Module 3: Wireless and Mobile Networks

Introduction
3.0.2 What Will I Learn in this Module?

Module Title: Wireless and Mobile Networks

Module Objective: Configure mobile device for wireless access.

Topic Title Topic Objective

Wireless Networks Describe the different types of networks used by cell phones and mobile devices.
Mobile Device Connectivity Configure mobile devices for wireless connectivity.

Wireless Networks
3.1.3 Other Wireless Networks

List of expandable sections. Select each button to expand the content.

In addition to the GSM and 4G/5G transmitters and receivers, smartphones make connections in
a variety of ways.

Global Positioning System

The GPS uses satellites to transmit signals that cover the globe. The smartphone can receive
these signals and calculate the phone’s location to an accuracy of within 10 meters.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi transmitters and receivers located within the smartphone enable the phone to connect to
local networks and the internet. In order to receive and send data on a Wi-Fi network, the phone
needs to be within the range of the signal from a wireless network access point. Wi-Fi networks
are usually privately owned but often provide guest or public access hotspots. A hotspot is an
area where Wi-Fi signals are available. Wi-Fi network connections on the phone are similar to
the network connections on a laptop computer.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a low-power, shorter range wireless technology that is intended to replace wired
connectivity for accessories such as speakers, headphones, and microphones. Bluetooth can also
be used to connect a smartwatch to a smartphone. Because Bluetooth technology can be used to
transmit both data and voice, it can be used to create small local networks. Bluetooth is wireless
technology that allows devices to communicate over short distances. Multiple devices can be
connected at the same time with Bluetooth.

NFC
Near Field Communication (NFC) is a wireless communication technology that enables data to
be exchanged by devices that are in very close proximity to each other, usually less than a few
centimeters. For example, NFC can be used to connect a smartphone and a payment system.
NFC uses electromagnetic fields to transmit data.
Mobile Device Connectivity
3.2.1 Mobile Devices and Wi-Fi

Mobile devices give us the freedom to work, learn, play, and communicate wherever we want.
People using mobile devices do not need to be tied to a physical location to send and receive
voice, video, and data communications. In addition, wireless facilities, such as internet cafes, are
available in many countries. College campuses use wireless networks to allow students to sign
up for classes, watch lectures, and submit assignments in areas where physical connections to the
network are unavailable. With mobile devices becoming more powerful, many tasks that needed
to be performed on large computers connected to physical networks can now be completed using
mobile devices on wireless networks.

Almost all mobile devices are capable of connecting to Wi-Fi networks. It is advisable to connect
to Wi-Fi networks when possible because data used over Wi-Fi does not count against the
cellular data plan. Also, because Wi-Fi radios use less power than cellular radios, connecting to
Wi-Fi networks conserves battery power. Like other Wi-Fi-enabled devices, it is important to use
security when connecting to Wi-Fi networks. These precautions should be taken to protect Wi-Fi
communications on mobile devices:

 Never send login or password information using unencrypted text (plaintext).

 Use a VPN connection when possible if you are sending sensitive data.
 Enable security on home networks.
 Use WPA2 or higher encryption for security.

3.2.2 Wi-Fi Settings

Two of the most popular operating systems for mobile devices are Android and Apple iOS. Each
operating system has settings that enable you to configure your device to connect to wireless
networks.

To connect an Android or iOS device when it is within the coverage range of a Wi-Fi network,
turn on Wi-Fi and the device then searches for all available Wi-Fi networks and displays them in
a list. Touch a Wi-Fi network in the list to connect. Enter a password if needed.
When a mobile device is out of the range of the Wi-Fi network, it attempts to connect to another
Wi-Fi network in range. If no Wi-Fi networks are in range, the mobile device connects to the
cellular data network. When Wi-Fi is on, it will automatically connect to any Wi-Fi network that
it has connected to previously. If the network is new, the mobile device either displays a list of
available networks that can be used or asks if it should connect to it.

3.2.3 Configure Mobile Wi-Fi Connectivity

If your mobile device does not prompt to connect to a Wi-Fi network, the network SSID
broadcast may be turned off, or the device may not be set to connect automatically. Manually
configure the Wi-Fi settings on the mobile device. Remember that SSIDs and passphrases must
be typed exactly as entered on the wireless router setup or the device will not connect properly,
as shown in the figure. SSID is the name assigned to a wireless network. Passphrase is what we
normally use as the “wireless password”.

To connect to a Wi-Fi network manually on an Android device, follow these steps:

Step 1. Select Settings > Add network.
Step 2. Enter the network SSID.
Step 3. Touch Security and select a security type.
Step 4. Touch Password and enter the password.
Step 5. Touch Save.

Operating systems for mobile devices are updated frequently and may be customized by the
device manufacturer. The commands listed above may not be exactly the same on your device.
There are online manuals for every type of device which are usually accessible from the website
of the manufacturer.

To connect to a Wi-Fi network manually on an iOS device, follow these steps:

Step 1. Select Settings > Wi-Fi > Other.
Step 2. Enter the network SSID.
Step 3. Touch Security and select a security type.
Step 4. Touch Other Network.
Step 5. Touch Password and enter the password.
Step 6. Touch Join.

3.2.3 Configure Cellular Data Settings

Cellular data plans are offered by most cell phone carriers, but the bandwidth limitations and
charges for usage vary widely by carrier, and by plan within carriers. As a result, many mobile
device users only use their cellular data plans when Wi-Fi service is not available.

Android Cellular Data

To turn on or off cellular data on an Android device, as shown in the figure, use the following
path:

Settings > touch More under Wireless and Networks > touch Mobile Networks > touch Data
enabled

iOS Cellular Data

To turn on or off cellular data on an iOS device, as shown in the figure, use the following path:

Settings > Cellular Data > turn cellular data on or off

Mobile devices are preprogrammed to use a Wi-Fi network for internet if one is available and the
device can connect to the access point and receive an IP address. If no Wi-Fi network is
available, the device uses the cellular data capability if it is configured. Most of the time,
transitions from one network to another are not obvious to the user. For example, as a mobile
device moves from an area of 4G coverage to 3G coverage, the 4G radio shuts off and turns on
the 3G radio. Connections are not lost during this transition.
3.2.6 Simple Connectivity with Bluetooth

Mobile devices connect using many different methods. Cellular and Wi-Fi can be difficult to
configure, and require extra equipment such as towers and access points. Cable connections are
not always practical when connecting headsets or speakers. Bluetooth technology provides a
simple way for mobile devices to connect to each other and to wireless accessories. Bluetooth is
wireless, automatic, and uses very little power, which helps conserve battery life. Up to eight
Bluetooth devices can be connected together at any one time.

These are some examples of how devices use Bluetooth:

 Hands-free headset - A small earpiece with a microphone can be used for making and
receiving calls.
 Keyboard or mouse - A keyboard or mouse can be connected to a mobile device to
make input easier.
 Stereo control - A mobile device can connect to a home or car stereo to play music.
 Car speakerphone - A device that contains a speaker and a microphone can be used for
making and receiving calls.
 Tethering - A mobile device can connect to another mobile device or computer to share
a network connection. Tethering can also be performed with a Wi-Fi connection or a
cable connection such as USB.
 Mobile speaker - Portable speakers can connect to mobile devices to provide high-
quality audio without a stereo system.

3.2.7 Bluetooth Pairing

Bluetooth pairing occurs when two Bluetooth devices establish a connection to share resources.
In order for the devices to pair, the Bluetooth radios are turned on, and one device begins
searching for other devices. Other devices must be set to discoverable mode, also called visible,
so that they can be detected. When a Bluetooth device is in discoverable mode, it transmits the
following information when another Bluetooth device requests it:

 Name
 Bluetooth class
 Services that the device can use
 Technical information, such as the features or the Bluetooth specification that it supports

During the pairing process, a personal identification number (PIN) may be requested to
authenticate the pairing process. The PIN is often a number, but can also be a numeric code or
passkey. The PIN is stored using pairing services, so it does not have to be entered the next time
the device tries to connect. This is convenient when using a headset with a smart phone, because
they are paired automatically when the headset is turned on and within range.

To pair a Bluetooth device with an Android device, follow these steps:

Step 1. Follow the instructions for your device to place it in discoverable mode.

Step 2. Check the instructions for your device to find the connection PIN.

Step 3. Select Settings > Wireless and networks.

Step 4. Touch Bluetooth to turn it on.

Step 5. Touch the Bluetooth tab.

Step 6. Touch Scan for devices.

Step 7. Touch the discovered device to select it.

Step 8. Type the PIN.

Step 9. Touch the device name again to connect to it.

To pair a Bluetooth device with an iOS device, follow these steps:

Step 1. Follow the instructions for your device to place it in discoverable mode.

Step 2. Check the instructions for your device to find the connection PIN.

Step 3. Select Settings > Bluetooth.

Step 4. Touch Bluetooth to turn it on.

Step 5. Touch the discovered device to select it.

Step 6. Type the PIN.

Remember that mobile device operating systems are updated frequently. Always refer to the
documentation of the manufacturer for your specific model device for the latest command
reference.

3.2.8 Explore Your Network Settings on Your Mobile Device

Now that you have reviewed the steps to configure and verify your Wi-Fi, cellular, and
Bluetooth access, explore these settings on your own phone. If you have access to a Bluetooth
device, like headphones or a speaker, connect it to your phone. Notice that you can be using all
three of these wireless services simultaneously, each serving a different role. You could be
listening to music (Bluetooth), researching on the internet (Wi-Fi), and receiving text messages
(cellular).

Wireless and Mobile Networks Summary

3.3.1 What Did I Learn in this Module?
Wireless Networks

Mobile phones use radio waves to transmit voice signals to antennas mounted on towers located
in specific geographic areas. When a telephone call is made, the voice signal is relayed from one
tower to another tower until it is delivered to its destination. This type of network is used when
you make a phone call to another mobile phone or to a wired telephone. It is also used to send
text messages directly from the phone. The most common type of cellular telephone network is
called a GSM network. The abbreviations 3G, 4G, 4G-LTE, and 5G are used to describe
enhanced cell phone networks that are optimized for the fast transmission of data. Currently, 4G
still dominates as the current mobile network used by most phones.

In addition to the GSM and 4G/5G transmitters and receivers, smartphones make connections in
a variety of ways.

Wi-Fi transmitters and receivers located within the smartphone enable the phone to connect to
local networks and the internet. Wi-Fi networks are usually privately owned but often provide
guest or public access hotspots. A hotspot is an area where Wi-Fi signals are available.

Bluetooth is wireless technology that allows devices to communicate over short distances.
Multiple devices can be connected at the same time with Bluetooth.

NFC is a wireless communication technology that enables data to be exchanged by devices that
are in very close proximity to each other, usually less than a few centimeters.

Mobile Device Connectivity

Almost all mobile devices are capable of connecting to Wi-Fi networks. These precautions
should be taken to protect Wi-Fi communications on mobile devices:

 Never send login or password information using unencrypted text (plaintext).

 Use a VPN connection when possible if you are sending sensitive data.
 Enable security on home networks.
 Use WPA2 or higher encryption for security.

Two of the most popular operating systems for mobile devices are Android and Apple iOS.
Mobile devices are preprogrammed to use a Wi-Fi network for the internet if one is available,
and the device can connect to the access point and receive an IP address. If no Wi-Fi network is
available, the device uses the cellular data capability if it is configured.

Bluetooth technology provides a simple way for mobile devices to connect to each other and to
wireless accessories. Bluetooth is wireless, automatic, and uses very little power, which helps
conserve battery life. Some examples of devices that use Bluetooth include hands-free headsets,
keyboards, a mouse, stereo controls, car speakerphones, and mobile speakers.

Bluetooth pairing occurs when two Bluetooth devices establish a connection to share resources.
In order for the devices to pair, the Bluetooth radios are turned on, and one device begins
searching for other devices. Other devices must be set to discoverable mode, also called visible,
so that they can be detected.

When a Bluetooth device is in discoverable mode, it transmits the following information when
another Bluetooth device requests it:

 Name
 Bluetooth class
 Services that the device can use
 Technical information, such as the features or the Bluetooth specification that it supports

During the pairing process, a PIN may be requested to authenticate the pairing process.

3.3.2 Webster - Reflection Questions

I find it fascinating that that you can send and receive data without plugging one device into
another using a cable. I am going to get a tablet so I can take this course while I am at the beach!
How many ways does your tablet or smartphone communicate when you are away from your
home network?