Comparisons Between a Wired and Wireless Network
There’s an ongoing discussion among companies on what makes a better network setup, wired, or wireless? Office workers’ access to information has substantially changed since the dial-up access period. Innovative technologies provide faster internet connections, but the current trend among end-users is should they opt for wireless solutions?
Is going wireless the most effective means to go? To help you decide which better fits your organization’s configuration, let’s look at both structures and consider their advantages and disadvantages.
Wired Network
A wired network connection utilizes cables to connect devices like desktop computers or laptops to the internet or other networks. The network cable is hooked up at one end to an Ethernet port on the network router and the other end to a computer device. One of the most typical wired networks uses twisted wire pairs, coaxial cable, or fiber optic installation.
Advantages
A wired configuration provides greater reliability and stability than a wireless one. Perhaps even wireless networks continue improving; they still can not match the integrity of a wired network. It is reliable because it’s not influenced by other interferences usually experienced by wireless configuration. Speed is also one of the advantages of a wired connection; it tends to be void of any dead spots.
Disadvantages
Lack of mobility would be just one of the disadvantages because of cables; depending on how often your office workers need to change office layout and reinstall wires again. Depending upon the size of the infrastructure, installation may be taxing. Maintenance-wise, you will not require a server if you have a small network. Nevertheless, a server is needed on more extensive infrastructure, adding hardware and upkeep expenses to you.
Wireless Network
Wireless configurations operate on microwave signals or radio frequencies. Radio signals enable devices to connect with one another without utilizing Ethernet cables.
Types of Wireless Networks
- Wireless Wide Area Networks (WWAN) – is the network used in mobile phone connections.
- Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) – the backbone network generally uses cables with wireless access points linking users to wired networks. Read more to learn about the application of this network,
- Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) – short-range networks that use Bluetooth technology has a typical range of about 30 feet.
Advantages
Cost-effectiveness is just one of the advantages; it requires much less equipment and installation time. A wireless network enables your staff members to work in remote areas. There are no inconveniences or cables that restrict your mobility. This configuration is perfect for construction site communication, the logistics division, or any workers needing to be linked, even working from another location from the office.
Disadvantages
Security is jeopardized since the transmissions are done through the air. Matched up to a wired network, wireless has a slower speed; a hybrid option is deployed using both wired and wireless infrastructure to remedy this issue. Wireless networks are prone to other interferences, making them less reliable and stable than their counterparts.
Conclusion
A wired network offers maximum security and optimal performance. If you’re not bothered about having plenty of wires in your workspace, then a wired connection is your cup of tea. You prefer speed and dependability over aesthetics. On the other side, the wireless connection is more pricey, but it offers mobility and a clutter-free workspace.
Anyway, both frameworks’ weaknesses can be compensated with their strength and distinct features. It will help you seek expert recommendations from IT professionals or communication companies with experience servicing both configurations to create impartial viewpoints.
