Wired Network Vs. Wireless Network – What is The Difference?

There are numerous ways in which a wireless network differentiates from a wired network. The one major difference, however, is that wired networks use cables while wireless networks use radio frequencies, to connect multiple devices.

In a world of ever-advancing technology, there is an increasing need to be connected. A network is formed when multiple devices are connected, transmitting information amongst each other. Looking at how the devices are linked, a network can either be wired or wireless. While wireless networks have over time gained popularity, some still prefer a wired network. But what exactly is a wired or wireless network?

Wired Network

Commonly known as Ethernet Network, a wired network comprises multiple devices connected and to the internet, through Ethernet cables. This network is considered the fastest wired network protocol with speeds of between 10Mbps-100Mbps.Devices in this network need a Network Interface Card (NIC) or Ethernet adapter (either internally or externally) to connect through an Ethernet cable. Some devices, however, come with an in-built Ethernet port so do not need an external adapter.

As per the arrangement of the devices, three common networking topologies can be used:

• Star network – involves a central hub or device to which every other device is directly connected to.
• Bus network – involves a single circuit that links all devices without the need for a central device.
• Ring network – involves multiple devices connected to form a loop and also does not need a central device.

Usually, in a small wired network like a home network, one router is enough to connect to all the devices. In a larger network, like in an organization, for example, you may need multiple routers or switches to connect to all the devices.

Wireless Network

As the name suggests, a wireless network does not need cables, rather, it involves multiple devices connected and to the internet using radio frequency signals. The signals work on two main frequencies, 2.4GHz and 5GHz that can transmit, each, at a speed of between 1-54Mbps.

 

There are two main types of wireless networks:

• Ad-hoc/peer-peer network – involves devices equipped with wireless networking interface card (internal or external). These allow them to connect and transmit data without the need for a cable.
• Infrastructure network – involves a central access point that can connect both wireless and wired devices. It’s a bridge that allows these devices to transmit data to each other.

Like with a wired network, wireless networks can use only one router in a small network, but in a large network, the wireless signal and range can be increased using boosters and extenders.\

In What Ways Do They Differentiate?

Aside from the fact that wired networks use cables and wireless networks use radio frequency, there are still many differences between the two networks. Below is a summary of various aspects where the two networks differentiate:

Aspect	Wired Network	·         Wireless Network
Mobility	Limited mobility. ·         Devices in this network are connected using a cable. Therefore, using two connected devices in different locations is difficult without extra cable or switches.	Increased mobility. ·         Devices in this network are connected via radiofrequency. This allows you to use two connected devices in different locations as long as they are within range.
Reliability	More reliable. ·         This network experience less interference from other devices or networks. The reason is that each device is connected directly with a cable.	Less reliable. ·         Because this network uses radio frequencies, it is more prone to interference from other devices or networks using the same frequency. However, there have been developments of different channels that can be used to reduce this interference.
Security	More secure. ·         Data packets transmitted in this network travel in the safety of cables connected directly to the device. This limits the chances of corrupting the data or risking the security of the network.	Less Secure ·         Data packets in this network are broadcasted to the multiple devices connected. The openness of this transmission makes it prone to corruption and makes the network vulnerable to intrusion since it is a shared frequency.
Installation	Longer and costlier installation process. ·         Installing this network requires numerous pieces of equipment, especially depending on the size of the network. It would therefore cost more to purchase the equipment and longer to install.	Shorter and cheaper installation process. ·         Because this network does not require cables, it already reduces the equipment needed to be purchased and installed. Making the installation easier.
Maintenance	Higher maintenance for large networks. ·         Larger networks would mean more cables and devices. This would require enlisting a team of professionals to service and maintain the devices in the network.	Less maintenance even for larger networks. ·         A larger network simply entails boosting the signal of the frequency to a wider range. This does not require that much maintenance.
Speed	·         Faster. ·         Each device is connected by a separate cable and the network does not experience interference, making transmission equal and faster.	·         Slower. ·         The same frequency is broadcasted to multiple devices, therefore, slowing it down. Additionally, the network is prone to interference hence can be burdened with unexpected traffic.

Conclusion.

In as much as the two networks are different, when it boils down to it, they each have equal pros and cons. So, you cannot say one is better than the other. With ever-developing and improving technology, soon there won’t be much of a difference between them. At the end of the day, all that will matter is what your needs are and which network best fits those needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1.    Is a Wi-Fi network the same as a wireless network?

Wi-Fi is a wireless network technology that transmits data by broadcasting it to connected devices in the network. Wireless network, on the other hand, is the connection of these devices using radiofrequency.

2.    Can I have a wired and wireless network simultaneously?

Yes, you can. You’ll need a wireless router with Ethernet ports that will allow you to use both wired and wireless devices.