Internet of course runs the show in the world today, with almost everything going online. Whether it is shopping, teaching, learning, earning, or even entertainment, a large part of it is basically over the internet. A business setting, of course, needs internet and the best of the best, because they always need to keep in touch with their customers. Any downtime or instability can mean the loss of hard-earned business and clients.
When we talk about internet connectivity, there are mainly two ways to go about it. Wired and wireless internet. Both of these internet technologies are unique in their own way, bringing you an internet connection in different ways. Each has a set of advantages and disadvantages that contribute a great deal to the service. Depending upon what you have available in your region for your business, you can choose either service. However, it is good to know the ins and outs of whatever you choose so you know what would be the best course of action to take.
In this article, we talk about wired and wireless internet at length and how well each works in business settings. Hopefully, this will help you make the wisest of decisions for your great business ideas in 2022!
What is wired internet?
In the simplest of sense, a wired internet connection is labeled as a network configuration that uses cables to form a connection to the Internet as well as other devices. The data transfer from one device to another or over the Internet is primarily done using Ethernet (connection) cables.
Benefits of using a wired connection
Since a wired internet works basically with wires, it does have a few upsides that deserve mention. Some of the benefits that you can get with a wired internet connection for your business include;
- Reliability: Wired connections are usually more reliable and stable than other options when they work properly. Since their signal is independent of external agents and sources, wired internet connections perform better on stability tests. A connection is not just lost out of the blue, which sometimes is a problem with some connections.
- Speed: On average, wired internet connections are very fast, much more so than wireless networks. And, the speeds continue to improve, with better routers coming into the market every year. For instance, Xfinity internet speed can reach gig speeds, which is a lot more than can be said for most wireless networks. Wired networks are also able to eliminate dead spots within your house.
- Security: Most wired connections come with a security suite or at a bare minimum some kind of firewalls. They are usually well-protected from unauthorized access. Since the network is under constant monitoring, any suspicious activity is immediately picked up, informed, and eradicated.
- Installation costs: Wired internet connections do come with some installation costs. However, when we talk about wireless connections, this initial cost pales in comparison. Wireless internet has some of the greatest installation costs seen anywhere in the US market. The antenna and all that stuff can become quite expensive when considered together.
Disadvantages of using a wired network
It is not possible to have something with only benefits and no downsides. Likewise, there are certain limitations to what a wired internet service can get you. These include;
- Absence of mobility: Wired connections run mainly on cables and wires and hence, tend to be a bit inflexible. In order to access it, you and your workers need extra cables to your computers. Depending on your office layout this can sometimes be a little difficult.
- Maintenance costs: Wired connections do not have expensive setup costs but maintenance can be draining. Different device configurations mean a proper server setup that takes time and energy to monitor, increasing the end cost of your business.
- Unaesthetic: Not to sound like a capricious Gen Z, but wires and cables running along the length of your office can be a tad disturbing. It is unsightly and unbecoming and if not properly concealed, can pretty quickly ruin the aura of your office space.
What is wireless internet?
Wireless internet is a way of internet delivery through radio frequency or microwave signals. They operate through radio signals which then allow wireless devices to communicate with the Internet and each other without the need for an Ethernet cable.
Benefits of wireless internet
Wireless internet does have quite a few benefits that you can consider if you want to invest in it for your business. These advantages include;
- Installation: A wireless network has a faster and easier installation protocol than wired connections. It requires less equipment that can be arranged quickly. Also, you do not have to connect each device to an Ethernet cable individually which is a big plus.
- Mobility: One of the top reasons to consider wireless internet is because of all the mobility it offers. It can allow your office workers to be more flexible and mobile around the office. There are no hassles with cable connections and all the absence of them makes your office look a lot neater too.
Disadvantages of wireless internet
As great services as wireless internet offers, it does have several limitations. Quite a few actually, which cannot be physically ignored. These include;
- Visibility: A big downside with wireless internet is that the receiver and the transmitter of the internet signals should be visible to each other. If they are not, there can be obstructions and interference. Unfortunately, in busy metro cities, this can mean greatly compromised wireless internet service.
- Security: Wireless internet connections are generally less secure than wired networks because they are not as closely monitored. Since the signal travels as a radio wave it is easy to intercept and modify. However, there are certain measures that can be taken to try and make a wireless network more secure.
- Stability: Wireless networks are less reliable and stable than wired internet connections. They are easily intercepted and are prone to interference from other devices and networks. The strength of the signal varies depending upon the visibility of the transmitter and more things. The latency which you experience with a wireless internet network hence can vary from region to region which is not always a good thing.
Wrapping up…
If your business just took off and the cost of your internet choice is a concern, a wired network is the way to go. Especially if you need maximum security and great performance, nothing other than a wired network can give that to you. Cable internet or fiber work best under the circumstances. Speed is of the essence to consider here too, which is best with wired networks. Like Xfinity internet speed can give you everything you dream about and then some. If you don’t have any major concerns regarding mobility, a wired connection will surely serve your office needs well.
On the other hand, there are certain places where a wireless internet network comes in handy too. Especially if you do not have initial and set up costs reservations and prefer mobility, there is no better alternative than wireless internet. And, if you are concerned about the outlook of the office to new people and unbecoming cables and wiring, a wireless network is probably your best bet.
The point is, both these technologies for the internet have certain baggage. The ultimate decision will always lie in your personal preference for either.
So, there is no right answer, just go for what you like best!
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