Ethernet Vs. USB FAQ
As broadband Internet service coverage continues to increase, computer users are faced with the option of connecting their cable modems using a USB port or the Ethernet connector. However, they may not know which option is best. Both are easy to use and can provide reliable connections, but Ethernet is a communication standard designed to provide a more satisfying Internet experience.
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Is Ethernet and USB Available on All Computers?
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Most current, pre-configured computers have an Ethernet card and multiple USB connectors already installed. However, since broadband Internet service is still not available everywhere, it is possible your computer may not have an Ethernet card, particularly if it's an older computer. USB has been a common feature since 1996.
What is the Range?
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Ethernet cables are usually longer, as they can provide consistent, high-quality data transfer over a greater distance. Ethernet cables can be up to 328 feet (100 meters) long without data transfer problems, allowing them to extend anywhere in most homes and small offices.
USB cables are limited to approximately 16 feet (5 meters). A longer cable would result in reduced data quality, causing communication problems.
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What is the Cost?
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There is no advantage for either type, as both cables cost approximately the same. However, if your computer does not have an Ethernet connection, cards are inexpensive (approximately $20 to $30) and easy to install.
Are Drivers Needed?
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If you have an Ethernet card already installed, the network drivers will also be installed. If you install an Ethernet card, the computer automatically detects the card and launches a hardware configuration wizard to help you set up the card and install drivers. When the wizard is complete, you are ready to use the Ethernet connection.
USB also require drivers to operate, and will already be installed for your USB connectors. However, you need a second driver for the device plugged into the connector. Current operating systems (Windows XP, Vista, etc.) install this driver automatically when the device is attached.
How Does the Speed Compare?
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Ethernet connections transfer data from 10 megabits per second (Mbps) to 1000 Mbps. However, 100 Mbps is the most common transfer rate. USB 1.0 connections transfer data at 12 Mbps, and USB 2.0 transfers data up to 480 Mbps.
However, since the typical transfer rate for broadband service ranges from 3 Mbps to 5 Mbps, either USB or Ethernet should work with approximately the same results.
How Does the Reliability Compare?
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USB ports must share their total bandwidth for all devices connected to the computer---this can add up if you have several USB devices. Ethernet connections are dedicated to network/Internet data transfer. USB data transfers are also harder on the computer's processor. Ethernet data transfers cause little strain on the processor. These two factors can cause sluggish transfer rates for USB connections.
What Are the Hardware Requirements?
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Most current computers are equipped with multiple USB ports. However, many devices can use USB: keyboards, mice, printers, scanners, external hard drives and digital cameras, easily taking up all available ports and leaving no room for a modem. Ethernet has no other function than network/Internet connections. It's a better idea to use the Ethernet connector, leaving a USB port free for another device.
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