1.3.2

• Wired networking:

  Ethernet refers to a collection of protocols widely used in LANs. It describes to devices how they should format data for transmission. It normally uses twisted copper cables - CAT 5 or CAT 6 but can also use fibre optic cables.
• Wireless networking:

  How wireless networks function resolves around how WAPs work - radio waves converted to electrical signals and vice versa
• Wireless networking: Bluetooth:

  • Usually a direct connection between two devices so that data can be shared
  • Connection range varies, typically only 10m
  • Low bandwidth compared to Wi-Fi
  • Often used in mobile/ wearable devices - smartphones, headphones, etc.
• Wireless networking: Wi-Fi:

  • Can be used by multiple devices to connect to a LAN at the same time
  • Connections have a range between 40 and 100m
  • High bandwidth compared to Bluetooth
  • Often used in the home - routers, desktops, smartphones, etc.
  • Need a WAP and devices need a wireless NIC to connect, which is often built in, but you can use a USB or HDMI dongle
• Wireless connection:

  Benefits:

  • More convenient - you can move around while still being connected
  • Cheaper as you need fewer wires

  Drawbacks:

  • Criminal activity - unauthorised user can hack into a network and cause damage
  • Bandwidth stealing - "Outside" users can slow the network though excessive usage, e.g. downloading software or streaming
  • Confidentiality - Some wireless networks are quite open and use un-encrypted transmissions giving intruders full visibility to data being sent
• Wired connection:

  Benefits:

  • Faster transmission speed
  • Reliable for further
  • More secure as physical connection is required to intercept data

  Drawbacks:

  • Installation can be expensive
  • Installation requires technical knowledge
  • Installation requires space to install cables