Wi-Fi, short for Wireless Fidelity, is a type of wireless networking technology that allows electronic devices to connect to the internet or to communicate with one another through a wireless local area network (LAN) using radio waves. Because of this, devices like smartphones, laptops, TV’s, etc. are able to access the internet and communicate with other devices without being restricted by cables or wires. These devices do however have to remain within a certain range of a Wi-Fi router or access point.
Li-Fi, short for Light Fidelity, is a wireless communication technology that uses light to transmit data, instead of traditional radio frequencies, explains Oledcomm (2024). It works by modulating the intensity of light sources, such as LED bulbs, to transmit data at high speeds.
While Li-Fi and Wi-Fi are both wireless communication technologies, they differ in several key ways:
Speed:
When compared to traditional Wi-Fi, Li-Fi can potentially deliver data speeds up to 100 times faster, reaching speeds of several gigabits per second (Gbps). This makes Li-Fi ideal for applications that are dependant on high-speed data transmission.
Security:
Li-Fi offers enhanced security when compared to Wi-Fi. Since light signals used in Li-Fi can’t penetrate through walls, as they are restricted to the area where the light source occurs, it is more difficult for hackers to intercept data when compared to Wi-Fi signals which can be intercepted from a distance.
Energy Efficiency:
Li-Fi is more energy-efficient than Wi-Fi. This is because the LED bulbs used for data transmission can also be used for illumination, thus resulting in reduced energy consumption when compared to traditional Wi-Fi routers.
Interference:
Li-Fi is less prone to interference from other wireless devices. This is because the light signals used in Li-Fi don’t interfere with radio frequencies used by Wi-Fi and other wireless technologies. This makes Li-Fi the more reliable technology in environments that have high levels of wireless interference.
Applications:
Li-Fi has the potential to be used in various applications like; indoor positioning, underwater communication and environments where radio frequency interference is a concern.
Range:
One limitation of Li-Fi is its limited range when compared to Wi-Fi. Li-Fi signals are confined to the area where the light source exists. This means that users are very likely to experience connectivity issues when they move out of the direct line of sight of the light source.
Overall, Li-Fi offers higher data speeds, enhanced security and energy efficiency compared to Wi-Fi, but it may have limitations in terms of range and coverage. Both technologies do however have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between Li-Fi and Wi-Fi is likely to depend on each users’ specific requirements.
References:
Oledcomm (2024) Lifi vs WIFI: Understanding core differences Available at: https://www.oledcomm.net/blog/lifi-vs-wifi/
