Wi-Fi Direct

Current Wi-Fi Technology

Wi-Fi is a connectivity technology including wireless local area network (WLAN) based on the IEEE 802.11 standards, device to device connectivity [such as Wi-Fi Peer to Peer AKA Wi-Fi Direct], and a range of technologies that support PAN, LAN and even WAN connections.

A wireless local area network (WLAN) links two or more devices using some wireless distribution method (typically spread-spectrum or OFDM radio), and usually providing a connection through an access point to the wider internet. This gives users the mobility to move around within a local coverage area and still be connected to the network.

Future Wi-Fi Direct

This new technology will allow the Wi-Fi Direct enabled devices to connect directly to each other anytime, anywhere.

It's much like Bluetooth except that it promises typical Wi-Fi range (up to 200 metres) and bandwidth (up to 250 mbps) much higher than what Bluetooth technology offers.

Moreover, the devices have a quick set-up mechanism, follow the latest security protocols and can easily connect to existing Wi-Fi networks.

The Wi-Fi users worldwide can use single-technology solution to transfer content and share applications quickly and easily among devices, even when a Wi-Fi access point isn't available.

Security Issues

The Wi-Fi Direct's entry into the market will present new opportunities for application developers. But such kind of range and speed can be easily misused.

This technology poses a security risk because if just one device in a group is compromised, almost all the devices in the group are at risk too.