Wired & Wireless Networks

To connect devices to a network, there are two main options:
- Wired
- Wireless
There are advantages and disadvantages to each option which are explored below

A wired network is a network where physical cables are used to join devices together and transmit data
Computers can be connected to networks using many different types of wires to transmit data
The most common types of cables in a wired network are:
- Ethernet
- Fibre optic
- Copper

ethernet-cables

Ethernet is a wired networking standard to carry electrical signals between devices on a local area network (LAN)
Ethernet is common in most offices and homes to connect devices such a desktop computers & servers
Ethernet uses twisted pair cables to allow duplex communication

fibre-optic-cable

Fibre optic is a type of cable that uses light to transmit data on a wide area network (WAN)
Fibre transmits data at a much higher speed and has a much higher bandwidth compared to copper cables
Fibre optic cable does not suffer from interference which makes them the most secure option to send sensitive data
Fibre optic cables can cover a long distance without any degradation, they can span cities and countries

Copper is a type of cable originally used in telecommunication to transmit voice signals, forming the traditional landline phone network
The ability to use copper to deliver network traffic on a wide area network (WAN) made the internet possible
Copper cables degrade over time which limits their range compared to fibre optic
Copper cable suffers from interference which can disrupt data quality
Copper transmits data at a much slower rate, and has a much lower bandwidth compared to fibre optic

Advantages	Disadvantages
Speed - Fast data transfer	Portability - Can't move easily, location is limited by physical cable
Security - Better physical security	Cost - Need more cables to add a new device
Range - High (up to 100m), less susceptible to interference	Safety - Cables can be trip hazards, need routing along walls, under floors

A wireless network is a network where connections are made using radio waves to transmit data through the air
The most common types of wireless connections are:
- Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth

wifi

Wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) is a common standard for wireless networks
Wi-Fi is common in most homes and offices to connect devices such as laptops, tablets & smart phones
Using Wi-Fi, devices communicate with a wireless access point (WAP), which can be a standalone device or built into a router or switch

bluetooth

Bluetooth is another common standard for wireless networks
Bluetooth is common in most homes and offices to connect devices such as headphones, controllers, keyboards & mice
Bluetooth is used typically for a direct connection between two devices

Advantages	Disadvantages
Portability - Easy to move around, location is only limited by range	Speed - Slower data transfer than wired
Cost - Less expensive to setup and add new devices	Security - Less secure than wired
Compatibility - Most devices are manufactured with a built in wireless adapter	Range - Relies on signal strength to the WAP, signals can be obstructed (up to 90m)

Give three advantages of using a wireless network instead of a wired network [3]

Answer

flexibility to expand network/add users/add own devices to the network
there is no need to drill holes/install cabling
mobility of user/devices (portable)
modern devices are more likely to (be designed to) connect wirelessly (built in adapters)
guest access (can add temporary connection)
no trip hazards

Guidance

Wired & Wireless Networks (AQA GCSE Computer Science)