ICT 0417 - Networks and the Effects of Using Them

Objective: Know and understand connecting a device to a network using Wi-Fi.

Connecting to a Network Using Wi-Fi

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to the internet and other networks without the need for physical cables. It uses radio waves to transmit data.

Steps to Connect to a Wi-Fi Network

1. Enable Wi-Fi on your device: This is usually done through the device's settings menu. Look for a Wi-Fi option and toggle it on.
2. Select a network: Your device will scan for available Wi-Fi networks. Choose the network you want to connect to from the list.
3. Enter the password (if required): Many Wi-Fi networks are secured with a password. You will need to enter the password to connect.
4. Connect: Once the password is entered (if necessary), click the "Connect" button.
5. Confirmation: Your device will indicate that it is connected to the network, often by displaying a Wi-Fi icon in the notification bar.

Understanding Wi-Fi Settings

Most devices allow you to access advanced Wi-Fi settings. These settings may include:

• Network Name (SSID): The name of the Wi-Fi network.
• Security Type: The type of security used to protect the network (e.g., WPA2, WPA3, Open).
• IP Address: A unique numerical address assigned to your device on the network.
• DNS Servers: Servers that translate domain names (e.g., google.com) into IP addresses.

Table: Common Wi-Fi Security Types

Security Type	Description	Security Level
Open	No password required. Anyone can connect.	Lowest
WEP	Older security protocol. Less secure.	Low
WPA/WPA2	More secure than WEP. Requires a password.	Medium
WPA3	The latest and most secure Wi-Fi security protocol. Requires a password.	High

Effects of Using Networks

Benefits of Using Networks

Using networks, particularly Wi-Fi, offers numerous benefits:

• Internet Access: Enables access to the internet for browsing, communication, and information.
• File Sharing: Allows users to easily share files with other devices on the network.
• Communication: Facilitates communication through email, instant messaging, and video conferencing.
• Cloud Services: Provides access to cloud-based storage and applications.
• Entertainment: Supports streaming of music, videos, and online gaming.

Potential Risks of Using Networks

While beneficial, using networks also comes with potential risks:

• Security Threats: Networks can be vulnerable to security threats such as hacking, malware, and data breaches.
• Privacy Concerns: Network activity can be monitored, raising privacy concerns.
• Bandwidth Issues: Excessive network usage can lead to slow internet speeds for all users on the network.
• Network Congestion: Too many devices connected to a network can cause congestion and slow performance.

Network Effects on Device Performance

Connecting to a network can significantly impact a device's performance:

• Data Transfer Speed: Wi-Fi connection speed affects how quickly data can be transferred. Faster Wi-Fi standards (e.g., Wi-Fi 6) offer higher speeds.
• Battery Life: Using Wi-Fi consumes battery power.
• Device Compatibility: Devices must support the same Wi-Fi standards for seamless connectivity.
• Network Stability: A stable network connection is crucial for consistent performance.