Future-Proofing Your Wireless Network

No, a WiFi access point and a router are not the same. WiFi Access Point acts as a bridge between wired and wireless networks, transmitting and receiving WiFi signals. It provides wireless connectivity within a certain range of areas. 

On the other hand, a router is a device that facilitates the movement of data packets between networks. It acts as a traffic manager, directing data to the appropriate devices within the network and routing data between the local network and the internet.

It is common for WiFi access points and routers to be combined into a single device, especially for home networks, but they serve different functions.

A wired network is a computer network where devices are connected using physical cables. In a wired network, data is transmitted using electrical signals through the wires, allowing devices to communicate and share information. Ethernet cables, such as Cat5e or Cat6 cables, are commonly used in wired networks.

While wireless networks have become more prevalent in recent years, wired networks are still the preferred choice for many organizations, such as businesses, schools, and government agencies, requiring high security, reliability, and speed.
So wired networks are not obsolete. They are still widely used in many settings and offer advantages over wireless networks.

Setting up a wired network can be more complicated than a wireless one since a huge network of wires is involved, but it is generally not difficult if you have some basic technical skills and knowledge.

• Choose your Network Hardware: If you plan to connect multiple devices, you will need a router, Ethernet cables, and a network switch or hub. Ensure the hardware you choose is compatible and supports your desired speeds.
• Plan your Network Layout: Decide where you will place your router and where you will run your Ethernet cables. You may need to drill holes, run lines through walls or ceilings, or use cable management tools to keep cables neat.
• Connect your Devices: Connect your router to your modem and connect your devices to the router using Ethernet cables. Make sure to follow the instructions that come with your hardware and configure the settings as needed.
• Test your Network: Once you have everything set up, test your network to ensure it works properly. Check your network’s connectivity, speed, and security and troubleshoot any issues that arise.

• Limited Mobility: Wired networks require physical connections between devices, which limits mobility and flexibility. Devices must be physically connected to the network with Ethernet cables, which can be inconvenient and restrict movement.
• Limited Scalability: Wired networks may not be as easily scalable as wireless networks. Adding new devices to the network may require additional cables and infrastructure, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Additionally, if you need to relocate a device or change the network layout, you may need to reconfigure the cabling, which can be disruptive.
• Installation and Maintenance: Setting up a wired network can be more complicated and time-consuming than a wireless one. It can also require more hardware and cables, making installation and maintenance more difficult.

• Network Hardware: Network hardware includes the router, Ethernet cables, and any network switches or hubs needed to connect multiple devices. This hardware can cost around a few hundred to several thousand dollars, but the cost purely depends on the quality and quantity of the equipment.
• Installation Labor: You can expect to pay for their labor if you hire a professional to install the network. Installation costs purely depend on the installation’s complexity and the time required.
• Additional Costs: Depending on your specific needs, you need to purchase additional hardware or software to support your network, such as network security software, backup systems, or network management tools, which can cost you more than usual. This might be a challenge during the installation of network solutions.