Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi uses both single carrier direct-sequence spread spectrum radio technology part of the larger family of spread spectrum systems and multi-carrier OFDM Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing radio technology. Wi-Fi performance decreases roughly quadratic ally as distance increases at constant radiation levels.

The regulations for unlicensed spread spectrum enabled the development of Wi-Fi, its onetime competitor Homer, Bluetooth, and many other products such as some types of cordless telephones. Wireless network bridges connect a wired network to a wireless network.

 This is different from an access point in the sense that an access point connects wireless devices to a wired network at the data-link layer. Range extenders can be strategically placed to elongate a signal area or allow for the signal area to reach around barriers such as those created in L-shaped corridors.

Two wireless bridges may be used to connect two wired networks over a wireless link, useful in situations where a wired connection may be unavailable, such as between two separate homes. Wireless range extenders or wireless repeaters can extend the range of an existing wireless network.