Which network protocol allows devices to communicate with each other over a short range, usually less than 30 feet/9 meters?

Which network protocol allows devices to communicate with each other over a short range, usually less than 30 feet/9 meters?

• A. Ethernet
• B. Wi-Fi
• C. Bluetooth
• D. Infrared

Answer: (C)

Short-range wireless communication between devices is handled by technologies designed for personal area networks. Bluetooth is built for exactly this scenario, focusing on low power and close proximity. It typically works within about 10 meters (roughly 30 feet), though newer versions can extend that range. This makes it ideal for connecting peripherals like headphones, keyboards, mice, and phones without wires. Ethernet is a wired technology, so it isn’t used for wireless short-range links. Wi-Fi covers longer distances and higher data rates, usually through routers or access points, which isn’t what you want for very close, direct device-to-device links. Infrared also has very short range and requires line-of-sight, and it’s largely been supplanted by Bluetooth for everyday device communication. So, for short-range communication between devices, Bluetooth fits best.

Short-range wireless communication between devices is handled by technologies designed for personal area networks. Bluetooth is built for exactly this scenario, focusing on low power and close proximity. It typically works within about 10 meters (roughly 30 feet), though newer versions can extend that range. This makes it ideal for connecting peripherals like headphones, keyboards, mice, and phones without wires.

Ethernet is a wired technology, so it isn’t used for wireless short-range links. Wi-Fi covers longer distances and higher data rates, usually through routers or access points, which isn’t what you want for very close, direct device-to-device links. Infrared also has very short range and requires line-of-sight, and it’s largely been supplanted by Bluetooth for everyday device communication.

So, for short-range communication between devices, Bluetooth fits best.