Do you ever find yourself mixing up WiFi and MiFi? You're not alone! Despite their similar-sounding names, WiFi and MiFi are distinct entities.
In this blog, we'll explore the definitions of WiFi and MiFi, as well as highlight their key disparities.
When you think of WiFi, you probably envision "wireless internet." However, WiFi itself isn't internet.
WiFi stands for wireless fidelity and is a wireless networking protocol based on IEEE 802.11 standards. It's the technology that enables smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other WiFi-enabled devices to connect to the internet without using cables.
In essence, WiFi-enabled devices connect wirelessly to a WiFi router or access point, which is then linked to an internet service provider. As long as you're within the coverage area of the router, you can stream and browse the internet from anywhere.
Without WiFi, internet access would still be possible, but only through ethernet cables.
WiFi is commonly found in homes, offices, cafes, airports, and various other public places.
MiFi is a compact, portable wireless router or hotspot device equipped with built-in WiFi technology. It utilizes your mobile carrier's LTE, 4G, or 5G network to establish an ad hoc WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network). This allows for internet connectivity on the go or in areas lacking traditional broadband infrastructure.
Unlike a traditional WiFi router, MiFi devices don't require a connection to an internet service provider. They only need cellular service. With a MiFi device, you can access the internet wherever there's a cellular signal available.
Without WiFi technology, mobile internet access wouldn't be feasible.
WiFi serves as a technology enabling wireless internet connectivity. It's integrated into various devices, including traditional internet routers, cellular routers, mobile hotspots, MiFis, smartphones, tablets, and more. A WiFi network can be established via an internet service provider or cellular network, depending on your WiFi access point.
MiFi represents a specific type of WiFi access point. With a diverse array of MiFi models available, you can select one that suits your requirements. These devices connect WiFi-enabled devices to the internet using the cellular network. Portable and convenient, they ensure connectivity even when you're away from your home WiFi network.
A MiFi requires a cellular signal to function. Weak cell reception can affect data speeds for all connected devices.
Contrary to popular belief, WiFi is not an acronym. It does not stand for Wireless Fidelity, Wireless Fiber, or any other specific phrase.
Before settling on a name for the wireless networking standard, it needed to be easily remembered and understood. "IEEE 802.11" didn't quite fit the bill. The branding agency Interbrand suggested "WiFi" because its similarity to "HiFi" (High Fidelity) resonated with consumers and aided in comprehension.
In short, WiFi simply stands for WiFi.
The term "MiFi" was coined by Novatel Wireless (now Inseego) in 2009 for their line of portable WiFi devices.
Today, "MiFi" is often used as a catch-all term for various portable hotspot devices, including cellular routers and mobile hotspots.
In comparison to traditional WiFi networks provided by an Internet Service Provider (ISP), MiFi devices, relying on cellular networks, may exhibit slower speeds. Factors such as terrain, distance to cell towers, network congestion, weather conditions, and building materials can impact the signal received by MiFi devices. Consequently, performance may vary as you change locations.
However, with the advent of 5G technology, MiFi speeds have the potential to match or even surpass those of traditional broadband internet. It's worth noting, though, that ultra-fast 5G coverage is not yet ubiquitous.
Public WiFi hotspots, while convenient, pose security risks as they can be easily accessed by hackers. Since data is typically transmitted without encryption on public networks, hackers can intercept and obtain personal information.
In contrast, MiFi creates a personal WiFi network, restricting access and transmitting encrypted data, thus enhancing security.
While wireless broadband internet remains the norm for homes and businesses, not everyone has access to it. In some regions, broadband internet prices may be prohibitively high.
MiFi serves as a viable alternative for home internet. It offers affordability and operates wherever there is cellular signal. However, it may not be suitable for every household due to limitations on data, speed, and bandwidth.
The performance of MiFi devices hinges on the strength of your cellular signal. In areas with robust signal coverage, connected devices will enjoy superior and faster connections. Conversely, weak signal areas yield poorer performance.
Whether weak signal results from distant cell towers or building materials obstructing signal transmission, a cell phone booster can enhance MiFi performance. These devices amplify the outside cell signal, improving reception and transmission inside your home, office, or vehicle.
WiFi technology is integrated into access points such as WiFi routers, cellular hotspots, and internet gateways, as well as client devices including laptops, tablets, watches, and appliances.
Wireless internet connectivity is established through a WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) generated by an access point. Data is transmitted wirelessly across frequencies like 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and in some cases, 6 GHz. The range and speed of the wireless network depend on router capabilities, signal strength, and other variables.
All WiFi-enabled client devices within the coverage area of the access point can access social media, stream videos, and perform other online activities without the need for physical connections. Extending WiFi coverage is possible with Mesh Networks or Long-Range Networks, ensuring continuous connectivity.
MiFi devices combine a cellular modem and a WiFi router within a single unit. The modem establishes an internet connection using 5G, 4G, or LTE data networks.
The WiFi router component of a MiFi device creates a WiFi network using SIM cards, rather than relying on fixed broadband like traditional WiFi routers.
Some MiFi models feature rechargeable batteries, providing hours of usage without a constant power source. Others require a continuous power supply to remain operational. The supported devices, speed, and coverage area depend on the capabilities of the MiFi device and the cellular provider.
We can't say MiFi is better than WiFi because they are not the same. WiFi is a technology, while MiFi is a cellular device with built-in WiFi.
Comparing MiFi to broadband WiFi is a different story. If broadband internet infrastructure is lacking in your area or you need mobile internet, MiFi wins. However, broadband WiFi is faster and offers much greater capacity than MiFi.
MiFi Benefits:
1. Access to a private internet connection wherever there's cellular signal.
2. No reliance on public WiFi networks.
3. Suitable for serving as home internet in areas lacking broadband infrastructure.
4. Portable, with some models small enough to fit in your pocket.
5. Capable of supporting multiple devices simultaneously.
6. Enables connectivity for travelers abroad with a SIM card from a local carrier.
7. Preserves your phone's battery life.
MiFi Limitations:
1. WiFi coverage and speed are contingent upon cellular signal strength.
2. Internet speed for all connected devices may decrease with multiple simultaneous connections.
3. Cellular signal is essential for MiFi devices to function.
4. Comes with data usage limits.
Yes, it can! Many individuals residing in rural areas with limited broadband coverage utilize MiFi as their primary home internet solution. However, it's important to note that MiFi cellular data plans might offer lower speeds and data caps compared to wired home internet services. Consequently, it may not be ideal for heavy video streaming or gaming requirements.
