Wi-Fi technology has evolved from early experiments with radio waves in the 19th century to today's widely used wireless networks. Key developments included Maxwell proving the existence of radio waves in 1864, Hertz transmitting the first radio waves in 1887, and Marconi discovering short wave radio in 1920. The first wireless local area network was created at the University of Hawaii in 1971. Today, Wi-Fi networks using radio frequencies allow devices to connect to the internet without cables by communicating with wireless access points and routers. Common applications of Wi-Fi include internet access at home and work, as well as public hotspots at locations like airports and cafes.