When it comes to the new connectivity options available to computer, netbooks, cell phones, and a host of other devices, many people use what’s available, but don’t really understand the differences between the various types of technologies on the market. One clear example of this involves the difference between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Both are forms of mobile technology, but each differs from the other in important ways. To better understand these differences, here is a brief explanation of each and a look at the differences between these two important technologies.
Wi-Fi
The name of a popular wireless networking technology that uses radio waves to provide wireless high-speed Internet and network connections.
Wi-Fi is simply a shortened way to refer to Wireless Fidelity. Devices that use this technology all conform to specific standards that are governed by various industry guidelines set by an Alliance devoted to maintaining compatibility standards.
There are four Wi-Fi standards that are currently on the market, including 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, and draft 802.11n.
802.11a – 54Mbps/5GHz
802.11b – 11Mpbs/2.4GHz
802.11g – 54Mbps/2.4GHz
802.11n – up to 270Mbps/ 2.4 or 5GHz
The Wireless-N (802.11n) is able to provide network access that can reach speeds as high as 270 Megabits each and every second. For anyone who has ever downloaded content at speeds far slower than that, it is easy to understand just how fast that is. In general, most Wi-Fi connections involve so-called hot spots from which the wireless signal is pulled. Depending upon the strength of the signal, you may be able to get a connection at distances of one hundred yards or so.
Almost all netbooks also include built-in antennas for wireless networking so that you can access wireless hot spots. Most Wi-Fi antennas use the 802.11g standard, but the faster 802.11n is becoming increasingly common. Note that you’ll need a compatible 802.11n wireless router to get the faster throughput.
Bluetooth
On the other hand, Bluetooth technology – often cited as a major advantage in many mobile devices – has a much more limited range. In most cases, you should be within about ten yards or less of the device with which you wish to interface.
Bluetooth technology enables you connect computers, input devices, mobile phones, and handheld devices to each other over short distances. Bluetooth uses radio waves (in the 2.4 GHz range), and is designed to be a secure and inexpensive way of connecting and exchanging information between devices without the necessity of using connecting cables.
Bluetooth Core Specification:
Version 4.0 Low Energy, adopted December 2009
Version 3.0 + High Speed (HS) – 24 Mbps, adopted April 2009
Version 2.1 + Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) – 3Mbps, adopted July, 2007
Version 2.0 + Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) – 3Mbps, adopted November, 2004
Bluetooth is not as common in wireless laptops and network connections, but still has a place with many laptops and netbooks. Most built-in Bluetooth netbooks on the market come with Bluetooth 2.1+ EDR support. However, you can purchase a Bluetooth USB adapter to add Bluetooth wireless functionality to your netbook.
For some who prefer to avoid having cables strewn throughout their homes or offices, this is an attractive option. Still, Bluetooth is nowhere near as universal in its use and applications as its Wi-Fi rival has become. How long it may be before manufacturers decide to push the Bluetooth technology with greater vigor is anybody’s guess.
So which is better?
The truth is that, at present, they both have their place, and there is little overlap between the two. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (wireless networking) are both radio technologies, but they differ in the frequencies and protocols that they use. Bluetooth runs at a lower speed and power than Wi-Fi. They don’t talk to each other – in other words you can’t get a device with Bluetooth to communicate to a device that only supports Wi-Fi.
Due to the lack of knowledge about Bluetooth capability most manufacturers have been somewhat hesitant about incorporating the technology into all of their many devices. With time and better education as to the benefits of Bluetooth that may change. For now, however, the standard for wireless connectivity and high speed network access remains Wi-Fi. For those who seek a more streamlined way to configure their home and office networks, however, both can have their advantages when used in conjunction with one another.
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