Two Types of Communication Networks

There’s an ongoing contention among companies on which makes a better network configuration, wired or wireless? Office workers’ access data has substantially transformed since the dial-up access period. Sophisticated modern 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 method to go? To help you decide which better suits your organization’s setup, let’s look at both setups and consider their advantages and disadvantages.

Wired Network

A wired network connection utilizes cabling installation 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 common wired networks uses twisted wire pairs, coax cable, or fiber optic cable.

Advantages

A wired setup provides greater dependability and stability than a wireless one. Even wireless networks keep improving; they still can not match the integrity of a wired network. It is reliable because it’s not affected by other interferences commonly experienced by wireless setup. Speed is also one of the advantages of a wired connection; it tends to void any dead spots.

Disadvantages

Lack of mobility would be just one of the disadvantages because of wires; depending on how frequently your office workers are required to change office layout and have to reinstall wires once more. Depending upon the size of the infrastructure, installation may be time-consuming. Maintenance-wise, you won’t require a server if you have a small network. Nevertheless, a server is necessary on more extensive infrastructure, adding hardware and upkeep costs to you.

Wireless Network

Wireless configurations operate on microwave signals or radio frequencies. Radio signals allow devices to interact with one another without using Ethernet cables.

Types of Wireless Networks

• Wireless Wide Area Networks (WWAN) – is the network applied in smartphone connections.
• Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)- the foundation network typically uses cables with wireless accessibility points connecting users to wired networks. Click here to find out what device uses this network.
• Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) – short-range networks that use Bluetooth technology typically range about 30 feet.

Advantages

Cost-effectiveness is one of the advantages; it requires less equipment and installation time. A wireless network allows your workers to work in remote places. There are no hassles or cables that limit your mobility. This configuration is suitable for communication in construction industry, the logistics division, or any employees required to be connected, even working from another location from the office.

Disadvantages

Security is compromised since the transmissions are done through the air. Matched up to a wired network, wireless has a slower speed; a hybrid solution is deployed using wired and wireless infrastructure to fix this issue. Wireless networks are prone to other disturbances, 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 cords in your workplace, then a wired connection is your cup of tea. You favor speed and reliability over appearances. On the other hand, the wireless connection is more expensive, but it offers mobility and a clutter-free work area.

Anyway, both frameworks’ weaknesses can be compensated with their strength and unique functions. It will help if you seek expert advice from IT professionals or communication businesses with experience dealing with both configurations to develop an objective point of view.