VOIP and other great uses for Wi-FI

Wi-Fi internet connections have changed the way we live our lives and spend our time online. Only a few years ago, we were shackled to our desks or wired laptop PCs when we wanted to access the Internet. However, the development of wireless internet technology has

VOIP

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) is more than just a cool-sounding acronym - it is a means for placing and receiving phone calls without using a landline or even a major wireless cell phone carrier such as Verizon or AT&T. VOIP allows anyone who has a Wi-Fi enabled cell phone to use services such as Skype whenever they are in range of a connection. These VOIP carriers offer inexpensive calling around the world - with FREE service when communicating with other people who have the same plan or use the same company's service.

Wi-Fi has helped VOIP grow, as people are now able to take advantage of the service without having to be near their PC while using a compatible headset.

PRODUCTIVITY

Dragging around an Ethernet cable for your laptop and searching for a hard-line connection to the Internet was a daunting task. Now, individuals who can track down an Internet "hot spot" can take advantage of Wi-Fi connection from almost anywhere. The growing number of Wi-Fi signals around the United States has been a boon to student, businesspeople and anyone who needs to work online when they are away from their home or office.

Companies such as T-Mobile revolutionized this industry by offering Wi-Fi hot spots in coffee shops and airports around the country for a small fee. Since that time, however, entire cities have sponsored free Wi-Fi access in their busiest areas, thus allowing anyone to pop open their laptop and get to work when and where they like.

GAMING

Wi-Fi connectivity has helped fuel growth in the Internet gaming industry as well. Individuals can now log on Wi-Fi signals almost anywhere and compete in the latest games using their PC or even next-generation portable consoles such as the Nintendo DS or the Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP).

The enhanced speed of Wi-Fi network signals have allowed gamers to play complex, graphically-advanced games with little or no "lag" that can negatively affect the experience. Most games now come with a significant multiplayer element because of the ease in which people can log on and start playing with others around the world.

GPS

Wi-Fi signals can turn any phone into a GPS device. By accessing wireless signals, satellites are able to track the location of a phone and provide directions, maps and other crucial information to the traveler. There are even real-time traffic reports available for those who want to avoid snarls in larger metropolitan areas.

PARENTING

Believe it or not, Wi-Fi has helped parents keep better track of their children as well. It is not uncommon for parents to place a Wi-Fi based GPS device in the cars of their teenagers so they know where they are at all times and that they stay safe when away from the home.