MANICALAND STATE UNIVERSITY

OF
APPLIED SCIENCES

Stair Guthrie Road P. Bag 7001

Mutare Mutare
Zimbabwe Tel: +263(20)2067572

Module Description : Mobile Computing

Module Code : INSY422

Assignment : 2

Name : Anesu Aaron Makureya

Registration Number : M228AF

Degree Programme : Bachelor of Science (Honours) In Information Systems

Level : 4.2 (Visiting)

Lecturer : Mr Muwani

Due Date : 20/09/2024

Question

Distinguish between mobile computing and wireless networking. [100 Marks]

Mobile Computing and Wireless Networking both play essential roles in today's technology-
driven world. They are often used interchangeably but represent distinct concepts with different
focuses. In this masterpiece, the researcher provided a more detailed examination of both to
understand their key differences, features, and roles in modern computing environments.

Mobile Computing

Mobile computing by definition is the technology that allows transmission of data, voice and
video via a computer or any other wireless-enabled device without being connected to a fixed
physical network. It involves using portable devices to perform computing tasks that
traditionally required desktop systems.

Components of Mobile Computing

Mobile computing consists of three major components namely mobile hardware, mobile
software and mobile communication/ network as explained below

 Mobile Hardware
Devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) and
wearable devices such as smart watches. These devices have built-in processors,
memory, storage, and communication capabilities to enable computing tasks on the go.
 Mobile Software
Operating systems like Android, iOS, Windows Mobile and various applications (apps)
designed specifically for mobile devices. Mobile software allows devices to perform
specific tasks such as web browsing, communication, productivity and gaming.
 Mobile Communication/Networking
Mobile computing often involves connectivity to a network, which can include Wi-Fi,
Bluetooth, or cellular networks (4G, 5G). This component enables real-time data
exchange between the device and other devices or services.

Characteristics of Mobile Computing

 Portability –The ability to carry and use computing devices from almost anywhere,
offering greater flexibility and mobility for users.
 Connectivity –Mobile computing devices connect to various wireless networks,
allowing users to access the internet and remote systems from anywhere.
  Personalization –Devices can be customized according to the user's needs, with apps,
settings and user interfaces designed for individual preferences.
 Ubiquity –Mobile computing allows continuous access to resources, regardless of the
user’s location, enabling communication and work from remote areas.

Examples of Mobile Computing Applications

 Mobile Apps –Apps like Google Maps, social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram),
and online banking apps such as CBZ touch, Steward Bank Square App, allow users to
perform tasks while on the move.
 Mobile Commerce (mCommerce) –Shopping, banking and financial transactions can
be done using mobile devices, facilitating e-commerce activities through mobile
networks.
 Healthcare Applications –Mobile health (mHealth) systems allow healthcare providers
to monitor patients remotely using mobile devices.

Advantages of Mobile Computing

Mobile Computing facilitates Mobility and Flexibility whereby users can access data and
applications from any location, improving productivity, especially in remote work
environments. Also it enables instant communication which allows for real-time
communication through emails, chats, video conferencing and phone calls, boosting
collaboration. In addition, mobile computing is cost-effective as it reduces the need for physical
infrastructure, as much of the work can be done on portable devices.

However it is not all heaven with mobile computing as it comes with some short comings such
as security issues as mobile devices are prone to theft, hacking and data breaches. Without
proper security measures, they can expose sensitive data. Also considering battery life, portable
devices often have limited battery life, making power management critical for prolonged use.
Accordingly, with mobile computing there is a tendency of limited processing power, mobile
devices while powerful, typically have less processing power compared to traditional desktop
computers. In addition mobile computing heavily relies on stable and fast wireless
connectivity, which may not always be available, particularly in rural or remote areas.
WHILST

Wireless Networking

Wireless networking by definition refers to the technology that enables communication

between devices without using physical cables. It uses electromagnetic waves (such as radio
waves) to transmit data between devices in a network. Wireless networking is the backbone of
mobile computing as it allows devices to communicate without being tethered to a physical
connection.

Components of Wireless Networking

 Access Points (APs) or Base Stations

Wireless access points are devices that allow wireless devices to connect to a wired
network using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks. These act as the bridge between
wireless devices and the internet.
 Wireless Devices
These are devices that use wireless network adapters, such as smartphones, laptops,
smart home devices and even some modern automobiles.
 Networking Protocols
Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) is the most common wireless networking technology used for
local area networks (LANs). It enables devices within a certain range to connect to the
internet via an access point.
 Bluetooth is used for short-range communication between devices such as wireless
headphones, keyboards, or file sharing between phones.
 Cellular Networks (4G/5G) provides long-range wireless communication, allowing
mobile devices to connect to the internet or make phone calls even when outside of Wi-
Fi coverage.

Characteristics of Wireless Networking

Mobility –Wireless networking enables users to move freely while maintaining a network
connection. This is essential for mobile computing devices.

Flexibility –Wireless networks can be set up without the need for extensive cabling, reducing
infrastructure costs and making installation easier.
Scalability –Wireless networks can be expanded easily, without having to lay down physical
cables for every additional device.

Speed –While wired networks often offer faster speeds, modern wireless technologies like 5G
and Wi-Fi 6 are closing the gap, providing users with high-speed data access.

Advantages of Wireless Networking

Wireless networking eliminates the need for physical cables, making it convenient to set up
and maintain. Users can move freely while staying connected to the network, ideal for mobile
computing. It provides a flexible installation facility and it can be easily installed in places
where cabling is difficult, such as in old buildings or outdoor environments. It also cost savings
as reducing the need for cabling infrastructure cuts down on installation and maintenance costs.

However wireless networking comes with security concerns as wireless networks are
vulnerable to unauthorized access, eavesdropping and data interception if not properly secured
with encryption technologies. Wireless signals can experience interference from other devices
(e.g., microwaves, radios) or physical obstacles, affecting network performance. In addition
wireless networks have a limited range compared to wired networks. The farther a device is
from the access point, the weaker the signal may become. Accordingly wireless networks,
especially in crowded areas, can experience congestion, leading to slower speeds.

Key differences between Mobile Computing and Wireless Networking

Scope and Focus

Mobile computing refers to the use of portable devices to perform computing tasks, while
wireless networking focuses specifically on the technology that facilitates wireless
communication between devices.

Core Components

Mobile computing requires hardware, software and networking components, whereas wireless
networking is primarily concerned with the transmission medium such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
and the network infrastructure.
Mobility vs. Communication

Mobile computing emphasizes the ability to perform computing tasks from anywhere, while
wireless networking provides the connectivity needed to facilitate those tasks without the need
for physical connections.

Examples

Mobile computing includes devices like smartphones and tablets that allow users to access
applications and services on the go. Whilst Wireless networking examples include Wi-Fi, 4G
and 5G networks that enable communication between devices without cables.

In a nutshell, mobile computing and wireless networking are complementary technologies that
empower the modern digital age. Mobile computing focuses on making computing power
portable, while wireless networking provides the infrastructure necessary to enable seamless
communication between devices, regardless of location. Together they enable real-time access
to information, applications and services, driving innovation in sectors such as healthcare,
education, business and entertainment.