WCDMA (wideband CDMA) A third-generation wireless technology under development that allows for high-speed, high-quality data transmission. Derived from CDMA, WCDMA digitizes and transmits wireless data over a broad range of frequencies. It requires more bandwidth than CDMA but offers faster transmission because it optimizes the use of multiple wireless signals--not just one, as with CDMA.

Wi-Fi (shorthand for "wireless fidelity") is the common term for a high-frequency wireless local-area network (WLAN). The term used generically when referring of any type of 802.11 network, whether 802.11b, 802.11a, dual-band, etc. Wi-fi operates in the 2.4 GHz range offering data speeds up to 11 megabits per second. Wi-Fi is gaining acceptance as an alternative to a wired LAN in companies and multicomputer homes. Unless protected, a Wi-Fi wireless LAN can be susceptible to access from the outside by unauthorized user seeking to access the Internet for free. Locating and exploiting security-exposed WLANs is called war driving. Warchalking is the term for the markings used to indicate where an exposed WLAN is accessible. Companies can safeguard these networks using the Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption standard, a virtual private network and other options.

Wireless LAN It uses radio frequency technology to transmit network messages through the air for relatively short distances, like across an office building or college campus. A wireless LAN can serve as a replacement for or extension to a wired LAN.

Wireless spectrum A band of frequencies where wireless signals travel carrying voice and data information. Wireless carriers are bidding at Federal Communications Commission auctions on slivers of airwaves through which they will ultimately be able to send third-generation communications. The auctions, which began in December 2000 in the United States and already occurred in several European nations, will give providers access to new pieces of the spectrum that will allow them to move to third-generation services. More auctions relevant to 3G communications are on tap (see 3G).

WISP (wireless Internet service provider) A vendor that specializes in providing wireless Internet access.

WML (wireless markup language) A version of HDML, WML is based on XML and will run with its own version of JavaScript. Wireless application developers use WML to repurpose content for wireless devices.

Z! Because we promised you a list from A to Z.