Wired vs. Wireless Routers

When it comes to networking for the home or small business, you can either go wired or wireless. In the past, many have chose wired technology, but especially in home offices, wireless technology is on the rise. There’s advantages and disadvantages to each type of technology, and we’ll go through them in this article so you can make an informed decision which is right for you.

About Wired Systems

Wired systems use Ethernet cables and network adapters. In order to accommodate more computers on the network, a hub or router is needed. Installation of wired networks can be difficult and time-consuming. Ethernet cables must be run from computer to computer, which can be difficult when the computers sit in different rooms. It used to be where you’d have to run cables along the ceiling, floor or wall; however, many new homes come with a CAT5 cable, which greatly simplifies the installation process. Once the hardware is installed, there’s not much difference between the installation of wired or wireless systems. Both rely on standard Internet Protocol and network operating system configuration options.

Wired systems are inexpensive, as Ethernet cable and hubs don’t cost a lot. If you were to get the option broadband router, it would cost a little more, but it would still be worth it for the ease of installation and security measures that comes with a broadband router, such as a firewall.

Ethernet cables and hubs are extremely reliable pieces of equipment and worth the investment. Over the last ten years, broadband modems have improved greatly in reliability as well.

Fast Ethernet costs a little more, but it provides 100 Mbps in bandwidth. Traditional Ethernet only provides 10 Mbps in bandwidth. Wired LANs with hubs can experience performance issues if many people are competing for the same bandwidth, so use switches instead.

About Wireless

Wireless systems can be installed either peer-to-peer (ad hoc mode) or with a central node (infrastructure mode). Ad hoc is okay for basic file sharing between computers, but if something such as a printer is needed, then infrastructure mode is necessary.

Wi-fi requires a wireless adapter and a central device called an access point.  Wireless gear can be considerably more costly than Ethernet equipment, though wireless technology continues to decrease in price.

Wireless LANs suffer a few more reliability issues than wired networks, as they may receive interference from common household items such as the microwave. However, the reliability issues usually aren’t large enough to make a big concern.

Now that you know a little about each system, which is right for you? If you are cost-conscious and care more about performance than mobility, than a wired Ethernet system would be your best bet. If you need mobility and cost is less of an issue, then perhaps wireless is your best bet.

Having problems deciding which type of LAN system is best for you? Contact Computer Doc for our expert advice now!

Wired vs. Wireless Routers

Wired vs. Wireless Routers