Wireless DSL Modem Vs. Wired

A DSL modem offers high-speed Internet access over a conventional telephone line.

Some home and business owners may wish to install DSL modems to provide Internet connections to more than one computer or device. This will require weighing the pros and cons of a wired network versus a wireless network and choosing between the two.

Identification

A wired DSL modem connects to a wall outlet via a standard phone cord and two one or more computers using standard Ethernet cable. A wireless local area network or LAN with DSL service will include one or more computers or other devices that connect to the network using an internal or external wireless network card. The wireless signal may originate from an additional piece of hardware -- a wireless router -- or a combination wireless router/DSL modem.

Advantages

A wired DSL network ensures that all devices are always connected to the network. The signal does not weaken when passing through walls, furniture or other objects, as is the case with a wireless network. On the other hand, a wireless network allows users to connect at their convenience without having to make physical connections through dozens or hundreds of feet of networking cable.

Considerations

Frequently, home and small business owners use a wired DSL modem in combination with a wireless router. A single computer may still connect to the router via cable to allow customization of the network settings. While the Internet service provider typically supplies the DSL modem, the consumer can purchase a wired or wireless router from any electronics retailer or computer store.

Security

No person or computer can access a wired DSL network without physically connecting to the modem or router with an Ethernet cable. This makes a wired network very secure. However, anyone can connect to an unsecured wireless network and then access files on the network or use the network's Internet connection. A wireless LAN can be secured by enabling WPA encryption in the router's control panel.

References

• Windows: Set up a DSL or cable connection
• Home WLAN: WEP vs WPA - What is better solution?