Glossary terms for networking

Bluetooth
A short-range RF (radio frequency) solution, typically between 10 centimeters and 10 meters, that operates in the 2.4-GHz frequency bandwidth. It allows portable devices such as laptops, cell phones, PC mice, keyboards and PDAs to communicate wirelessly.

Ethernet
An IEEE standard (IEEE-802) for computer data communications. A local area network used for connecting computers, workstations, printers, terminals and more within the same building. Ethernet operates over twisted wire, coaxial cable and RF. Mesh network: An infrastructure of networking devices designed to strengthen the transmission and reception of wireless signals throughout the home. Products designed to work on a mesh network send signals over multiple communications paths (the more products on the network, the more paths are formed).

Radio frequency (RF)
A frequency range between about 3 Hz and 300 Ghz that is used commonly now to send signals between remote controls and electronic devices without requiring a clear line of sight.

Router
A device that takes a block of data and forwards it to another destination in either a wired or wireless manner. Routers are often used to connect local area networks with a wireless area network to have wireless Internet capability.

Wi-Fi
Wireless fidelity allows for the connectivity of electronics devices along the 2.4-GHz or 5-GHz spectrum via a wireless access point (WAP). A single WAP in your home, for example, can allow your laptop computer to wirelessly connect to the Internet, or you can have a series of WAPs that form a "hot spot" where you can receive wireless Internet access, such as in certain city neighborhoods or your local restaurant.