MiFi

What is MiFi?

MiFi is a portable broadband wireless device about the size of a credit card that combines functions of a modem, router and access point. The internal modem accesses a wireless signal and the internal router shares that connection among users and devices. MiFi is sometimes called a personal hotspot.

 MiFi was designed to simplify setting up a small local area network (LAN). The device supports five users and can also network Wi-Fi-capable devices including digital cameras, notebooks, MP3 players and gaming systems. A MiFi device could be used to set up an ad-hoc network with a shared Internet connection anywhere with cellular connectivity. 

Here are some of MiFi's other features:

• Storage capacity.
• The ability to host applications.
• Support for EV-DO or UMTS/HSDPA 3G technologies.
• Four hours active use, forty hours standby before the internal battery needs to be recharged.
• Can be configured for automatic email synching and virtual private network (VPN) connection.
• Support for remote management.

Novatel, who developed MiFi and trademarked the name, call their associated product line "Intelligent Mobile Hotspots." Novatel markets the devices, which require a data plan, through carriers. According to Novatel, MiFi stands for "my Wi-Fi" and is pronounced as "my-Fi." 

Learn more:
> Novatel offers data sheets for specific MiFi products.
> David Pogue writes about Mifi in the New York Times.
> Lisa Phifer explains wireless personal area networks (WPANs).