WLAN vs Wi-Fi: Definitions, Differences & Ways to Signal Improvement

WLAN vs Wi-Fi, what are the differences between them? When it comes to wireless internet, the terms WLAN and Wi-Fi are often used interchangeably. However, they are not exactly the same thing. In this article, we will discuss the differences between WLAN and Wi-Fi and how they affect your internet connection.

WLAN, a wireless local area network, is a computer network that allows devices to connect and communicate without using cables or wires. This type of network is particularly useful in limited areas such as homes, offices, and public hotspots. A variety of wireless technologies can be used to create a WLAN, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared.

Wi-Fi, which is short for Wireless Fidelity, is one of the most popular WLAN technologies. It enables devices to connect to a network wirelessly using radio waves. A wireless access point, also known as a router, is used to provide Wi-Fi connectivity to devices within its range. Wi-Fi networks are widely used in various settings, such as homes, offices, airports, coffee shops, and other public places.

WLAN vs Wi-Fi, now that we have a basic understanding of what they are, let's dive deeper into the differences between them.

Standards

As mentioned earlier, Wi-Fi is a trademarked name for a type of WLAN that uses specific wireless networking standards. These standards are set by the Wi-Fi Alliance and are designed to ensure interoperability between different devices. WLAN, on the other hand, does not have any specific standards and can use any wireless networking technology.

Range

Another key difference between WLAN and Wi-Fi is the range. WLAN typically has a smaller range compared to Wi-Fi. This is because WLAN is designed to connect devices within a limited area, such as a home or office, whereas Wi-Fi is designed to connect devices over a wider area, such as a campus or city.

Speed

Speed is another important factor when it comes to WLAN vs Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi typically offers faster speeds compared to WLAN. This is because Wi-Fi uses the latest wireless networking standards, which are designed to provide faster data transfer rates.

Security

When it comes to security, Wi-Fi is generally considered more secure compared to WLAN. This is because Wi-Fi uses advanced encryption standards to protect data transmitted over the network. WLAN, on the other hand, may use less secure encryption methods, making it more vulnerable to hacking and other security threats.

WLAN vs Wi-Fi: How They Affect Your Internet Connection

Interference

One of the primary factors that can affect your WLAN or Wi-Fi connection is interference. Interference occurs when signals from other electronic devices, such as microwaves or cordless phones, interfere with the wireless signal. This can result in slow internet speeds or dropped connections. To reduce interference, it is important to keep your router away from other electronic devices and to choose a channel on your router that is less congested.

Distance

Another factor that can affect your WLAN or Wi-Fi connection is the distance between your device and the router. The further away you are from the router, the weaker the signal will be, which can result in slow internet speeds or dropped connections. To improve your connection, you can try moving closer to the router or using a range extender to boost the signal.

Number of Devices

The number of devices connected to your WLAN or Wi-Fi network can also impact your internet connection. The more devices that are connected, the slower the internet speed will be for each device. This is because the bandwidth is shared between all connected devices. To improve performance, it is recommended to limit the number of devices connected to your network or to upgrade to a higher bandwidth plan.

Security

Security can also affect your WLAN or Wi-Fi connection. If your network is not secure, it can be vulnerable to unauthorized access, which can slow down your internet speed or result in data breaches. To protect your network, it is important to use strong passwords, enable encryption, and keep your software up to date.

Finally, if you are struggling with a weak Wi-Fi signal or dead spots in your home or office, the RG-EW1200G PRO Wireless Router is a recommended solution.

By using multiple access points, the system creates a seamless network that provides strong and reliable coverage throughout your space. The system's advanced technology, including beamforming and MU-MIMO, can help improve speed and performance, and the easy setup and management through a user-friendly app make it simple for anyone to use. Overall, the RG-EW1200G-PRO is a great option for anyone seeking to improve their Wi-Fi signal and coverage.