The difference between Internet and Wi-Fi


The difference between Internet and Wi-Fi

An Internet Service Provider (ISP), provides you with an internet connection and service, while Wi-Fi is a wireless connectivity tool that connects you to a local network that is connected to the internet.


Wi-Fi and internet are words often used interchangeably, however what people don’t realise is that they are actually two different services. With just a little bit of background on each, you’ll be able to differentiate between the two.


Wi-Fi: A wireless transmission facility, allowing electronic devices to be connected, to transmit data such as internet services or communicate with one another without the use of wires. Communication happens using radio waves and signals picked up from the devices.


Internet: A global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities, consisting of interconnected networks that use Internet Protocol to link devices worldwide.


With this understanding and insight into what defines each, we can now move to really understanding the difference.


The internet uses a language called Internet Protocol that allows devices all over the world, to send and receive data and information between each other. Without this language, the devices would not be able to understand each other - similar to the concept of two people speaking two different languages, you are connecting, but not on a level that is understandable to both parties. 


Wi-Fi on the other hand, is considered more of a type of radio signal that allows devices to connect to each other wirelessly, to be able to transfer data. Compared to physical network cables which used to be the only way to connect devices, Wi-Fi is a convenient way to connect multiple devices in an area network, which enables the devices to ‘speak’ to each other. Generally, a Wi-Fi network is made possible through a router, which then allows all devices connected to the network to share data and participate in other local activities that require no internet connection.


Where Wi-Fi connects devices locally, the internet connects devices from around the world. Simply put, the internet connects networks together using millions of routers. While you have full control of your Wi-Fi network, you don’t have much control over an internet connection - this is up to the ISP, who you pay a monthly fee to, for an internet connection of a certain speed to match your needs.


By having a good understanding of the difference between Wi-Fi and the internet, you will be better informed when trying to solve any issues with your home or business connections and you will also have a better idea of what equipment you need to purchase to set yourself up an internet connection.


If we sum up the difference between Wi-Fi and internet into one sentence, Wi-Fi serves as a gateway for devices to be able to share information, while internet allows devices all over the world to communicate with each other.