1 In real-world networks, there are rarely enough resources to accomplish everyt
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1
In real-world networks, there are rarely enough resources to accomplish everything you could want for a given installation. Wireless networks are useful for their ability to serve hosts in arbitrary locations, move them around at will, and add more without having to take the time and expense of rewiring, but they do not always have the required speed, coverage, or ability to manage traffic in the same way as wired managed switches. Switches, on the other hand, cannot gracefully deal with device moves; cannot service mobile devices; require wires in or on walls, floors, or ceilings; and must be replaced if you need more devices than their port capacity.
Consider the following scenarios:
Explanation / Answer
Wired Networks
Pros Cons
Ethernet cables, hubs and switches are very inexpensive.
Some connection sharing software packages, like ICS, are free.
Ethernet cables, hubs and switches are extremely reliable.
Wired LANs offer superior performance.
Broadband routers offer equivalent firewall capability built into the device, configurable through its own software.
Wired connections can reach networking speeds of up to 1000 Mbps with Gigabit Ethernet networking equipment, necessary for bandwidth hungry.
Need to run cables in difficult environments through walls, floors and ceilings.
Cables need to be run from computer to computer and switch to switch. Process can be time consuming.
Loose cables likely remain the single most common and annoying source of failure in a wired network.
Wireless Networks
Pros Cons
The greater mobility of wireless LANs helps offset the performance disadvantage. Mobile computers do not need to be tied to an Ethernet cable and can roam freely within the WLAN range.
It is relatively easy to set up a WAP and configure a WNIC using a wireless connection utility.
Wireless networks have much less cabling which leads to a much neater working environment. You do not need to run cables across your house/office, which can create trip hazards across rooms, hallways and stairs. Also choosing to set-up a wireless network means that you do not need to run cables underneath carpets or drill holes through walls or ceilings to pass cables through.
Need to run cables in difficult environments through walls, floors and ceilings.
Cables need to be run from computer to computer and switch to switch. Process can be time consuming.
Loose cables likely remain the single most common and annoying source of failure in a wired network
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