• Radio frequency communication requires radio
circuits, antennas and complex receivers, whereas
Li-Fi is much simpler and uses direct modulation
methods similar to those used in low-cost infrared
communications devices, such as remote control
units. LED light bulbs have high intensities and
therefore can achieve very large data rates.
• Li-Fi can deliver multiple Gb/s speeds in mobile
devices. This next generation technology will drive
wireless beyond any current capability, opening
up unprecedented bandwidth.
• Light can be contained and secured in a physical
space. Li-Fi enables additional control as it offers
precise localization for asset tracking and
user authentication.
Interestingly,“Li-Fi would not work if the device
is in your pocket or bag, unless there is a transparent
cover. Li-Fi is a complimentary technology that works
alongside other wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi.
If the light signal to a Li-Fi enabled device is below the
receiver’s threshold, then it will not receive data. In that
instance, radio systems or cellular networks, if available,
will continue to deliver data. However, the moment
the device begins to receive light from a Li-Fi light bulb
or luminaire, then the device will resume high speed
communications using light as an additional
communications medium.”12
Furthermore, “Li-Fi currently offers latency by
a factor of three times lower than Wi-Fi and can radically
enable innovation, automation, and applications,
such as virtual reality and augmented reality.”13
20 I ICT TODAY
At a minimum, ICT designers and installers should
keep in mind the differences between Li-Fi and Wi-Fi
as illustrated in Table 1.
Li-Fi SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS
The active area of Li-Fi is confined to the area where light
is distributed (where light touches). The signal remains
hidden to anyone outside this area. The light is controllable
by shutting the door or pulling the blinds to protect
the network. This makes it more secure and easier to control
access to a network. As long as transparent materials,
such as windows, are covered, access to a Li-Fi channel
is limited to devices inside the room.14
Since light cannot penetrate through walls, accessing
data from a light that is in the other room is not possible.
This may be an inconvenience, but it also presents a great
security feature. According to pureLiFi, existing security
protocols for encryption and authentication can be
leveraged in Li-Fi systems to provide even better secured
wireless systems.
APPLICABLE STANDARDS
TO Li-Fi INSTALLATIONS
Standards applicable to the installation of a Li-Fi system
would be those relevant to the installation of telecommunications
and structured cabling systems, as well
as all electrical standards applicable to the installation
of lighting and energy efficiency.
Until the Li-Fi technology is firmly established,
the following standards, including but not limited
to, shall be complied with for all Li-Fi installations.
Close coordination with the authority having
jurisdiction (AHJ) inspectors and plan reviewers
will be necessary.
Li-Fi Wi-Fi
Operation Uses LED Uses modem
Data Transfer Speed >1 Gb/s About 150 Mb/s
Security High Low
Cost Lower, visible light spectrum is free Higher, radio spectrum requires license
Power Consumption Potentially Less More
TABLE 1: Essential differences between Li-Fi and Wi-Fi.