World Wi-Fi Day: Tips, facts, and why this invention changed the world

Every June 20th, in addition to commemorating Manuel Belgrano and the Argentine flag, World Wi-Fi Day is also celebrated, a day promoted by the Wireless Broadband Alliance to recognize the impact this technology has had on our lives and, at the same time, promote digital inclusion around the world.

This technology emerged in the 1990s and gained popularity throughout the 21st century, becoming essential for work, school, and entertainment. Today, it's a daily part of most homes, and we almost forget its importance... until the signal drops.

In this context, it's worth reviewing how to make the most of this tool and learning some interesting facts that demonstrate why Wi-Fi changed history.

Many routers come with default passwords that can be vulnerable. Ideally, use long passwords with letters, numbers, and symbols. Don't use your name or your dog's name.

This is best for a more stable signal. Place the modem in an open, central area. Also, keep it away from thick walls, microwaves, or televisions, which can interfere.

The more devices using Wi-Fi at the same time, the slower it will be. Disconnect devices you're not using and prioritize a wired connection if you need speed (such as for gaming or 4K streaming).

If you have guests, you can activate a guest network from the router's control panel. This protects your primary devices and personal data.

Although it may sound cliché, turning your router off and back on again is still a good practice. It helps improve performance, free up memory, and resolve minor connection errors.

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Although many people think so, "WiFi" isn't a technical acronym. It was coined by a marketing agency in 1999 because it sounded similar to "Hi-Fi" (high fidelity audio).

Wi-Fi technology began commercially available in 1997, several years before the social media boom. Its initial standard was IEEE 802.11.

3. It was invented by a Hollywood star

Actress Hedy Lamarr, a star of Hollywood's golden age in the 1940s, co-authored a patent for "frequency hopping," the basis for modern technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

There are no limits to its use. From space stations to the top of Mount Everest, Wi-Fi connectivity has reached unprecedented levels. There are even Wi-Fi-connected hives to monitor bees.

According to the UN, providing Wi-Fi internet access in rural communities can improve access to education, employment, and medical services. That's why this day is promoted: to remind everyone that not everyone is connected.

Beyond the memes about WiFi cuts or signal problems at home, the date aims to put the need to close the digital divide on the agenda. In Argentina, according to data from Enacom, there are still areas without adequate coverage.

Celebrating Wi-Fi Day isn't just about routers and passwords. It's also an opportunity to demand greater access, better public policies, and a future where being connected doesn't depend on your zip code.

Would you like me to adapt it for social media, adding hashtags or some additional data about connectivity in Argentina?