Getting to know the terms and technical glossary for an app feature can help you better understand it.
SSID (Service Set Identifier): The name of a wireless network that identifies it from other networks.
WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2): A security protocol used to secure wireless networks, offering improved encryption and security compared to its predecessor, WPA.
Encryption: The process of converting data into a code to prevent unauthorized access, commonly used in Wi-Fi networks for data security.
Access Point: A device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network using Wi-Fi, serving as a bridge between the two.
Network Adapter: A hardware component that allows a computer or device to connect to a network, including Wi-Fi networks.
MAC Address (Media Access Control Address): A unique identifier assigned to a network interface for communication on the physical network segment.
IP Address (Internet Protocol Address): A numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): A network management protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network.
Channel: A specific frequency within the Wi-Fi spectrum that a wireless network uses for communication, helping to reduce interference.
Signal Strength: The measure of the strength of a wireless signal received by a device, impacting the quality of the connection.
Router: A device that routes data between devices on a network and can connect multiple devices to the Internet via a modem.
Windows Firewall: A security feature in Windows that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
Network Profile: A collection of settings and configurations for connecting to a network, including security settings and connection types.
Wi-Fi Direct: A technology that allows Wi-Fi devices to connect directly to each other without needing an intermediary access point.
Network Security Key: A password or passphrase used to secure access to a wireless network, ensuring that only authorized users can connect.
Interference: Disruption of the Wi-Fi signal caused by physical barriers or other electronic devices operating on similar frequencies.
Range: The distance over which a Wi-Fi signal can be effectively transmitted, typically influenced by obstacles and the technology used.
Windows Network Troubleshooter: A built-in Windows tool that helps diagnose and resolve network connectivity issues.
QoS (Quality of Service): A networking feature that prioritizes certain types of traffic over others to ensure optimal performance for critical applications.
Firmware: The software programmed into a device’s hardware, providing low-level control for the device's specific functions, including Wi-Fi routers and adapters.