WIRED NETWORKS: CHARACTERISTICS, TYPES, ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES - TECHNOLOGY - 2025

The wired networks are described as an arrangement involving a wiring for establishing links to the Internet, computers and other devices in the network. Data is transferred from one device to another using Ethernet cables.

The term "wired" is used to distinguish between wired and wireless connections. Unlike wireless devices that communicate over the air, a wired network uses physical cables to transport data between different devices and computer systems.

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Since dialing in, the way employees access data and applications has changed dramatically with the emergence of new technologies and faster Internet connections. In fact, the latest trends aim to cut cables entirely in favor of greater mobility and flexibility.

Although wireless mobility is a great advantage of access to information, many entities give greater preference to the security of wired networks.

characteristics

Today's wired networks generally involve having Ethernet connections, which use a standardized network protocol and cables similar to landline cables.

An Ethernet system uses a copper twisted pair cable or a transport system based on coaxial cable. Recent wired Ethernet networks achieve speeds of up to five gigabits per second.

The Ethernet cable used is unshielded twisted pair. Used to connect different devices. However, it is bulky and expensive, making it less practical to use at home.

On the other hand, a phone line uses the telephone wiring found in most homes, and can provide fast services like DSL.

Finally, broadband systems provide cable Internet. They use the type of coaxial cable that cable television also uses.

Connect to a wired network

To make up most wired network connections, all you need to do is plug in a network cable.

If you plan to connect only two computers, all that will be needed is a network interface card (NIC) on each computer and a cable to run between them.

If you want to connect multiple computers or other devices, you will need additional equipment: a router or switch, depending on your network configuration. A cable will also be needed to connect each computer or device to the router.

Once you have all the equipment, all you need to do is install it and configure the computers so they can communicate with each other.

Types

Twisted pair cable

It is made up of two different conducting cables that are curled together. Several of these pairs come bundled in a protective sleeve. It is the type of cable that is most used for transmission. The twisted pair is of two kinds:

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)

This class of cable has the ability to block interference without having to rely on physical shielding to achieve this. It is used for telephone applications.

Shielded Twisted Pair (STP)

This variety of cable has a special jacket to avoid interference. It is used for high speed transmissions and also in the data / voice lines of the telephone lines.

Coaxial cable

It has a plastic coating inside which are two parallel conductors, each with its own particular protective cover. It transfers data in two ways: baseband mode and broadband mode.

Cable television and analog television networks make extensive use of coaxial cables.

Fiber optic cable

It uses the concept of light reflection through a glass or plastic core. The core is surrounded by a less dense glass or plastic covering called a cladding. It is used for the transmission of large volumes of data.

Advantages and disadvantages

- Advantage

Greater security

Cables allow for increased security, reliability and control. Unauthorized users cannot access the network, increasing security.

Using physical connections may not seem so advanced, but it is the best option when the data is valuable and confidential.

Faster

Wired connections will always be faster and more consistent than wireless connections.

Wired networks reach fairly high top speeds and it is easier for them to maintain those top speeds.

Less interference

Wired networks are less vulnerable to radio interference, thus resulting in fewer lost packets that would have to be retransmitted.

Because of this, a wired connection is preferred when using commercial applications where reliability is vital.

Lower cost

The structure for a wired network can be quite inexpensive to install. Cables, switches, routers, and other devices can be considered cost-effective.

Additionally, the lifespan of hardware generally stands the test of time before needing an upgrade.

Higher productivity

Maintaining a wired network ensures that the network will not get bogged down with non-essential data traffic.

In addition, there is no risk that workers with their mobiles start browsing social networks while they are working hours.

- Disadvantages

Using cables

The real drawback with wired networks is the physical cables. It is preferable to choose a wireless network if it causes discomfort to the sight of a cable.

On the other hand, running cables through walls is not a quick task and cables must be managed properly to avoid degradation.

Lack of mobility

A wired network is a physical connection that works like a tether. This means that the reach of the cable is what determines how far the devices connected to the network can travel.

Using a device in a different location requires additional cables and switches to connect the device to the network.

Installation

Wired networks may take longer to set up as they require more components to complete the installation.

Maintenance

If you have a small network structure, there is no need for a server. However, as more devices are added to the network, a server is required to handle connectivity and workload.

When a wired network demands a server, it is feasible that its maintenance has a higher cost.

References

1. Altitude Integrations (2018). Wired vs Wireless In Business: Why You Should Still Wire Up Your Office For Data. Taken from: altitudeintegrations.com.
2. Our IT Department (2019). Wired vs. Wireless Networking. What's The Best Option For My Business? Taken from: ouritdept.co.uk.
3. Gnome Help (2019). Connect to a wired (Ethernet) network. Taken from: help.gnome.org.
4. Tracy V. Wilson (2019). How Home Networking Works. How Stuff Works Taken from: computer.howstuffworks.com.
5. Geeks for geeks (2019). Types of Transmission Media. Taken from: geeksforgeeks.org.