Different Types of Wi-Fi Networks
Most of us don't think much about the kinds of Wi-Fi networks we connect to, caring only that there's a data connection. If you're considering an upgrade of your home or office network, or want to add home automation, it helps to know a little about the different kinds of
Wi-Fi networks. In general, they can be distinguished by several characteristics: network structure, strength, and security.
Structure & Connections
How a Wi-Fi network is designed affects how devices connect to it.
- Infrastructure (LAN) — A wireless router and any Wireless Access Points (WAPs) connected to it by Ethernet cable to expand the network. Also called LAN (Local Area Network).
- Mesh — A mesh network involves a router and additional access points connected together wirelessly so the shared Wi-Fi signal is expanded for broader coverage.
Both setups, when installed correctly, can offer seamless connectivity throughout your home or office, though mesh networks can sometimes be a little slower as data moves in a less streamlined way through the network.
Signal Strength
Wireless signals can vary in performance based primarily on the incoming bandwidth from your provider, network structure, and the Wi-Fi standards your equipment supports. Evolving from the original Wi-Fi standard, called 802.11, improvements have added a letter, so you may be familiar with 802.11g or 802.11n. These standards determine, in part, the frequencies used for Wi-Fi transmission (generally 2.4GHz or 5GHz) and the speed and range for the Wi-Fi signal.
Security & Encryption
While it's important to have a strong Wi-Fi password for network security, the 802.11 standards also specify the type of encryption used to protect data traveling over a Wi-Fi network. From the original WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) through the newest WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3), wireless network security has grown alongside devices as Wi-Fi expands throughout our lives.
At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer home and office networks and automation to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Contact us today to explore Wi-Fi networking or any of our other services and solutions.





