There’s no denying that Wi-Fi is ultra-convenient. If you’re connected to the Wi-Fi, most of your daily tasks are streamlined, and life moves on at a tolerable pace. You may think it’s wise to invest in a portable wireless internet device because it makes sense, right? Give us a few minutes to tell you otherwise and perhaps change your mind.
We think wireless internet is great, but more as a secondary source of internet rather than the primary one. Your primary internet connection for a fixed location must be wired because it scores high in terms of reliability. Certain online activities, such as high-quality streaming, multiplayer gaming, and full-time work from home are simply more compatible with a wired connection.
While Wi-Fi appears to be progressively hassle-free due to the lack of wiring equipment and installation formalities, it does fall short in other aspects. A wireless internet device can keep you connected on the go, but getting stuck in no-signal zones is a recurring problem.
When choosing an internet connection for your permanent residence, here’s why a wired connection is a superior choice:
What Makes a Wired Internet Connection Better
- More Speed
- Low Latency
- Greater Stability
- Data Security
- Cost-Effective
1. More Speed
Many internet service providers (ISPs) are providing excellent wireless internet services, and the promised speeds are pretty good in theory. However, practically speaking, the overall speed rarely lives up to expectations; this can be proved by comparing speed tests for wired and wireless internet connections that have similar specifications on paper.
When you engage in an online activity that demands high download and upload speeds, it’s the wired connection that will shine through. The slower speed of Wi-Fi is barely noticeable while you’re casually browsing the internet or checking your social media feeds; it becomes apparent during more substantial tasks, such as streaming videos in high resolution.
If a high-speed wired internet connection has piqued your interest, we suggest checking out internet plans by Xfinity. The best part is that most of the ISP’s internet packages include free Wi-Fi equipment, so call Xfinity Customer Service to place your order today.
2. Low Latency
What is latency you ask? In the realm of the internet, latency (also known as ping rate) can be defined as the time consumed by a data packet to transfer from host to destination. In other words, it’s the time required for information to travel from an internet browser or app to a network server and back again.
For example, when you’re playing an online game, the click of a mouse or pushing a button on your controller triggers an in-game action. If the latency is high, the resulting action will be delayed, protracted, and somewhat patchy.
Fiber optic and cable internet connections have the lowest latency, typically between 10-30ms. For online gaming, a latency between 20-40ms is optimum, but anything below 100ms is also acceptable. The ping rate or latency of wireless internet connections usually exceeds 100ms. Satellite internet has the highest ping rate, as much as 600ms.
3. Greater Stability
Fluctuation of signals and fragmented connectivity is commonplace with Wi-Fi or wireless internet. Wi-Fi is prone to interruption or blockage from thick walls, electric appliances, confined spaces, bad weather, etc. You may have to reposition the router repeatedly or install Wi-Fi extenders to obtain better internet access.
On the contrary, wired internet connections exhibit a lot more stability. Fiber optic and cable internet are generally unaffected by the external factors mentioned above. When you switch to ethernet from Wi-Fi, you’ll immediately experience better connectivity.
4. Data Security
Your personal Wi-Fi connection is encrypted and undoubtedly secured with a password, but it’s nowhere as safe as a wired internet connection. This is because your Wi-Fi network is still visible to outsiders, and that exposes you to threats from your immediate surroundings.
Intruders in your area may guess a weak password and hackers can easily break into a Wi-Fi network with mediocre security features. In comparison, a wired internet connection offers enhanced data privacy, and most ISPs provide advanced security features to effectively prevent unauthorized access.
5. Cost-Effective
Setting up a wired internet connection may seem like too much work to begin with, but the long-term benefits outweigh minor hitches. A wired internet connection for your home or office will cost less than a wireless alternative, whilst delivering better speed, generous data caps, and low latency.
Wired internet saves you ample time and money by providing uninterrupted connectivity. If you solely depend on a wireless connection, you may encounter prolonged outages and connectivity issues due to external factors like stormy weather, backend maintenance, and so on.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you’re familiar with the many advantages of a wired internet connection, we hope for a verdict in its favor. If you’re convinced to invest in a cable or fiber optic internet connection, you can start browsing different ISPs operating in your area. Many ISPs offer discounted prices to new users, and you may consider bundling with TV and phone services as well.