Module 3: Wireless and Mobile Networks Flashcards
Configure mobile device for wireless access.
_ is a low-power, shorter range wireless technology that is intended to replace wired connectivity for accessories such as speakers, headphones, and microphones.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth can also be used to connect a smartwatch to a smartphone. Because Bluetooth technology can be used to transmit both data and voice, it can be used to create small local networks. Bluetooth is wireless technology that allows devices to communicate over short distances. Multiple devices can be connected at the same time with Bluetooth.
_ transmitters and receivers located within the smartphone enable the phone to connect to local networks and the internet.
Wi-Fi
In order to receive and send data on a Wi-Fi network, the phone needs to be within the range of the signal from a wireless network access point. Wi-Fi networks are usually privately owned but often provide guest or public access hotspots. A hotspot is an area where Wi-Fi signals are available. Wi-Fi network connections on the phone are similar to the network connections on a laptop computer.
_ is a wireless communication technology that enables data to be exchanged by devices that are in very close proximity to each other, usually less than a few centimeters.
Near Field Communication (NFC)
For example, NFC can be used to connect a smartphone and a payment system. NFC uses electromagnetic fields to transmit data.
The _ uses satellites to transmit signals that cover the globe. The smartphone can receive these signals and calculate the phone’s location to an accuracy of within 10 meters.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
In addition to the GSM and 4G/5G transmitters and receivers, smartphones make connections in a variety of ways.
- GPS
- Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth
- NFC
Which of the following is a low-power, shorter range wireless technology that is intended to replace wired connectivity for accessories such as speakers or a mouse?
- GPS
- NFC
- Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi
Bluetooth
Which of the following is a wireless communication technology that enables a smartphone to communicate with a payment system within a few centimeters away?
- Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi
- NFC
- GPS
NFC
3.2.1 Mobile Devices and Wi-Fi
Mobile devices give us the freedom to work, learn, play, and communicate wherever we want. People using mobile devices do not need to be tied to a physical location to send and receive voice, video, and data communications. In addition, wireless facilities, such as internet cafes, are available in many countries. College campuses use wireless networks to allow students to sign up for classes, watch lectures, and submit assignments in areas where physical connections to the network are unavailable. With mobile devices becoming more powerful, many tasks that needed to be performed on large computers connected to physical networks can now be completed using mobile devices on wireless networks.
Almost all mobile devices are capable of connecting to Wi-Fi networks. It is advisable to connect to Wi-Fi networks when possible because data used over Wi-Fi does not count against the cellular data plan. Also, because Wi-Fi radios use less power than cellular radios, connecting to Wi-Fi networks conserves battery power. Like other Wi-Fi-enabled devices, it is important to use security when connecting to Wi-Fi networks. These precautions should be taken to protect Wi-Fi communications on mobile devices:
- Never send login or password information using unencrypted text (plaintext).
- Use a VPN connection when possible if you are sending sensitive data.
- Enable security on home networks.
- Use WPA2 or higher encryption for security.
Noted
Two of the most popular operating systems for mobile devices are _ and _. Each operating system has settings that enable you to configure your device to connect to wireless networks.
Android, Apple iOS
To connect an Android or iOS device when it is within the coverage range of a Wi-Fi network, turn on Wi-Fi and the device then searches for all available Wi-Fi networks and displays them in a list. Touch a Wi-Fi network in the list to connect. Enter a password if needed.
When a mobile device is out of the range of the Wi-Fi network, it attempts to connect to another Wi-Fi network in range. If no Wi-Fi networks are in range, the mobile device connects to the cellular data network. When Wi-Fi is on, it will automatically connect to any Wi-Fi network that it has connected to previously. If the network is new, the mobile device either displays a list of available networks that can be used or asks if it should connect to it.
If your mobile device does not prompt to connect to a Wi-Fi network, the _ may be turned off, or the device may not be set to connect automatically.
network SSID broadcast
Manually configure the Wi-Fi settings on the mobile device. Remember that SSIDs and passphrases must be typed exactly as entered on the wireless router setup or the device will not connect properly.
_ is the name assigned to a wireless network.
SSID
_ is what we normally use as the “wireless password”.
Passphrase
To connect to a Wi-Fi network manually on an Android device, follow these steps:
Step 1. Select Settings > Add network.
Step 2. Enter the network SSID.
Step 3. Touch Security and select a security type.
Step 4. Touch Password and enter the password.
Step 5. Touch Save.
Operating systems for mobile devices are updated frequently and may be customized by the device manufacturer. The commands listed above may not be exactly the same on your device. There are online manuals for every type of device which are usually accessible from the website of the manufacturer.
To connect to a Wi-Fi network manually on an iOS device, follow these steps:
Step 1. Select Settings > Wi-Fi > Other.
Step 2. Enter the network SSID.
Step 3. Touch Security and select a security type.
Step 4. Touch Other Network.
Step 5. Touch Password and enter the password.
Step 6. Touch Join.
Noted
Cellular data plans are offered by most cell phone carriers, but the bandwidth limitations and charges for usage vary widely by carrier, and by plan within carriers. As a result, many mobile device users only use their cellular data plans when Wi-Fi service is not available.
Android Cellular Data
To turn on or off cellular data on an Android device, as shown in the figure, use the following path:
Settings > touch More under Wireless and Networks > touch Mobile Networks > touch Data enabled
iOS Cellular Data
To turn on or off cellular data on an iOS device, as shown in the figure, use the following path:
Settings > Cellular Data > turn cellular data on or off
Noted
Mobile devices are preprogrammed to use a Wi-Fi network for internet if one is available and the device can connect to the access point and receive an IP address. If no Wi-Fi network is available, the device uses the cellular data capability if it is configured. Most of the time, transitions from one network to another are not obvious to the user. For example, as a mobile device moves from an area of 4G coverage to 3G coverage, the 4G radio shuts off and turns on the 3G radio. Connections are not lost during this transition.
Noted
3.2.6 Simple Connectivity with Bluetooth
Mobile devices connect using many different methods. Cellular and Wi-Fi can be difficult to configure, and require extra equipment such as towers and access points. Cable connections are not always practical when connecting headsets or speakers. Bluetooth technology provides a simple way for mobile devices to connect to each other and to wireless accessories. Bluetooth is wireless, automatic, and uses very little power, which helps conserve battery life. Up to eight Bluetooth devices can be connected together at any one time.
These are some examples of how devices use Bluetooth:
Hands-free headset - A small earpiece with a microphone can be used for making and receiving calls.
Keyboard or mouse - A keyboard or mouse can be connected to a mobile device to make input easier.
Stereo control - A mobile device can connect to a home or car stereo to play music.
Car speakerphone - A device that contains a speaker and a microphone can be used for making and receiving calls.
Tethering - A mobile device can connect to another mobile device or computer to share a network connection. Tethering can also be performed with a Wi-Fi connection or a cable connection such as USB.
Mobile speaker - Portable speakers can connect to mobile devices to provide high-quality audio without a stereo system.
Noted
3.2.7 Bluetooth Pairing
Bluetooth pairing occurs when two Bluetooth devices establish a connection to share resources. In order for the devices to pair, the Bluetooth radios are turned on, and one device begins searching for other devices. Other devices must be set to discoverable mode, also called visible, so that they can be detected. When a Bluetooth device is in discoverable mode, it transmits the following information when another Bluetooth device requests it:
- Name
- Bluetooth class
- Services that the device can use
- Technical information, such as the features or the Bluetooth specification that it supports
During the pairing process, a personal identification number (PIN) may be requested to authenticate the pairing process. The PIN is often a number, but can also be a numeric code or passkey. The PIN is stored using pairing services, so it does not have to be entered the next time the device tries to connect. This is convenient when using a headset with a smart phone, because they are paired automatically when the headset is turned on and within range.
Noted
To pair a Bluetooth device with an Android device, follow these steps:
Step 1. Follow the instructions for your device to place it in discoverable mode.
Step 2. Check the instructions for your device to find the connection PIN.
Step 3. Select Settings > Wireless and networks.
Step 4. Touch Bluetooth to turn it on.
Step 5. Touch the Bluetooth tab.
Step 6. Touch Scan for devices.
Step 7. Touch the discovered device to select it.
Step 8. Type the PIN.
Step 9. Touch the device name again to connect to it.
To pair a Bluetooth device with an iOS device, follow these steps:
Step 1. Follow the instructions for your device to place it in discoverable mode.
Step 2. Check the instructions for your device to find the connection PIN.
Step 3. Select Settings > Bluetooth.
Step 4. Touch Bluetooth to turn it on.
Step 5. Touch the discovered device to select it.
Step 6. Type the PIN.
Remember that mobile device operating systems are updated frequently. Always refer to the documentation of the manufacturer for your specific model device for the latest command reference.
Noted
3.3.1 What Did I Learn in this Module?
Wireless Networks
Mobile phones use radio waves to transmit voice signals to antennas mounted on towers located in specific geographic areas. When a telephone call is made, the voice signal is relayed from one tower to another tower until it is delivered to its destination. This type of network is used when you make a phone call to another mobile phone or to a wired telephone. It is also used to send text messages directly from the phone. The most common type of cellular telephone network is called a GSM network. The abbreviations 3G, 4G, 4G-LTE, and 5G are used to describe enhanced cell phone networks that are optimized for the fast transmission of data. Currently, 4G still dominates as the current mobile network used by most phones.
In addition to the GSM and 4G/5G transmitters and receivers, smartphones make connections in a variety of ways.
Wi-Fi transmitters and receivers located within the smartphone enable the phone to connect to local networks and the internet. Wi-Fi networks are usually privately owned but often provide guest or public access hotspots. A hotspot is an area where Wi-Fi signals are available.
Bluetooth is wireless technology that allows devices to communicate over short distances. Multiple devices can be connected at the same time with Bluetooth.
NFC is a wireless communication technology that enables data to be exchanged by devices that are in very close proximity to each other, usually less than a few centimeters.
Noted
Mobile Device Connectivity
Almost all mobile devices are capable of connecting to Wi-Fi networks. These precautions should be taken to protect Wi-Fi communications on mobile devices:
- Never send login or password information using unencrypted text (plaintext).
- Use a VPN connection when possible if you are sending sensitive data.
- Enable security on home networks.
- Use WPA2 or higher encryption for security.
Two of the most popular operating systems for mobile devices are Android and Apple iOS. Mobile devices are preprogrammed to use a Wi-Fi network for the internet if one is available, and the device can connect to the access point and receive an IP address. If no Wi-Fi network is available, the device uses the cellular data capability if it is configured.
Bluetooth technology provides a simple way for mobile devices to connect to each other and to wireless accessories. Bluetooth is wireless, automatic, and uses very little power, which helps conserve battery life. Some examples of devices that use Bluetooth include hands-free headsets, keyboards, a mouse, stereo controls, car speakerphones, and mobile speakers.
Bluetooth pairing occurs when two Bluetooth devices establish a connection to share resources. In order for the devices to pair, the Bluetooth radios are turned on, and one device begins searching for other devices. Other devices must be set to discoverable mode, also called visible, so that they can be detected.
When a Bluetooth device is in discoverable mode, it transmits the following information when another Bluetooth device requests it:
- Name
- Bluetooth class
- Services that the device can use
- Technical information, such as the features or the Bluetooth specification that it supports
- During the pairing process, a PIN may be requested to authenticate the pairing process.
Noted
