Here are the differences between a wired and wireless Internet Router, and the reasons for choosing a cable or wireless router.
Wired Router
A wired home connection is one in which you use a Ethernet cable to connect the computers to the network router. The cable is used to route the high speed internet connection between your hi-speed modem/router and your devices such as Computer, laptop, TV, disk player, games system, etc.
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There are many who prefer a wired router for a few reasons (advantages) as mentioned here.
- Wired networks are usually less expensive
- They are faster than wireless networks.
- It is more secure; people can only connect if they can physically plug a device into your router.
However, the same cable is also its biggest disadvantage. Running Ethernet cables between rooms or floors is messy and challenging. It doesn’t look good and someone can trip over, if the cable is not laid properly.
In most countries, the biggest bottleneck is usually your Internet connection. So just switching to Ethernet may not speed up things much (if the internet connection in your area is slow anyways).
If you have a computer that sits at one place, or if you have a game console or set-top box that’s always near your TV, Ethernet is still a good option. You’ll get a more consistently solid connection.
Wireless Internet Router
A wireless router lets you access the internet wirelessly using the built-in antennae, so as long as you are on the wi-fi or the wireless network, you can get online at high speeds without having to plug-in to the router.
A wireless router is great because:
- You can connect to the network from anywhere (you have to be within range of the wireless router).
- A number of people can get online at the same time without having to plugin a wired connection
- With Wi-Fi, its all about convenience. If you want flexibility to move things around or you just don’t want to run a cable to it, Wi-Fi is the right choice.
Although, wireless home networks are a bit slower (compared to wired networks), they offer far more flexibility and ease of use.
Is security really a concern with Wi-Fi / wireless?
Theoretically, wired ones are more secure. But if you setup your wireless network with a password then it is unlikely that your neighbors will be able to hop on and use your internet connection for free).
Besides, most homes use both wired and wireless connections, so security is really a concern if you’re setting up some sort of secure business network.
Some routers let you isolate your wireless network from your wired one, but if you do that, certain devices may not be able to communicate with each other (depending on how things are set up).
Future Proofing Your Investment
I would recommend that you pick up a wireless one so that you are future proofing your investment. Lot of wireless routers give you the option of having a wired connection too. So you may either plug into one of the several Ethernet jacks and connect in a wired fashion or use the wi-fi via the antennae.
Also, buy a router that has several ports in the back. This will let you connect several devices to the router (older modems have only two or four Ethernet jacks in the back).
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