WiFi is a technology that uses radio waves to provide network connectivity and to transmit information across a network.
Sending data from a computer to the internet
The computer should include a wireless adapter that will translate data sent into a radio signal. This same signal will be transmitted, via an antenna, to a decoder known as the router. Once decoded, the data will be sent to the Internet through a wired Ethernet connection.
Receiving data from the internet
As the wireless network works as a two-way traffic, the data received from the internet will also pass through the router to be coded into a radio signal that will be received by the computer’s wireless adapter.
A WiFi connection is established using a wireless adapter to create hotspots.
The term hotspot is used to define an area where WiFi access is available. It can either be through a closed wireless network at home or in public places.
Source: CCM