Breaking down broadband and Wi-Fi myths, this blog explains exactly what broadband and Wi-Fi are and why they are so different. Covering everything from speed, reliability, and signal strength, Excitel unveils what you can expect from each service and how to get the best online experience. By using Wi-Fi, nearby devices can exchange data through radio waves. It is the worldwide used computer network used in offices, schools, colleges, restaurants, stations, etc.
What is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is high-speed network connectivity without any use of cables. The three main elements of this wireless network are router, antenna, and radio frequency. When a TV, smartphone, tablet, or computer is used to access Wi-Fi, it uses radio waves to transport data from another wireless network. Other wireless devices connect to the wireless networks by using wireless Access Points (AP).
What is broadband?
Broadband is a high-speed internet connectivity that offers uninterrupted internet service. This provides an internet connection through a telephone line. There are further wireless broadband options, like satellite, 4G, and 5G LTE. Every connection uses a unique frequency that offers a unique range and internet speed.
Difference between Wi-Fi and broadband
To help you understand the difference, refer to our guide:
| Wi-Fi | Broadband
|
| Wi-Fi is wireless connectivity that uses radio waves to provide an internet connection. | Broadband is open connectivity in which a high-speed internet connection is always available. |
| It has great portability. | It has fewer portability features. |
| You may face more network blocking. | You are likely to face less network blocking. |
| It can be expensive. | It is more affordable. |
| Wi-Fi relies on the original devices that produce the internet. | Broadband doesn’t rely on the original devices; it can provide higher internet connectivity. |
| It connects devices to home and business networks. | It connects those networks to the internet. |
| 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n are four major types of Wi-Fi technology. | DSL, cable, fibre optic, and satellite are four common forms of broadband. |
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What affects Wi-Fi signal strength?
Wi-Fi uses radio frequencies to send signals to different devices, using Gigahertz (GHz) to send and receive data. Generally, the radio signals used are not particularly strong, which is why Wi-Fi signals don’t travel very far. This is where Wi-Fi extenders and mesh systems come in handy.
What affects Wi-Fi speeds?
Wi-Fi allows you to access the internet from multiple devices without being connected to the router with a cable. But because of this, the speeds you get through Wi-Fi can fluctuate but with Excitel our internet speed is uninterrupted. However, there are a few things you could try to increase your Wi-Fi speeds.
What can I do to boost Wi-Fi speeds?
If you want to maximise the speeds from your broadband, the best way to do this is through an ethernet connection, this would give you the ultimate bandwidth your broadband offers. If using an ethernet cable is not practical for you there are several different things you can do to increase your Wi-Fi speeds. Excitel’s top 5 recommendations to improve Wi-Fi are:
- Choosing Excitel’s Wi-Fi plans
- Router location
- Turn off your Wi-Fi from time to time
- Switch to a different Wi-Fi channel
- Use latest devices
Hopefully, you’re more informed now about everything to do with broadband vs Wi-Fi! Next time you have an issue watching your favourite box set, you’ll know if it’s your Wi-Fi playing up or an issue with your broadband. If you’re looking for a new Wi-Fi deal, why not head over to Excitel’ and check out their range of Wi-Fi plans. Find the one that’s best for you. Excitel offers ultrafast internet speed, so you’ll know you’re getting the best of the best.
