Advantages and disadvantages of wireless network

A few years back, devices such as computers used to exchange resources and information with one another through wired connections. Things have changed over time since most devices now rely on wireless networks.

Though wired connections were reliable, they have a lot of limitations. Since devices needed more flexibility, technology led to wireless networks that could give devices more mobility. Different devices can now communicate with one another without the need for any physical media in wireless networks. Choosing a wireless network for your home or office can help you enjoy a lot. Though this network has a lot of benefits, it is not perfect. You should therefore weigh the merits against its demerits before choosing this option. Learn more.

Introduction to a wireless network

In a wireless network, devices don’t need a lot of cables to transmit data between themselves. They use radio waves to receive and transmit data between them. These radio waves are a major component in the electromagnetic spectrum. The devices connected to a wireless network have signals that enable them to share resources and exchange information more conveniently.

Wireless networks come in different forms, such as W-LAN, W-MAN, W-WAN, and WPAN. Local area networks commonly referred to as LAN can connect various devices found in a building. The Metropolitan area network (MAN) connects different wireless LANs. Networks that can cover a large area like town are referred to as Wide Area Network (W- WAN). You can also have a personal area network that connects certain devices in your proximity. For example, connecting your laptop to a wireless mouse forms part of WPAN.

What are the merits of a wireless network?

Mobility

One reason why many people choose a wireless network over a wired one is mobility. If, for instance, you use a wireless network in your office, your staff can change their desk with ease without having to keep on switching cabling or adding extra cabling.

Thanks to the introduction of wireless public networks, you get the chance to access the internet even when you are not in your work environment. You can therefore choose to work outside the office if your job permits it. Feel free to connect your laptop to the wireless connection in a coffee shop and complete your job when you want to work from a friendlier environment. A wireless network can allow different devices to use a similar internet connection even remotely. It makes sharing resources and files much easier than using a wired network.

Productivity

An increase in mobility can, in turn, lead to enhanced productivity at places of work. Letting staff members use a wireless network can help them collaborate better and complete their tasks easily. Being able to accomplish tasks from different locations can make the company employees more productive.

Can lead more customers

If you are running a hotel business, having wireless connectivity can also help you gain more customers. This is because many customers enjoy using wireless networks that are offered in such business premises since they increase convenience. Offering such services can, therefore, lead to increased business sales.

Scalability

A wireless network gives you the chance to increase the number of devices without extra cabling. If, for instance, you add new employees to your company, a wireless network allows you to scale without having to spend more on additional cabling. Since this type of network does not have complicated setup requirements or huge infrastructure, it can save you extra effort and time. You only need a router and the different devices to complete the set up during scaling. Expanding the wireless network is, therefore, a breeze.

The disadvantages of a wireless network

Security

Though a wireless network may seem like the solution to all your problems, you should beware of security issues that come with it. A wireless network works by transmitting data over the air. It is, therefore, more prone to data leak than a wired network.  Hackers often target people who use wireless networks. Though security is a serious problem with wireless networks, you can combat this by using different encryption technologies. Using an encryption system can prevent you from cyber-attacks.

Unreliable performance

Compared to cable networks, wireless networks are not very reliable. For instance, your router uses the same radio waves that other devices in your home use. This can cause interference, which in turn leads to disturbance in communication.  When interference problems occur, you may not be able to rely on a wireless network, especially when doing high bandwidth activities such as gaming. Other things, such as leakage of signals or bad weather, can also affect a wireless network’s performance. These tend to corrupt or distort the wireless signal leading to poor performance.

Range and less speed

In a wireless network, the communication range is less compared to a wired network. The further you move from the range of network sources, the more the signal strength decreases. This makes the connected devices not give their best performance. You can, however, increase the range by adding more wireless access points or investing in repeaters.

This means that you have to incur more costs after setting up the network. You should also consider positioning the wireless devices within the optimum range. Many people who use wireless networks keep on reporting speed issues compared to those that rely on cabled LAN.

Summary

Merits of wireless network	Demerits of a wireless network
It is convenient and more mobile Can lead to more productivity or growth in business Easy to scale	Security issues It is less reliable Less range and speed problems

Conclusion

Most people continue choosing a wireless network over wired connections in their homes and work premises. This is because a wireless network increases convenience and can help you save. It also creates less clutter and is easy to scale.

FAQs

What are wired devices?

These refer to electronic devices that can be connected to the network directly through a physical means such as cable.

Can you set up a wireless network on your own?

Yes. A wireless network is easy to set up and does not need professional expertise.