Wireless network connections replaced cables to connect internet for laptops, smart phones and tablet devices using radio frequency waves. With wireless connections smartphones and tablet devices are conveniently access internet connections without cables. Second-generation 2G cellular telecom networks were commercially launched on the GSM standard in Finland in 1991.
| Type | Range | Standards | Performance | Applications |
| Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) | Within reach of a person | Bluetooth, NFC, Wireless USB, ANT UWB & ZigBee | Moderate | Cable replacement for peripherals. |
| Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) | Within a campus or building | IEEE 802.11 | High | Wireless extension of wired network. |
| Wireless Metropolitan Area Network (WMAN) | Within a city | IEEE 802.15 (WiMAX) | High | Wireless inter-network connectivity |
| Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)
|
Worldwide | Cellular | Low/Moderate | Wireless network access. |
attocloud 