WIFI VS. HARD WIRED-Getting the Best of Both Worlds
A robust home networking setup combines both Wi-Fi and wired connections for optimal performance.
Both Wi-Fi and hard-wired connections have a crucial place in a modern home network. Wi-Fi offers unmatched convenience and mobility, letting you move freely without cables. However, its speed and reliability can vary based on distance, interference from other devices, or even physical obstructions.
Connection type
Wi-Fi uses wireless signals, while hard wiring uses cables.
Mobility
Wi-Fi allows users to move around freely while connected to a network, while hard wiring requires a device to be plugged into a router with a cable.
Speed
Hard wiring is generally faster than Wi-Fi because there’s a direct connection between the device and the router, while Wi-Fi relies on radio waves that may have to travel a longer distance. Hard wiring service providers can offer speeds of 10 Gbps or more, while Wi-Fi connections are theoretically limited to 6.9 Gbps, but may actually max out at less than 1 Gbps.
Reliability
Hard wiring connections are more reliable than Wi-Fi because they don’t have to compete with other devices on the network and aren’t susceptible to interference.
Security
Hard wire cables connect directly from the device to the router, making it less likely for hackers to intercept data.
Convenience
Wi-Fi is more convenient because it doesn’t require plugging into a router, but some may find the tangle of wires under a desk inconvenient.
Cost
Both Wi-Fi and Hard wiring can be cheap or expensive, depending on the environment and needs. For example, Wi-Fi range extenders can be expensive and may retransmit degraded signals.
In general, a wired connection will be faster than a WiFi connection. That’s because there’s a direct, dedicated connection between the device and the router. There’s nothing standing in the way of that data getting where you need it to go. Then, with a WAP, you can connect wirelessly into the LAN which gives you the best of both worlds.
A secure home networking environment protects your data and ensures a smooth user experience.