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The Internet envisionment is that of an Internet that is 100 times faster than today Wi-Fi and based on light. That is a possibility when using Li-Fi or Light Fidelity that could soon change how the world connects. Here’s why Li-Fi is so promising, and why it has been described as the new frontier of Internet connections.

What Exactly is Li-Fi?


While Li- Fi appears to be a variation of Wi- Fi, Li- Fi actually transmits data through light. This way, data moves through brief flashlights that emanate from LED bulbs—more like sign language in morse code. Even though we never see these pulses, Li-Fi enabled devices can easily decode them and that makes the process extremely rapid and effective.

First idea of this technology is dates back to early 2000s when it was proposed by German physicist Harald Haas and his team. The idea came to light when Oldecomm, a French company, started testing with Li-Fi in 2008 resulting to recent testing by Europe’s Ariane 6 rocket during its launch.

Speed and Efficiency: What Makes Li-Fi Stand Out?
Though introduced several years later than Wi-Fi, Li-Fi has further developed the possibilities of wireless connectivity at a much higher level – Li-Fi speed is hundreds of times higher than Wi-Fi versions starting from the initial one that appeared in 1996. Where Li-Fi is implemented in a controlled environment, its speed has reached 224000 megabits per second, which means is futuristic for applications such as smart cities, virtual reality, Full HD Streaming and online games. Thanks to extreme low latency and high data transfer rates, Li- Fi has a great potential to be soon used in various challenging tech environments.

Is Li-Fi Safer?


Li-Fi, however, has several gains as far as security and health are concerned. Because it uses light waves to convey its signal, it cannot penetrate walls in homes or offices. This containment within illuminated areas restricts people who have no business in such areas, enhancing the security since these sectors in the defense and government among others need to protect their data. Further, since Li-Fi does not interact with electromagnetic devices, Li-Fi may be more advantageous in some environments, such as a hospital or an airplane.

Where is Li-Fi Headed?


While furtheruble still in the research state within the United States, Li-Fi is on the move across various sectors. The LiFi Group of the present author, which provides end-to-end LiFi solutions, points to such advantages as the high level of data protection and applicability of LiFi in certain sectors such as aviation, healthcare and consumer electronics. Today, the American VLNComm in Virginia and Signify in the state of New Jersey are trying to advance Li-Fi in the United States.

In their view, a representative of the LiFi Group says that it is driven by the need for business, learning, and even leisure that requires stable, fast connection where Wi-Fi fails. The automotive sector, telecommunications and consumer electronics are some of the industries that have taken interest in Li-Fi, Oldecomm expects actually expanded commitments could start occurring between 2024-2029.

The Takeaway
Li-Fi creates interesting opportunities that may revolutionize the notion of Internet connection as it were with unique speed, security and effectiveness. It is as yet a minor trend, but the attention and money that are flowing its way show us that this exciting new technology is only just getting started.

Keep an eye on Li-Fi. It just might light up our future with faster safer and smarter connectivity.

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