There are several limitations associated with Wi-Fi technology:
- Range: Wi-Fi signals have a limited range, typically between 30 to 100 feet indoors and even less outdoors. Walls and other obstacles can further reduce this range.
- Interference: Wi-Fi networks can suffer from interference caused by other electronic devices, such as microwaves, cordless phones, and neighboring Wi-Fi networks. This can lead to slower speeds and connectivity issues.
- Bandwidth Limits: Each Wi-Fi network has a maximum bandwidth that can be shared among all connected devices. When multiple devices are connected, the bandwidth available for each device is divided, potentially slowing down the internet speed.
- Security Vulnerabilities: Wi-Fi networks, particularly those that are not secured with strong passwords, can be susceptible to unauthorized access and attacks.
- Signal Degradation: Physical obstructions (like walls, furniture, etc.) and distance from the router can cause signal degradation, affecting overall performance.
- Congestion: In densely populated areas, many Wi-Fi networks can interfere with each other, leading to congestion and decreased performance.
- Device Compatibility: Not all devices support the same Wi-Fi standards (e.g., 802.11n, 802.11ac), which can limit performance when older devices are connected to a modern network.
- Latency: Wi-Fi connections can introduce latency compared to wired connections, which may affect activities such as online gaming or video conferencing.
Understanding these limitations can help in setting up a more effective Wi-Fi network and selecting the right equipment.
