Which technology allows devices such as laptops and smartphones to connect to the internet wirelessly?

Wi-Fi is the technology that enables devices like laptops and smartphones to connect to the internet wirelessly. It operates by using radio frequency signals to transmit data between a wireless access point and the devices connected to it. This eliminates the need for physical cables, providing flexibility and mobility for users, as they can access the internet from anywhere within the coverage area of the Wi-Fi network.

Ethernet refers to a wired networking technology that uses cables to connect devices within a local area network (LAN). While it is highly efficient for transferring data at high speeds, it does not provide wireless connectivity. Fiber optic technology is designed for high-speed data transmission over long distances through light signals in optical fibers, requiring physical connections and is not suitable for providing wireless access. DSL, or Digital Subscriber Line, is a technology that provides internet connectivity over telephone lines; however, like Ethernet, it is also a wired method of access and does not facilitate wireless connections.