frequency also means that it will encounter more interference than other frequencies and also offer slower speeds.
5 GHz
The 5 GHz frequency is currently the fastest Wi-Fi frequency that still offers compatibility with most current-gen devices. The fact that it is only compatible with newer devices also means that it encounters less interference than the 2.4 GHz band.
It is also worth keeping in mind that 5 GHz has a shorter range than other frequencies, so it might not be all that useful for office buildings or for large homes.
The Rise of Wi-Fi 6E (6 GHz)
Wi-Fi 6E is the latest development in terms of Wi-Fi technology. As its name implies, it operates in the 6 GHz frequency band. This breakthrough promises the fastest speeds and minimal interference, making it an exciting prospect for the future of wireless connectivity. However, Wi-Fi 6E also comes with major disadvantages, at least for the time being. The new frequency only offers very limited device compatibility and range. This may change in the future, though, as more, newer devices are designed around it.
Wi-Fi Is Shaping Our Future
Wi-Fi has come a long way since its inception, thanks to the pioneering efforts of visionaries like Hedy Lamarr and Vic Hayes.
As we continue to witness groundbreaking advancements in Wi-Fi technology, with Wi-Fi 6E at the forefront, it’s evident that the future of wireless connectivity is full of untapped potential.
Embracing these innovations not only keeps us seamlessly connected in our ever-changing digital landscape but also opens up new avenues for communication, ensuring that we stay ahead of the curve.
