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."

MiFi is a line of compact wireless routers produced by Novatel Wireless that act as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots. MiFi stands for 'My Wi-Fi'. The MiFi can be connected to a mobile phone (cellular) carrier and provide internet access for up to 5 devices. The MiFi works at a distance up to 10 m (30 ft) and will provide internet or network access to any WiFi enabled peripheral device.

This "cloud" of high-speed Internet connectivity that MiFi offers can be shared not only between users, but between devices such as laptops, cameras, gaming devices and multimedia players. Perfect for carpooling and relieving boredom in the back seat during that long road trip with kids - think Nintendo DS or Sony PSP - the MiFi will support up to five users simultaneously. 

The pocket sized MiFi is capable of connecting users and devices 

In addition to being a portable Internet hotspot, the EVDO blog notes that the MiFi has an onboard Linux processor capable of hosting software applications and additional content storage capabilities via MicroSD. 

Novatel claims the internal battery will provide over forty hours standby and up to four hours of active use on a single charge, and that certain configurations will support applications like auto VPN, automatic syncing of e-mail and remote management capabilities.