Ethernet of WiFi? Choosing between them is really confusing. Ethernet is the traditional technology for connecting devices in a wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN), enabling them to communicate with each other via a protocol — a set of rules or common network language. Where WiFi is a wireless technology that connects devices to the internet without any physical wired connection. Introduced in 1999, it is the most popular type of connection used today. Both of the two connections have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Ethernet
Ethernet is the traditional technology for connecting devices in a wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN), enabling them to communicate with each other via a protocol — a set of rules or common network language. Ethernet describes how network devices can format and transmit data so other devices on the same local or campus area network segment can recognize, receive and process the information. An Ethernet cable is the physical, encased wiring over which the data travels.
Connected devices accessing a geographically localized network with a cable — that is, with a wired rather than wireless connection — likely use Ethernet. From businesses to gamers, diverse end users depend on the benefits of Ethernet connectivity, which include reliability and security.
Compared to wireless LAN (WLAN) technology, Ethernet is typically less vulnerable to disruptions. It can also offer a greater degree of network security and control than wireless technology since devices must connect using physical cabling. This makes it difficult for outsiders to access network data or hijack bandwidth for unsanctioned devices.
WiFi?
WiFi is a wireless technology that connects devices to the internet without any physical wired connection. Introduced in 1999, it is the most popular type of connection used today.
Wi-Fi is a family of wireless networking technologies, based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards, which are commonly used for local area networking of devices and Internet access. A common misconception is that the term Wi-Fi is short for “wireless fidelity,” however this is not the case. Wi-Fi is simply a trademarked phrase that means IEEE 802.11x.
Wi-Fi is the technology that allows a PC, laptop, mobile phone, or tablet device to connect at high speed to the internet without the need of physical wired connection. Wi-Fi uses radio signals to transmit information between your Wi-Fi enabled devices, like your mobile phone, and the internet, allowing the device to receive information from the web in the same way that a radio or mobile phone receives sound.
The Main Differences
Both WiFi and Ethernet have their pros and cons. These depend on several factors like interference, medium standard, protocol standard, latency, etc. WiFi is more popular these days, but Ethernet connections still offer some significant benefits. As such, you should choose your connection based on your needs.
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