Wireless Internet Vs. Non-Wireless Internet

To connect to the Internet, you have two options: wired or wireless. The number of computers accessing the Internet on your network, the modem type, and preferred portability will determine which to choose.

Wired Internet

A wired connection is made when the modem is connected directly into the computer with an Ethernet cable.

Wireless Internet

An external modem with a wireless router, or a modem/wireless router combination are used for wireless Internet connections.

Advantages

Wired Internet offers solid, often faster Internet connections since it is a straight connection from the Internet to the computer.

Wireless Internet connections offer flexibility of use; laptops can be used anywhere within reception range of the wireless transceiver.

Disadvantages

Wired connections are limited; each computer needs a wireless transceiver and the modem needs a router and a hub.

Wireless connections can be less reliable than wired connections. Wireless modems and routers must be located in an optimized signal area, which might be an inconvenient place in your home.

Which To Choose

A computer with a nearby modem is fine using a wired connection; otherwise, a wireless Internet connection is a better option. Combining wired and wireless connections offers flexibility of wireless for laptops and a more solid, wired connection for desktop computers.

References

• Wireless Vs. Wired

Resources

• Linksys Learning Center