Explore core concepts of Bluetooth technology and short-range wireless communication protocols. This quiz covers standards, applications, security, device roles, and use-case scenarios to enhance understanding of wireless connectivity and data exchange.
Which frequency band is primarily used by Bluetooth technology to enable short-range wireless communication between devices?
Explanation: Bluetooth uses the 2.4 GHz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band for wireless communication, which is globally available and widely used for short-range connections. The 5 GHz band is typically reserved for Wi-Fi, not Bluetooth. The 900 MHz UHF band and 1.8 GHz L-band are allocated for other wireless services and are not used by Bluetooth. This makes the 2.4 GHz ISM band the correct answer.
When pairing a Bluetooth headset with a smartphone, which method is commonly used to establish a secure connection?
Explanation: A PIN code authentication process is typically used during Bluetooth pairing to enhance security by verifying both devices. Infrared handshakes are not part of the Bluetooth protocol, though they are used in other technologies. NFC signaling and QR code scanning can assist with some wireless setups but are not standard methods used for Bluetooth headsets specifically. Therefore, PIN code authentication is the correct choice.
In a Bluetooth network, what role does a device playing the 'master' typically perform?
Explanation: The 'master' in a Bluetooth network is responsible for initiating connections and managing communication with 'slave' devices, controlling data flow and timing. Receiving and storing files is an application-level function, not specific to the master role. Boosting transmission range is not performed by the master; range is determined by hardware capabilities. Authenticating Wi-Fi networks is unrelated to Bluetooth. Thus, initiating and managing communication best describes the master’s function.
Which wireless protocol is primarily designed for secure, close-proximity transactions such as contactless payments and access control?
Explanation: NFC is specifically built for secure, extremely short-range interactions, making it ideal for applications like contactless payments and secure access. Wi-Fi Direct and Bluetooth Classic enable short-range communications but are not focused on secure, close-proximity transactions. UHF RFID is used for longer-range identification and tracking, not for secure transactions. Thus, NFC is the most accurate answer for this application.
What is a potential security risk when using Bluetooth-enabled devices in public spaces?
Explanation: Unauthorized pairing attacks like 'bluejacking' are a notable security risk in public environments, as they exploit discoverable Bluetooth connections for unsolicited messages or access. While reduced battery life can happen with any wireless communication, it is not a security risk. Loss of device IP address and display clarity are unrelated to Bluetooth security. Therefore, the greatest concern among these is unauthorized pairing attacks.