Cable vs. Wireless: The Networks Battle
By: DreamWorld Solutions
For many years, cable has remained number one in the battle when it comes to networking set up. In the past few years, the wireless network has become the number one challenger in this case. People can argue until they’re blue in the face about which is better for home or office networking, so we decided that it’s time to lay the whole argument to rest by offering our very own un-biased analysis. Before we start, it is probably best to define what the cable network and wireless network is
In regards to office or home networking, cable usually refers to the physical Ethernet cables. For other applications it can also mean coaxial copper cables but in this case let’s just stick to Ethernet cables. Ethernet cables are used to create wired local area networks (LANs) that use hubs, switches or routers to connect multiple computers. A network based on cables requires that the devices be physically connected through the cable. The wireless network on the other hand do not require the devices to be connected by cables. Instead they are connected through network devices that transmit signals through antennas. Wireless LANs or WLANs use three types of Wi-Fi standards to communicate: 802.11a, 802.11b or 802.11g.
In order for one to decide which to implement, cable or wireless, one must first consider a few important facts in the case.
Ease of Installation
Installing a wired network does not require any more skill than wiring a home theater system. But then again, most of us probably had someone else install the home theater in the living room. The greatest difficulty with installing wired networks is when running cable to different locations and computers. It can be time consuming and cumbersome if the proper ducting or space is not available. You also have to take into consideration the type of devices being used on the network and the type of internet connection. The more complex the network that is being built, the more difficult it becomes for beginners to implement a cable based network. Cables can be unsightly and are often in the way if not installed properly. Although, once the cable is installed, it is fairly easy to connect computers and other devices together. A wireless network on the other hand can be a breeze to install, only needing a few important supplies like a modem and wireless router. If the wireless network needs to access other devices, a central node is required. Additionally, each device connected to the network needs a wireless network adapter. Once both the cable and wireless network is connected, they have similar requirements and use internet protocol to transfer data.
Cost
Cost is always the big question for both business and home networks. Cable networks require Ethernet cables, hubs, switches and in some cases routers. All this equipment is fairly inexpensive when compared to wireless network equipment. Wireless equipment can cost three to four times more than their wired counterparts.
Reliability
Cable based networks and equipment has proven itself extremely reliable. This is due to the fact that cable has been around for years, and manufacturers have had plenty of time to fine tune their products. Hubs, switches and routers are also fairly reliable and more often than not, the biggest issue in a wired network is a loose cable. Wireless on the other hand is a relatively newer technology and still has some reliability problems, with interference from other devices being the biggest concern. Many users also report issues with the fluctuation in signal strength of a wireless network. If a network is designed so that all the wireless network devices are within range of the signal and other devices are kept separate, the risk of interference can be reduced significantly.
Performance
Ethernet cables are more than sufficient for any small business or home network. An average Ethernet cable offers 10 Mbps of bandwidth but 100 Mbps cables are also available. Hubs can experience problems from heavy use but the installation of a switch can easily solve the problem. Wireless LANs that employ 802.11b have a theoretical bandwidth of 11 Mbps. 802.11a and 802.11g WLANs give 54 Mbps of bandwidth. The bandwidth can vary within the network depending on where the wireless device is being used, resulting in the bandwidth degrading as the device is moved further away from the signal.
Security
Security is one of the most important issues in this case. Wireless network devices are theoretically less secure because the wireless signal can be easily picked up. Of course encryption can keep your signal secure. Cable on the other hand is more secure because anyone that wants to intercept the signal needs to be physically connected to the cable. If proper precautions are used, the wireless network can be reasonably secure and comparable to cable.
Demand
The demand for cable and wireless is dependent on the type of users. Cable is many times the preferred choice because of cost, reliability and because it has proven its worth. For those that have unique needs and are early adopters, a wireless network provides incredible mobility and flexibility. With the market trends favoring wireless network devices in general, wireless has a bright future ahead of it. Mixed solutions are available and new wireless routers have ports for cables too. This allows desktops to be connected by cable to the router and all other wireless devices or laptops to connect to the network through Wi-Fi, which allows for multiple users to benefit from the general features of a network.
The Jury is Out
The choice of cable or wireless is probably best answered by looking at the environment in which the network needs to be deployed. If the network is for an office with desktops, printers and internet then cable is probably a good choice. Ducting for cables can be installed in an office setting without disturbing every day processes too much. Cable networks at home might be cumbersome because everyday life like pets, kids and carpets can get in the way, while a wireless network allows you to surf the internet while sitting at the dining table or on the couch.
Cable technology will probably never disappear from the scene because it has huge head start on wireless technologies. The growth of Telecommunications world wide will create immense demand for cable in general. Nevertheless, wireless networks have proven that their mobility and flexibility can out weight the negative points. With better and newer devices hitting store shelves every month, wireless network technology and networks are making a place for themselves at home and in the office.
