Several technologies are used to access the internet. Most people nowadays use Wi-Fi, while others use Ethernet services. These are two different technologies that are gaining a high demand for both business and personal use. But what are the differences between these two? Here’s what you may need to know.
What Is WiFi?
Wi-Fi, short for Wireless Fidelity, is a network based on 802.11 standards. These are different types of networks that enable computers and devices with a specified wireless capacity to communicate with each other via radio waves. The 802.11 network standards were established by IEEE. They describe how two wireless devices can interact with each other wirelessly. Apart from computers and mobile phones, Wi-Fi can also be used to connect gaming consoles, printers, and even fridges.
What Is Ethernet?
Ethernet is a widely utilized local area network standard. Unlike Wi-Fi, ethernet services are defined under 802.3 standards. Ethernet is quite easy to understand and implement. Most ethernet technologies use Bus Topology. However, other topologies can be used as well. Ethernet was first standardized in the 1980s by IEEE, and it has two basic categories. This includes classic Ethernet and switched Ethernet. The former is the original form of Ethernet. It provides data rates that are between three to ten Mbps. Switched Ethernet utilizes different switches to connect to various stations in the local area network.
What Are the Differences Between Wi-Fi and Ethernet Services?
There are several differences between these two connections. The first and obvious one is how devices connect to each type of network. Wi-Fi allows nearby devices to connect and share an internet connection. On the other hand, Ethernet is a local area network, and it’s wired, unlike Wi-Fi which is wireless. The second difference lies in the IEEE standards that define each network type. Wi-Fi is based on 802.11 specifications, while Ethernet is based on 802.3 specifications. These are some of the differences between Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi is highly flexible. As you might have guessed, this is because devices can connect without wires and ports. However, the absence of wires makes it less efficient. It often has latency in network connections. On the other hand, Ethernet is quite efficient, and it delivers more impressive speeds. Are you interested in learning more about the differences between Ethernet and Wi-Fi to find out how to apply both in your business? Get in touch with us today.
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