The way your business accesses data is changing. Just a few years ago, you couldn’t imagine that you would have a comprehensive strategy to keep data secure when sending and receiving it wirelessly, but today wireless transmission methods have become more secure, reliable, and fast. Today, we’ll take a look at the difference between wired and wireless connections in the modern business.
The Wireless Connection
The Pros
There is one obvious benefit: No wires! Not having to run cable is a massive benefit, but the biggest benefit of this might just be the ability to connect devices to a wireless network inside your business. By giving your team access to network resources wirelessly, you’ll see better collaboration and improved productivity.
Additionally, with a strong wireless network, you can promote some strategies that can work to improve your operational effectiveness. One of those strategies is a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) strategy. Many of your employees bring their smartphones with them when they come to work. By enacting a BYOD strategy, your staff can take advantage of the devices they are most used to in order to advance the goals of the company.
The Cons
Many wireless technologies aren’t actually wireless, and of the ones that are, many need to be charged regularly. Therefore, while expanding your wireless network will provide the ability to compute inside the network’s perimeter, setting up a more collaborative workspace still comes with some drawbacks, namely speed and security.
Wireless connections are more vulnerable than wired ones. It’s easier for unauthorized individuals to hijack the signal of a wireless connection and access the critical information that is transmitted wirelessly.
The Wired Connection
The Pros
When dealing with wired networks, IT admins have more control over what devices can connect to the network. This offers several advantages. First, there is more control over the security protocols on those devices, which makes contracting malware and other negative outcomes less likely.
Wired connections also enhance an organization’s ability to keep their devices free from security threats. Controls have improved to the point where it is more difficult for attackers to break into a wired network.
Additionally, it may go without saying, but wired networks overall are faster than wireless networks. This speed boost is magnified if there are walls, floors, ceilings, or any other potential interference to seeing optimal speeds over Wi-Fi.
The Cons
The biggest setback to a wired Internet network is the act of wiring the network. Initial setup is a pain, as you need to hide cables and find ways to run cable as to not hinder the thoroughfares around your business. It is also a hindrance for maintenance if a cable fails or hardware has to be moved around due to business growth or restructuring.
Another detriment to the business is that a wired connection doesn’t allow for the type of mobility many businesses are looking for nowadays. With a wireless connection meetings are faster, more to the point, and collaborative work can be fluid.
You have a business decision to make; and, while it may not be the most crucial one you will make, it can have an effect on how your business functions. For help networking your business, call the professionals at ExcalTech today at (877) 638-5464.
