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A wireless computer is a device that uses radio waves to connect to a network or transmit data, instead of physical cables. This technology enables convenient access to the internet and allows for communication between devices without being tethered to a network hub, which can be achieved through built-in hardware or a wireless adapter. Key terms include WLAN (wireless local area network) and SSID (the network name).

Key terms and concepts

Wireless: A system that uses radio signals or other electromagnetic waves to transmit data, rather than a physical wire.

WLAN: Stands for Wireless Local Area Network, a common type of wireless network.

Wi-Fi: A popular brand of wireless networking technology, though the term is often used to refer to any WLAN.

SSID: Service Set Identifier, which is the name you see when you look for available wireless networks.

Wireless Adapter: A piece of hardware, often a USB dongle, that allows a computer to connect to a wireless network if it doesn't have built-in wireless capability.

Wireless Access Point (AP): A device that transmits data between wireless clients (like laptops) and a wired network.

Mesh Network: A network setup where multiple access points connect to each other to extend the network's coverage area, acting as a single, distributed network.