Network connectivity can be categorised into wired (or fixed connectivity) and wireless. Each type has its pros and cons. Wired connectivity relies on cables to establish a connection, which means its range is more limited. In contrast, wireless connectivity offers greater freedom of movement but may be susceptible to interference. To learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of each type, check out the full article. On the flip side, wireless connectivity liberates you from the constraints of cable connections, empowering you to develop from any location.
Wireless or wired connectivity
Wired connectivity refers to connecting devices to the Internet and each other using physical cables. In general, a higher bandwidth typically results in faster speeds and increased security for your connectivity.
Fibre optics
Fibre optics is a fascinating technology that transmits data using thin plastic or glass wires. It achieves this by harnessing the power of light, which is sent through pulses and takes advantage of light’s refraction and reflection. The data is transmitted through optical cables, allowing for efficient and reliable communication that is sure to impress and intrigue. Due to the absence of distortion, light rays maintain their strength and can travel long distances, resulting in faster and more reliable information transmission. Fibre optics, a technology with a rich history dating back to the 1950s, owes its development to two notable figures: Narinder Singh Kapany, known as the father of fibre optics, and Charles Kuen Kao, recognised as the father of fibre optic communications. Their contributions are to be appreciated and respected.
ADSL
ADSL, or Asymmetric Digital Subscriber List, is a data-carrying telephone cable. It is based on the traditional telephone line, which consists of a copper pair that separates data transmission from voice communication. The technology is asymmetric, as the upload and download capacity do not align. This means that either we receive more data than we send, or vice versa, we send more data than we receive.
Ethernet
Ethernet, which emerged in the 1970s, refers to a wired connection that links devices within a local network or extends to a broader area. This type of cable offers several advantages. It provides enhanced security due to its use of wiring, making it more difficult to breach. Additionally, the connections are typically faster and of superior quality. Moreover, it is a cost-effective option. Furthermore, it facilitates easy connectivity between different machines within a sub-network. There are various types of Ethernet cables, each offering different transfer speeds and download frequencies. Longer cables tend to experience more power loss. Wireless connectivity offers several benefits, including cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and freedom of movement without being restricted by wires.
Wireless Local-WLAN
Wireless local area connections now have a longer range than their predecessors. One of the most well-known types of wireless connection is the Wi-Fi network. However, it’s important to mention that not all WLANs are Wi-Fi. This is because other radio transmissions are also used to connect the local network nodes, although Wi-Fi is the most commonly used type of WLAN. This type of network ranges from 100 meters and is commonly used in home and business environments. It operates using radio waves or infrared technology.
Wireless Metropolitan-WMAN
As the name implies, the range can extend up to 50 kilometres, enabling convenient connections between various locations within a metropolitan area. It is frequently utilised to establish connections between institutional buildings or to offer Internet access to entire villages. WiMax is the most common connection in this category.
Expansive- WWAN
Mobile phone towers and satellites are crucial in ensuring coverage across a wide geographical area, even in rural or remote regions where fixed networks may be less accessible. Unlike WLAN, WWAN is utilised in devices like smartphones, tablets, or laptops that require Internet access while on the go. However, because of its broader coverage and the infrastructure it utilises, it provides slower speeds.
