Choosing between Wi-Fi or cable is a complicated decision. Each type of Internet connection It has its advantages and disadvantages and in the end this implies that if we do not make the right decision we will find ourselves with a user experience that will not meet our needs, or that may even be very poor.
I know that our advanced readers are clear on this topic, and that they know when it is better to use Wi-Fi or cable, but other readers with less knowledge still have doubts on this topic, and that is why we have decided to give shape to this simple guide, where We are going to help you solve all those doubts once and for all.
This article is going to be very clear and easy to understand, but if after finishing reading it you have any questions you can leave them in the comments and we will be happy to help you solve it. Without further ado, make yourself comfortable and let’s get started.
Internet by Wi-Fi or cable: what they are and how they work
An Internet connection via Wi-Fi is one that is established wirelessly between the router and another device. With this type of connection, donut-shaped radio waves are used that travel in two directions, establishing the classic receiving and sending modality that Allows you to establish two-way communication. We can have several devices connected simultaneously on the same Wi-Fi network.
Thus, the router receives the signals from the device, which we know as “upstream”, and the device the signals from the router, which we know as “download”. In this journey, the waves can meet different obstaclescan be affected by sources of interference from other waves operating on the same frequency, and will also fade with distance.
When we use a cable Internet connection, this bidirectional communication between the device and the router also occurs, but with a particularity, and that is that in this case it is done through a cable that joins both. Said cable can limit the speed of the connection, so it must be able to work at least at the maximum level that our connection is capable of reaching.
Unlike what happens with a wireless connection, we can only connect one device for each cable, and this is not affected in the same way neither by distance nor by interference, which is a very important advantage.
Advantages and disadvantages of a Wi-Fi Internet connection
Advantages
- We can connect multiple devices in a simple and fast way.
- We will not have to manage wiring.
- We will have Internet connection from different places at home.
- We will be able to move with our devices and remain connected to the Internet.
- Good performance with Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 standards.
Disadvantages
- Speed is noticeably reduced over distance.
- Greater sensitivity to interference and obstacles.
- Latency can be very high, and performance highly variable.
- More prone to suffer micro-falls that can leave us without connection for a few moments.
These types of connections are ideal choice for connecting mobile devices and laptops, and also to use those systems that we use for streaming and that do not require a very high speed, nor total stability. It can also be the best solution for creating multi-device environments without having to make a significant investment in connections and cabling.
Advantages and disadvantages of a cable Internet connection
Advantages
- High performance.
- Less sensitive to interference and distance.
- They offer superior stability.
- Its latency is much lower.
- They do not usually suffer microcuts or microfalls.
Disadvantages
- It is not viable for multi-device environments, since it limits us to one cable per device.
- Limited range, it is difficult to bring a wired connection to another room without resorting to a PLC.
These types of connections are the best option for devices and systems that need high speed, very low latency and total stabilitysuch as a gaming PC, game console, or cloud gaming device. The difference that this type of connection can make in terms of latency and stability compared to Wi-Fi is enormous, so keep that in mind.
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