What’s the Difference Between Wi-Fi and the Internet?

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Learn the difference between Wi-Fi and the internet, what they are, and how they’re used

Written by Travis Boylls

Last Updated: July 5, 2023 Fact Checked

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The Difference Between the Internet and Wi-Fi

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What is the Internet?

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What is Wi-Fi?

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Advantages and Disadvantages to Wi-Fi

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Other Ways Of Connecting To the Internet

Do you wonder what the difference is between the internet and Wi-Fi? The two terms are often used interchangeably. You often need to connect to Wi-Fi in order to access the Internet. However, the two are not the same. The internet is a global network of connected devices. Wi-Fi is just a means of connecting to that network. This wikiHow article explains the difference between Wi-Fi and the internet and how they are used.

Things You Should Know

The Internet is a global network of computers and electronic devices that are able to transfer information and data to and from one another.
Wi-Fi is a means of connecting a device to the Internet wirelessly using a radio antenna.
You can connect to the Internet using other means besides Wi-Fi; such as an ethernet cable or mobile data connection.

Section 1 of 5:

The Difference Between the Internet and Wi-Fi

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The Internet allows users of a variety of electronic devices to connect and exchange information and data. The Internet spans the entire globe. Devices connected to the Internet include computers, smartphones, tablets, servers, modems, routers, and more recently, smart devices such as TVs and appliances. Wi-Fi is one of a few ways an Internet-capable device can connect to the Internet. Wi-Fi works by transmitting short-range radio frequencies over a short distance. Electronic devices can connect to a Wi-Fi receiver and transmit internet data over radio waves.

Section 2 of 5:

What is the Internet?

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The internet is a global network of electronic devices transmitting and receiving data and information. Most users connect to the Internet using a device such as a computer, laptop, smartphone, tablet, or smart device. These devices are connected to a nearby router, that provides internet access to all The router is connected to a modem which is connected to the larger internet. An internet service provider (ISP) transfers the data over long distances until it is received by another modem. A router then routes the data to the device that is intended to receive it. ^{[1]
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- What are servers? While most users access the internet using a smartphone, tablet, or computer, much of the information that is accessed on the internet is stored on a special type of computer called a server. Servers are dedicated computers or hardware designed to provide a service. When you check your email or social media, visit a website, watch a movie over a streaming service, or communicate with someone over an instant messenger, the data you are receiving is generally stored on a server. ^{[2]
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- What is a local area network? When multiple devices are connected to a single router, this creates a small network called a "Local Area Network" or LAN.
- Are modems and routers the same thing? Modems and routers are technically two different devices. However, there are two-in-one devices that function as both a modem and a router.
- How is data transferred over a long distance? Internet service providers are able to transmit data over long distances using a combination of underground cables, phone lines, satellites, radio towers, and even underwater cables that sit at the bottom of the ocean and carry data between continents.
- What are internet protocols? The Internet uses a set of protocols called Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) to transmit data and information. These protocols create a basic set of rules that all internet-capable devices must follow in order to communicate with each other. These protocols give each internet-connected device a unique identifier known as an IP address. These devices convert data and information into electronic signals called "packets" which can be sent over the internet.

Section 3 of 5:

What is Wi-Fi?

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Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that allows electronic devices to connect to the internet and to each other. Wi-Fi uses short-range radio waves to connect devices to the internet . Wi-Fi is transmitted using a wireless router connected to a modem, which intern is connected to the internet. Devices with a Wi-Fi receiver can connect to the wireless router to access the internet over Wi-Fi. This creates a local area network of devices that are connected to the internet via the Wi-Fi router. The router passes the data they transmit to the modem, which is connected to the internet. ^{[3]
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- What is the range of Wi-Fi? Wi-Fi generally covers a small distance of fewer than 150 feet or 45 meters. This makes Wi-Fi ideal for providing internet to your home or business. Many small businesses, such as coffee shops, and hotels use Wi-Fi to provide internet to their customers while they are at the location.
- What is the difference between 2.4Ghz vs 5Ghz? Most newer wireless routers are dual-band, meaning they can provide Wi-Fi using two different radio frequencies, which are 2.4 Ghz and 5Ghz . 5Ghz frequencies can provide faster and more reliable internet but cover a smaller distance. 2.4 GHz provides slower and less reliable internet but covers a longer distance.
- Can Wi-Fi pass through walls? Wi-Fi can pass through walls pretty easily, however they may reduce the range and strength of your Wi-Fi signal. Metal is especially effective at absorbing Wi-Fi. Other nearby electronic devices can also interfere with Wi-Fi. ^{[4]
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- Is Wi-Fi the same as a mobile data? No. Wi-Fi is transmitted via a wireless router. Mobile data is transmitted via a cellular tower. Wi-Fi covers a small area, whereas mobile data covers a large area. With mobile data, you can receive internet using your cell phone's cellular service. ^{[5]
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