Conclusion
You've studied the analysis and are ready to make your decision. Bottom line, then, which is better - wired or wireless? The table below summarizes the main criteria we've considered in this article. If you are very cost-conscious, need maximum performance of your home system, and don't care much about mobility, then a wired Ethernet LAN is probably right for you.If on the other hand, cost is less of an issue, you like being an early adopter of leading-edge technologies, and you are really concerned about the task of wiring your home or small business with Ethernet cable, then you should certainly consider a wireless LAN.
Many of you will naturally fall somewhere in between these two extremes. If you're still undecided, consider asking friends and family about their experiences with building LANs. And, spend just a few more minutes with our interactive Home Network Advisor tool. It should help you decide on the type of network as well as the gear you will want to have.
Give it a try: Home Network Advisor
Wired vs Wireless
| Wired | Wireless | |
| Installation | moderate difficulty | easier, but beware interference |
| Cost | less | more |
| Reliability | high | reasonably high |
| Performance | very good | good |
| Security | reasonably good | reasonably good |
| Mobility | limited | outstanding |
