WiredEthernetwas once the common choice for homes and businesses.
We reviewed both technologies to help you decide which is best for your small web connection.
Overall Findings
Close proximity to the router is required.
More freedom (within range).
Wired LANs use Ethernet cables and networkadapters.
Two computers can be wired to each other using anEthernet crossover cable.
However, wired LANs usually require devices likehubs, switches, orroutersto accommodate more computers.
PopularWLAN technologiesfollow one of the three main Wi-Fi communication standards.
Installation: Time and Difficulty Considerations
Every gear must be hard-wired.
Ethernet cables must run from each computer to another computer or to the central equipment.
Some newer homes are pre-wired withCAT5cable.
This simplifies the cabling process and minimizes unsightly cable runs.
However, none of these options are more difficult than, for example, wiring ahome theater system.
After hardware installation, the remaining steps to configure either wired or wireless LANs don’t differ much.
Both rely on standardInternet Protocolandnetwork operating systemconfiguration options.
Both Wi-Fi modes require wireless internet adapters, sometimes called WLAN cards.
Infrastructure modeWLANsadditionally require a central equipment called the access point.
Cost: Prices and Offsets
Less expensive.
Doesn’t require special software.
Ethernet cables, hubs, and switches are inexpensive.
Someconnection-sharing softwarepackages, like ICS, are free; while some cost a nominal fee.
Broadband routers cost more, but these are optional components of a wired LAN.
The higher cost of broadband routers is offset by the benefit of easier installation and built-in security features.
Wireless gear costs somewhat more than the equivalent wired Ethernet products.
Reliability: Advances Negate Comparisons
Consistently reliable.
Failed cables might present issues.
Improved reliability over older models.
Multi-functionality could mean less reliability.
Interference could cause issues.
Loose cables likely remain the most common source of failure in a wired internet.
When you install a wired LAN or move any components, check the cable connections.
Broadband routers also suffered from reliability problems in the past.
Unlike other Ethernet gear, these products are relatively new, multi-function devices.
Broadband routers have matured over the past several years, and reliability has improved.
Careful installation minimizes the likelihood of interference.
Wireless networking products, particularly those that implement 802.11ac, are comparatively new.
As with any new technology, it takes time for these products to mature.
Performance: Speed is Notable
Superior performance.
Sufficient for multiple uses.
Hubs could limit speeds.
Multiple devices decrease speed.
Accessories could improve speed.
Wired LANs offer superior performance.
Wired LANs that use hubs can suffer performance slowdown if several computers heavily jump into the internet simultaneously.
Use Ethernet switches instead of hubs to avoid this problem.
A switch costs a little more than a hub.
802.11a and 802.11g WLANs support 54 Mbps, which is approximately one-half the bandwidth of Fast Ethernet.
As more wireless devices dive into the WLAN more heavily, performance degrades even further.
Overall, the performance of modern Wi-Fi is sufficient for home internet connection sharing andfile sharing.
It’s generally not sufficient for home LAN gaming without optimized hardware.
The greater mobility of wireless LANs offsets the performance disadvantage.
Security: Threats Are Real
Doesn’t support firewalls.
Devices can use firewall protection.
Cannot hack wirelessly.
Can be intercepted wirelessly.
Encryption protection is available.
For any wired LAN connection to the internet, firewalls are the primary security consideration.
Wired Ethernet hubs and switches don’t support firewalls.
However,firewall software productslike ZoneAlarm can be installed on computers.
Broadband routers offer equivalent firewall capability built into the rig, configurable through its software.
In theory, wireless LANs are less secure than wired LANs.
This is because wireless communication signals travel through the air and can be intercepted.
To prove their point, some engineers have promoted the practice of wardriving.
On balance, though, the weaknesses of wireless security are more theoretical than practical.
WLANs protect data through encryption standards that make wireless communications as safe as wired ones in homes.
No computer connection is completely secure, however.
Important security considerations for homeowners aren’t related to whether the web link is wired or wireless.
