Both of these are modes of establishing a wireless Internet connection. Still, there is a significant difference between WiFi and HotSpot. A hotspot renders a wireless network to the devices in the vicinity, while the hotspot on those devices allows them to receive the internet. In this article, we will discuss the difference between WiFi and HotSpot in detail. But let us first understand a bit more about each of them individually.
What is WiFi?
The term WiFi is an acronym for Wireless Fidelity. It is a wireless type of communication technology that we can use for Local Area Network (LAN). A typical WiFi makes use of electromagnetic waves that fall under radio frequency bands of about 2.4 GHz (to establish a wireless connection). We establish a WiFi system by the use of wireless devices for creating a hotspot. No hotspot would be available to anyone without WiFi on their devices. The system of WiFi is more flexible and secure in nature. One can use it for connecting computers, printers, gaming consoles, etc.
What is HotSpot?
The WiFi of an area creates a HotSpot. Such a system makes it possible for the devices in the vicinity to get wireless internet with the help of wifi. An access point device creates a hotspot, but in normal terms, the access point device and hotspot have the same meaning. We connect this access point to a router or gateway- which then connects to the Internet. People can use a HotSpot commonly in public places as well. Thus, as compared to private WiFi systems, the HotSpots are much less secure.
Difference Between WiFi and HotSpot
| Parameters | WiFi | HotSpot |
| Meaning and Definition | It is a wireless form of communication technology that we can use for the Local Area Networks (LAN). | It provides an internet connection to various devices in the vicinity with the help of WiFi. |
| Basics | A WiFi system acts as the end receiver of the wireless internet services. | A hotspot acts as the end donor of wireless internet services. |
| Interdependency | No hotspot can be present without wifi. | Wifi creates a hotspot network among the devices. |
| Devices Used | For creating WiFi, we need an access point and wireless devices for interconnection. | For creating HotSpot, we need a router connecting to the access point device. |
| Speed of Internet | The speed generated for wireless Internet among multiple users is very high as compared to the hotspot system. | The speed generated for wireless Internet among multiple users is pretty low as compared to the wifi system. |
| Service Providers | The ISP (Internet Service Provider) of a local area provides WiFi services. | Mainly, phone or cellular corporations largely provide hotspot services to various users. |
| Level of Security | It is much more secure than the system of a hotspot. | We typically use hotspots in public places. Thus, it becomes much less secure as compared to the private wifi systems. |
| Mode of Communication | A typical WiFi uses electromagnetic waves under a 2.4 GHz radio frequency band for establishing communication. | A typical HotSpot uses the technology of WiFi for connecting various devices to an access point (that shares the internet). |
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FAQs
A WiFi system acts as the end receiver of the wireless internet services. A hotspot acts as the end donor of wireless internet services. No hotspot can be present without wifi. Wifi creates a hotspot network among the devices.
Is it better to use hotspot or Wi-Fi? ›
Wifi provides high speed as compared to a hotspot in the case of multiple users. The hotspot offers a lower speed than wifi in the case of many users. Wifi services are provided by the local area Internet service provider. Whereas the hotspot services are largely provided by cellular or phone corporations.
Does a hotspot give you Wi-Fi? ›
While some people use the terms “hotspot” and “mobile hotspot” interchangeably, they have distinct meanings. Hotspot: A hotspot is a physical location where people can access the Internet, typically using Wi-Fi, via a wireless local area network (WLAN) with a router connected to an Internet service provider.
Is it better to use hotspot or public wifi? ›
In general, it is safe to use public Wi-Fi if you also use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service. However, it is better to have a mobile device that can provide a personal Wi-Fi hotspot that only you, or anyone you grant access to, can use.
What is the difference between WIFI Direct and hotspot? ›
While Wi-Fi Direct and a hotspot allow wireless communication between devices, they differ. A hotspot connects to the internet or other wireless network devices, whereas Wi-Fi Direct allows devices to connect directly without needing an intermediary network.
Is there a downside to using a hotspot? ›
The downside to this type of connection is that you're using data, and at some point you may be hit with overage charges. Your mobile carrier also still has access to information about what sites you're visiting and what apps you're using. When it comes to privacy, you can do better.
Can you just use a hotspot instead of Wi-Fi? ›
If you're on the go, you can use a mobile hotspot for secure, reliable internet access in places where Wi-Fi is limited or nonexistent. It's a key tool for travelers, remote workers, and even some students. But a hotspot is a limited device, designed to be used on a temporary basis.
Do I need Wi-Fi if I have a hotspot? ›
Most types of hotspots can be set up with a few simple steps, and don't require any kind of Wi-Fi connection. Reliability: Because hotspots rely on cellular networks, they can provide you with a reliable connection in a wider range of locations than Wi-Fi.
Can you use hotspot and Wi-Fi at the same time? ›
With both your WiFi and mobile hotspot active, your device will automatically use both connections to improve your internet speed and reliability. This can be especially helpful for downloading large files, streaming high-definition videos, or online gaming, where a stable and fast internet connection is crucial.
What is the point of a mobile hotspot? ›
A mobile hotspot or hotspot device is like a personal, portable router you can use to connect to the internet with a compatible device when there are no public hotspots available. It uses a cellular signal to connect to the internet the same way your phone does, but you can't use it to make or receive calls.
What is the difference in speed, reach and battery usage when sharing internet using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi? Generally speaking, sharing your internet connection (tethering) using a Wi-Fi® hotspot provides higher internet speed than sharing your internet connection using Bluetooth®.
Why should you be careful about Wi-Fi? ›
Bad actors may create networks that look harmless based on their name but are in fact directing you to connect with a network set-up to see your internet surfing. This means if you enter login credentials or passwords into websites, the hacker will be able to steal your information.
Is phone hotspot better than pocket Wi-Fi? ›
Phone tethering can be handy for occasional web access to a single device such as a laptop or iPad in areas where reception is strong, but you may struggle to get a good connection if you are travelling further afield. In most cases, a dual-band portable WiFi router is the better option for internet connectivity.
Does my hotspot use Wi-Fi or data? ›
Most modern smartphones have this option these days, and some even allow you to specify whether you want to provide a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Wi-Fi frequency band. However, hotspots aren't authentic Wi-Fi connections. They still use cellular data: the same data that a cell phone would use for texting and surfing the web.
Is hotspot as fast as Wi-Fi? ›
Hotspots work over wireless networks, and cellular speeds tend to be slower than fixed broadband connections like cable and fiber. Hotspot Wi-Fi can slow down in areas with weak cell service or network congestion. You could be experiencing slow speeds if you've run out of data on your monthly hotspot plan.
Is A hotspot the same as a router? ›
Mobile routers are less portable than hotspots, so are better suited for situations where you can carry a bag or backpack. Hotspots are compact and easily fit in your pocket, making them highly portable and convenient for quick and casual Internet access on the go.
Do I need a hotspot if I have unlimited data? ›
Choosing a plan with unlimited data may lead you to wonder if it covers hotspot usage as well. However, it's crucial to note that some carriers may have limitations on hotspot usage, even with unlimited data plans. To find out, take a closer look at your plan's details.
Does using your phone as a hotspot use data? ›
Mobile hotspots are super convenient and one of the most highly advertised features on modern mobile phone plans. But for all their flexibility, mobile hotspots use a massive amount of data.
Can you use hotspot and WiFi at the same time? ›
With both your WiFi and mobile hotspot active, your device will automatically use both connections to improve your internet speed and reliability. This can be especially helpful for downloading large files, streaming high-definition videos, or online gaming, where a stable and fast internet connection is crucial.
Which is better, hotspot bluetooth or WiFi? ›
What is the difference in speed, reach and battery usage when sharing internet using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi? Generally speaking, sharing your internet connection (tethering) using a Wi-Fi® hotspot provides higher internet speed than sharing your internet connection using Bluetooth®.
