Connectivity

Connectivity

1. 4G & 5G

   • This stands for 4th and 5th generation mobile phone technology. It provides faster speeds of internet connection
   • It can be used on the move
   • Can be expensive to download data
   • A device can access the internet without the need for a wi-fi router, as data is transferred through the phone network, instead of through the broadband (internet) network.

2. Wired

   • A wired connection allows internet access directly from the access point to a device via an ethernet cable.
   • Include a much quicker and more reliable connection than wireless. It is also one of the most secure methods as data cannot be hacked.
   • Cabling can be expensive
   • Users are limited on how far away from the access point they can move, and not all devices, eg smartphones and tablets allow a wired connection.

3. Bluetooth

   • This is a wireless method of exchanging data over short distances. It uses a special radio frequency to transmit data. It is often used to connect devices with peripherals such as hands free sets.
   • It is very cheap to use. It also uses minimal power
   • Bluetooth has a very limited range and is not very secure, so can be easily hacked.

4. Wifi hotspot

   • These are portable mobile routers that can be used to set up an internet connection using 3G and 4G signals from a local network. Often found in public places such as shopping centres, hotels and cafes. You can also use your smartphone as a hotspot.
   • Very useful if you are on the move and need internet access.
   • Depending on what you are doing, the speed of the hotspot can be slow and they are notoriously insecure so not recommended for confidential work

5. Wifi

   • The ability to connect to the internet without the need for cables. Wi-fi uses radio frequencies to connect to a router, which then allows the device to connect to the internet.
   • It allows users to move around and stay connected
   • The range of the connection is limited
   • Wi-fi can be made more secure through the use of a password, though it can still be hacked.