To cut a long story short whether to opt for wired or wireless connectivity… depends. That was easy, thanks for reading!!
Whether to opt for wired or wireless connectivity depends on several factors: the business itself (environment, nature of work they do, do they have machines etc), number of clients which will be using the network, budgets, how long they will be using the building for… I could go on.
In my opinion if the building is a decent size, a hybrid of the two is best. Wired and wireless connectivity are both great in their own right! This means there would be resilient Wi-Fi for all staff and guest users and then there would be network points as a back up option, this could also be used for new users to get them up and running on the network, or might want to be used if you wanted the best possible speed – potentially you are doing a large upload. You might also need as few network points for video conferencing systems – for teams, to book meeting rooms, for machines etc.
The Importance of Wired Connectivity.
Structured cabling using industry standard cabling if installed and tested correctly it is exceedingly reliable.
Users have a direct connection to the network as they plug a patch lead into their computer, which is plugged into a network outlet. This is created as the cable is terminated onto a module which is presented neatly on the wall. The cable runs back to the comms room into the network cabinet where it is terminated onto a patch panel. The outlet number on the corresponding patch panel is ‘patched in’ using a patch lead into the switch which is connected to the router (this connects the network to the outside world as the incoming broadband line is connected to this). Therefore, the end user has a direct connection to the network. This installation is tested with industry standard testers (Fluke) therefore it is very highly reliable – especially if the installed cable is well contained.
Main Benefits:
- Reliable: Consistent, stable with minimal interferences.
- Speed: Direct connection – quickest option available – quicker than wireless solutions.
- Security: Less vulnerable to cyber threats and unauthorised access than wireless.
- Low latency: Ideal for video conferencing, gaming etc
Drawbacks:
- Infrastructure: The cabling infrastructure can be costly and time consuming.
- Limited Mobility: Devices must have a physical connection, therefore, there is not much scope to change desk layouts and for users to move around.
The Importance of Wireless Connectivity.
Wi-Fi has quickly become the go-to modern solution for connectivity. It is so easy to use and users can roam around anywhere in the building and be connected to the network. For businesses how it works is fairly complex but for the end user it is super easy!
A brief description of how it works:
For businesses Access Points will be used (these are the small white ‘boxes’ which are mounted on the ceiling – they come in all different shapes and sizes). The number of access points used is determined by several factors, the main being the environment, number of clients and what the desired parameters of the Wi-Fi are. There is such a large list that determines this which will be discussed in a future article. The number and positioning of the access points is determined after performing a Wi-Fi survey and creating a wireless design. The access points are then configured and installed. A patch lead runs from the access point to a network outlet (usually in the ceiling) which is installed by the previously discussed process.
Main Benefits:
- Mobility: Users can move their working space, they can walk around the building and always be connected.
- Scaleability: If the office grows or more users join the office, it is easy to add to the wireless network.
- Tidy workspace: There is no loose cables lying around, makes offices looks neat and modern.
- Cost effective: Save money on paying for cabling infrastructure. However, as there is no network points, the Wi-Fi needs to be more resilient which could mean more hardware which could drive up costs. But on the whole, costs will be saved than fully cabling a whole office. (This is why a hybrid approach is likely the best solution).
Drawbacks:
- Interference Issues: Signals can be affected by several factors, for example: other wireless devices, walls, electronic devices etc. However, an accurate and well thought through Wireless Design can mitigate these factors.
- Security Concerns: In comparison to wired networks there are larger security concerns, however, again this can be mitigated.
- Consistency: Wireless can not perform as consistently as wired networks.
Which One Is Right?
Both wired and wireless connectivity! There is no wrong answer and completely depends on several factors but most likely for a business office a hybrid solution will be best. This will reduce costs of having full cabling infrastructure however, there will be some network points for resilience, whilst having a well though wireless network to allow workers to be flexible and always connected. Both solutions will coexist and should be seen as teammates rather than opposition as this can help you build a network that is perfect for you as well as being high performing!
What are your thoughts? Let me know in the comments below!
