With modern technology getting smarter by the day, we constantly expect more from the gadgets and appliances we use. It feels like we can do literally anything thanks to the power of our smartphone, for example, regardless of where we happen to be at a particular point in time.
In fact this increasing reliance on WiFi is changing how we live and work. In our February monthly poll, we asked participants how they prefer to network their IT, whether at home or in a business environment. And, unsurprisingly, 75% of respondents said they’d opt to use wireless connectivity.
There’s nothing wrong with this of course. Purchase the right router and hardware and it’s possible to link up all the computers, telephones, printers and other devices in your house or office, with minimal fuss. For many, this is a convenient, modern solution that circumvents the need for those unsightly – and arguably unsafe – ‘trailing wires’.
But when it comes to performance, does wireless outperform a wired network? Some wireless devices have caught up to the 1GB speed offered by a standard network card, but generally these are more expensive. 300MB wireless options are more commonplace due to their affordability, which could compromise efficiencies, certainly in the workplace.
Even if the speed concern is overcome, there is still no comparison in terms of reliability. A fully-wired network means you’re far less likely to see the dreaded “lost connection” message, even when “connections are available”. In a commercial setting, this enables you to operate ‘business as usual’ which leads to more money in your back pocket. And if some consideration has gone into planning and installing the network, there needn’t be any ugly wires (aka trip hazards) on show.
Of course what’s right for one home or workspace will not suit every scenario. But with some expert networking advice, it’s possible to ensure maximum connectivity, with minimum fuss!
For help optimising the connectivity in your home or workplace, contact Ti Installations on 01484 818180 or email info@ti-installationsltd.co.uk and ask to speak to our networking team.
