Wireless versus Ethernet networks

In recent years, Ethernet hasnt exactly been fashionable. People are sick of running long wires all over the place, making holes in their walls, and being restricted when it comes to where they can use their computer. Wireless networking has become all the rage and some predict that it will have killed off Ethernet altogether within a few years.

Wireless networking works by transmitting radio waves through the air. While it isnt yet strong enough to provide networking for a large area, it is quite possible and cheap to set up a cheap wireless networking system large enough to cover an entire house, using nothing more than a wireless router and a wireless card in each computer you want to use on the network. Newer laptops even come with wireless capabilities completely integrated in the form of Intel Centrino, so you can easily connect to wireless networks wherever you go.

Of course, wireless also has its fair share of downsides. Sure, Ethernet requires ugly wires strewn all over the place, but its also much faster, more stable and more reliable. For large businesses or small businesses that have already had all the wires hidden away in their walls, there is little reason to change over to wireless now. Ethernet is also often more secure wireless networks are often left unsecured, meaning that anyone can drive past and connect to them. While Ethernet networks can be insecure as well, the network intruder at least has to be inside the building in most cases, not sitting in a car outside.

In turn, wireless networking removes a lot of niggles from Ethernet. The best thing is that you no longer have to worry about wires getting damaged somehow and needing to be tracked down for replacement. Ultimately, which one you use will depend on how adventurous you are, and exactly what you plan to do with your network.

John Gibb is the owner of ethernet resources For more information on ethernet check out http://www.ethernet-intelligence.info

Wireless Network Cards
Network cards are the backbone of any network. The Network interface card or the network card is a hardware device that allows a computer to be connected to a network, and through the network to other computers and devices. It is installed in one of the free peripheral connect interface (PCI) slots of a computer and includes a port in which the networking cable is inserted. There are different NICs for different networks even if the computer i...

Wireless How To - Expanding The Wired Network
Wireless network design is the process of generating a layout of hubs and links within an environment to ensure desired network availability and flow capacity. Designing one of these networks is quite different from a wired network design by taking advantage of some of the most advanced RF design kits and process technologies in the industry. Designs for wireless networks are based principally on projected subscriber density, desired coverage a...

Wireless Internet Providers
Going wireless seems to be the trend nowadays. From cellular phones to notepads, joining the fad of losing the cables and connections is the Internet.Many companies and businesses are offering customers wireless Internet access in homes. If you are a subscriber to wireless Internet access, you probably know that this type of access gives you the chance to access the Internet without having to connect and use cables and wires. You dont have to wai...

A Simple Guide to Wireless Networking
Most folks want that laptop for work, school, or college. Most laptops these days are Wi-Fi enabled. That means that they have the wireless hardware and software built into the computer. To the average consumer, wireless is a form of magic. You turn it on and it works, right? Not always. Understanding the basics to wireless will help avoid frustration and headaches.First, before we get into the basics of wireless networking, I have a few opinions...

How to Protect Your Wireless Network
How to Protect your Wireless NetworkHaving a home wireless network means that you can say goodbye to ethernet cables forever and turn every room into your office. But if you dont have the right security half your neighbours could end up poaching your broadband.Protecting your network is essential if you want to keep your broadband fast, private and hacker-free.There are a few ways to protect yourself and there are also different levels of securit...