You are trying to access the Wi-Fi network at a coffee shop. What protocol will this type of wireless networking most likely use?

To determine the protocol most likely used for wireless networking at a coffee shop, you can consider the commonly used standards. In this case, the protocol you are looking for is most likely the Wi-Fi protocol.

Here's how you can find out the specific Wi-Fi protocol being used:

1. Check the Wi-Fi symbol: Look for the widely recognized Wi-Fi symbol, which appears as a series of curved lines, usually in the shape of an antenna. It is usually displayed on signs, windows, or menus indicating the availability of wireless internet.

2. Connect and check network properties: Connect your device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, or laptop) to the coffee shop's Wi-Fi network. Once connected, you can check the properties of the network connection.

For Windows:
- Click on the network connection icon in the system tray on the taskbar (usually bottom-right corner).
- Right-click on the coffee shop's Wi-Fi network name and select "Properties."
- In the properties window, look for the "Network protocol" or "Wireless protocol" section. There, you should find the specific Wi-Fi protocol being used, such as "802.11n," "802.11ac," or "802.11ax" (also known as Wi-Fi 4, Wi-Fi 5, or Wi-Fi 6, respectively).

For macOS:
- Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar (usually top-right corner).
- Hold the Option/Alt key and click on the coffee shop's Wi-Fi network name.
- In the information window that appears, look for the "PHY Mode" or "Supported PHY Modes" section. The protocol mentioned there will reveal the specific Wi-Fi standard.

For Android:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to the "Wi-Fi" or "Wireless & Networks" section.
- Tap on the coffee shop's Wi-Fi network.
- In the network details, you should find the "Network Frequencies" or "Wi-Fi Band" section, indicating the protocol, such as "2.4 GHz" (802.11n) or "5 GHz" (802.11ac or newer).

For iOS:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to the "Wi-Fi" section.
- Tap on the coffee shop's Wi-Fi network.
- In the network information, you may find details like "Model" or "Mode," specifying the Wi-Fi standard, such as "802.11ac" or "802.11ax."

By following these steps, you should be able to determine the specific Wi-Fi protocol being used at the coffee shop, which will help you understand the type of wireless networking employed.