3.5 - Wired and wireless networks
Networks can carry data through cables or wireless signals. Compare copper, fibre and wireless connections by considering the task, location, reliability, movement and cost.
Wired and wireless connections
A wired connection sends data through a physical cable, while a wireless connection sends data using electromagnetic signals through the surrounding space.
In a copper cable, data is carried as electrical signals. Copper is often economical for connections over short distances inside a building. It is convenient for a fixed desktop computer near a network socket. Electrical interference can affect the signal, and distance limits matter when choosing a cable connection.
In fibre-optic cable, data is carried using light. Fibre is suitable for high-capacity connections over longer distances and is not affected by electrical interference in the same way as copper. For example, connecting buildings on a large site may justify fibre. Fibre installation and its equipment can cost more, and a damaged cable needs suitable repair skills. “Fibre is always best” ignores cost and the actual distance and capacity needed.
Wireless connections avoid a cable running to every mobile device. A user can move within signal range and remain connected. However, signal strength depends on distance and obstacles; thick walls, other transmissions and many competing users can reduce performance. Wired and wireless connections can coexist: a wireless access device can connect into a network that uses cable for fixed equipment.
| Requirement | A reasonable choice and reason |
|---|---|
| A fixed office desktop close to the network socket | Copper: an economical short-distance wired connection. |
| A high-capacity connection between distant buildings | Fibre: carries data over longer distances and resists electrical interference. |
| A handheld stock scanner used while walking around | Wireless: the user needs movement without a trailing cable. |
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