Today is the last in the series of wireless networks.  In this blog, I want to share with you how Bluetooth networks work.

You probably see Bluetooth or Bluetooth capable electronics like your computer, cell phone, accessories like mice/keyboards, printers, and even cars.  But what does it mean and how does it work?

The name Bluetooth comes from a Danish king that united disparate villages into a single kingdom.  The idea for the Bluetooth technology is the same - provide a single standard/interface to connect multiple electronic devices wirelessly.  There are actually different Bluetooth standards like the other wireless networks, but the differences between each are irrelevant for this conversation.

Let's look at a few Bluetooth wireless models:

Bluetooth is designed to make a wireless connection between these devices easy.  Keep in mind that the two devices must be line-of-site and no more than maximum distance of about 33ft from each other.   

Why would you want to buy a Bluetooth device?
Since Bluetooth offers a short-distance wireless connection you can use it to connect a hands-free earpiece to your cell phone, a wireless headset for your computer, or even a wireless connection for your mouse without the need for a USB adapter!

As for me, I used to use a wired earpiece for my cell phone but it would get caught on my parking brake and yaked out of my ear when I would egress my car.  Of course I use a Bluetooth earpiece now.

Caveat about Bluetooth
The current Bluetooth standard is probably one of the most unsecure wireless connections available (I'll skip the list of vulnerabilities). But if possible try to change the password from your Bluetooth device from 0000 to something else.  Or try changing your device's Bluetooth status to 'Hidden'.

Did this tip work for you? Do you know of a faster solution?  Let us know.  Click on 'Add comment' at the top of this tip.