MiFi vs WiFi - What's The Difference?

Understanding MiFi and WiFi

Do you ever get confused between WiFi and MiFi? Don't worry, you're not alone! These two words sound very similar. But WiFi and MiFi are actually different things.

In this blog, we'll discuss what WiFi and MiFi are as well as their key differences.

What is WiFi?

When you hear WiFi, you probably think of "wireless internet". Well, WiFi isn't internet per se.

WiFi is a wireless networking protocol based on IEEE 802.11 standards. It's the technology that allows smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other WiFi devices to connect to the internet without cables.

Basically, WiFi-enabled devices wirelessly connect to a WiFi router or access point, which in turn is connected to an internet service provider. As long as you're in range of the router's coverage area, you're able to stream and browse from anywhere.

Without WiFi, we’d still have access to the internet, but via ethernet cables.

WiFi can be found in homes, offices, cafes, airports, and any other public place.

What is MiFi?

MiFi is a small portable wireless router or hotspot device with built-in WiFi tech. It uses your mobile carrier's LTE, 4G, and 5G network to create an ad hoc WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network). This enables internet access while on the go or in areas lacking broadband infrastructure.

Unlike a conventional WiFi router, MiFi devices can be used without being connected to an internet service provider. All you need is cellular service. You can surf the internet anywhere cell signal is available.

What's the Difference Between WiFi and MiFi?

Simply put...

WiFi is a technology that makes wireless internet connectivity possible. It’s built into many devices, such as traditional internet routers, cellular routers, mobile hotspots, MiFis, smartphones, tablets, and the like. A WiFi network can be established through an internet service provider or cellular network. It all depends on your WiFi access point.

MiFi is a type of WiFi access point. There is a wide variety of MiFi models available to fit your needs. They’re able to connect WiFi-enabled devices to the internet via the cellular network. Portable, they'll keep you connected when away from your home WiFi.

Cellular signal is needed for a MiFi to work. Weak cell reception will impact data speeds for all connected devices.

Things You May Not Know About MiFi and WiFi, But Should

Here are a couple of fun facts about WiFi and MiFi:

1) WiFi Does Not Stand for Wireless Fidelity

Despite what many sources say, WiFi is not an acronym. It does not stand for Wireless Fidelity, Wireless Fiber, or anything at all really.

Before the standard for wireless networking could be adopted, it needed a name that was memorable and intuitive to understand. IEEE 802.11 would not do. The branding firm Interbrand picked WiFi because many customers said the similarity to HiFi (High Fidelity) helped them understand the concept.

WiFi simply stands for WiFi.

2) MiFi is Used as an Umbrella Term for Portable Hotspot Devices

The term MiFi was coined in 2009 by Novatel Wireless, now known as Inseego. It’s what they named their portable WiFi devices.

Nowadays, the name is often used interchangeably with all types of portable hotspot devices, such as cellular routers and mobile hotspots.

3) Traditional WiFi Connection Tends to Be Faster than MiFi

Because MiFi devices rely on cellular networks, they can be slower than a traditional WiFi network serviced by an ISP. Things like topography, cell tower distance, congestion, weather, and building material affect the signal MiFi devices receive. As you move from place to place, results will vary.

With 5G, however, MiFi speeds can rival broadband internet. Though, ultra-fast 5G isn't available everywhere.

On average, MiFi speeds are close to the speeds you normally get on your phone:

Opensignal’s 2024 4G and 5G Mobile Network Experience Report

While these speeds are great for working and streaming, they may not be the best for gaming or anything that needs lots of data. Data-demanding applications often need broadband internet as it offers more bandwidth and faster speeds.

In situations where your traditional WiFi connection shuts down or overloads, MiFi can serve as a backup for continuous uptime.

4) Public WiFi Hotspots Are Not as Secure as MiFi

While convenient, public WiFi hotspots can be easily accessed by hackers. Since data isn't usually encrypted on public networks, they can obtain your personal information.

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