July 13, 2007
Why Wi-Fi has to change--or else
Arguably the most habit-changing and beloved networking innovation of our lifetime, Wi-Fi is a bubble threatening to burst under the weight of its own popularit. News.com's Selina Lo gives her perspective.
"... Yet as more and more content is poured into Wi-Fi networks, the technology is now struggling to keep pace.
Wi-Fi interference comes from a myriad of things such as neighboring Wi-Fi networks, microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices, cordless phones, even treadmills. This interference causes Wi-Fi to thrash, forcing down the data rate to the point where the only thing you can do is cruise the Web.
Recent technical innovations, however, are proving to be effective in working around interference. Similar to an Internet router that picks the best path for every packet by monitoring the performance of all its available paths, a smart beam steering system monitors the radio frequency (RF) environment and adapts the direction and the shape of the transmit beam to avoid interference.
... Propelled by devices like the iPhone, which effectively put a computer in your hand, Wi-Fi is poised to become the de facto onramp to all broadband wireless technologies at home, at work and in public venues. But Wi-Fi must move from a technology of convenience to a dependable and ubiquitous utility. Until then, it remains a prison of promises."
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