In the age of ubiquitous wireless technology, it might seem that wired networks are quickly becoming obsolete. However, as fast as WiFi 7 and 5G are, cutting the cord will never match the reliability, speed, security, and scalability of a good lead.
It’s easy to get sucked into the convenience and versatility of strong radio frequencies, but if you can brave the initial pain of planning and installing a physical connection, you absolutely should. To this day, cables are indispensable in many scenarios, offering comfort and assurance wireless can only dream of.
Reliability
Reliability is one of the most significant advantages of wired networks. Whereas wireless connections are susceptible to interference from physical obstructions like walls, conflicting signals from electronic devices or machinery, and even weather conditions, cables provide consistent and stable connections from one system to the next.
This stability is crucial in environments where downtime can have severe consequences, such as in financial institutions, manufacturing facilities, and hospitals. One interruption could cost thousands, jeopardise safety, and even mean life or death.
For me, personally, hardwiring via Ethernet means I can continue to fill Club386 with my words or play games seamlessly without having to worry about congestion. Routers have a limit on the number of devices they can handle at any given time – there are so many ports – but with the addition of switches the possibilities are endless, and all without wavering speeds.
Superior speed
Although wireless technology has made significant strides, wired setups still hold the edge in raw data transfer rates. Consumer Ethernet connections, particularly those utilising modern standards like Cat7 or Cat8 cables, can deliver speeds of up to 40Gb/s at 98ft. Granted, WiFi 7 has a theoretical ceiling of 46.1Gb/s, but you’ll be lucky to ever see it reach that high and witness bandwidth plummet as you add more devices – an issue that doesn’t affect its wired counterparts.
Tried-and-trusted Gigabit Ethernet continues to offer assured stability for most consumers, yet it is in the high-speed stakes that wired networking has shifted gear. 2.5GbE, 5GbE and even 10GbE are becoming increasingly common on enthusiast gear, and if the budget permits, there’s scope to go even further.
For businesses that measure bandwidth by the truckload, QNAP has made significant strides in catering to heavy workloads with whopping 100GbE rackmounts, such as QSW-M7308R-4x, designed to link clustered servers without compromise. These use active optical cables (AOC) rather than standard Ethernet and are typically suited to datacentres and high-performance computing environments.
QNAP QSW-M7308R-4x 100GbE
A high-quality, attractively priced switch squarely aimed at the server crowd and throughput-intensive environments. Read our review.
Consider a gaming or multimedia studio where large files need to be transferred quickly. Rendering high-resolution video files or transferring game assets across systems can involve terabytes of data. A wired network not only pushes faster file transfers but also eliminates the latency often associated with wireless connections. This advantage is also critical in enterprise datacentres, where high-speed, low-latency connections are necessary to manage massive data flows efficiently.
Security advantages
Wireless setups are more vulnerable to external attacks, as their signals can be intercepted by unauthorised devices within range. Even with robust encryption protocols like WPA3, cutting the cord leaves you at risk of eavesdropping, signal jamming, and digital theft.
In contrast, a wired system is inherently more secure because it requires physical access to the cable or device to compromise the connection. This added layer of security makes hardwiring ideal for sensitive applications, such as government communications, military operations, and high-stakes corporate environments. For instance, a defence contractor managing classified information would prioritize a wired network setup to mitigate the risks of data interception.
Of course, no technology is infallible, particularly with the rapid rate at which cybercrime is increasing. UK boffins claim that half of all businesses report having experienced some form of digital attack during the 2023/24 fiscal year, making customer support just as important as the products you use. QNAP has established a dedicated Product Security Incident Response Team (PSIRT) to investigate and fight against bad actors, promising a rapid response within 24 hours.
Scalability and congestion
In environments with countless connected devices, wired outperforms wireless setups in managing congestion. While wireless access points can handle more than their fair share, performance tends to degrade as the number of connected devices increases. Signal interference and bandwidth sharing can further exacerbate this issue.
On the other hand, you can scale wired networks efficiently by adding more switches and cabling infrastructure. For example, a university campus with hundreds or thousands of connected devices benefits from a hybrid approach where critical systems, such as servers and high-performance workstations, are wired. This setup guarantees that high-bandwidth and latency-sensitive applications are not affected by the demands of wireless traffic.
Using a 10GbE, or better yet a 25GbE switch like QNAP QSW-M5216-1T means you can provide enterprise-level speeds across multiple workstations and NAS boxes, all without overcrowding the bandwidth.
QNAP QSW-M5216-1T
A simple-to use, unique switch bringing enterprise-class speed to a more attractive price point. Read our review.
Low latency
Modern real-time applications, such as video conferencing, online gaming, and industrial automation, all require inputs as close to instantaneous as possible. While wireless systems have made strides in reducing lag, they still cannot match the near-zero latency provided by wired networks.
Take the case of automated manufacturing. Robots and sensors in a smart factory rely on immediate communication to perform synchronised tasks. Any delay in data transmission can disrupt operations, leading to inefficiencies or even accidents. Similarly, professional esports competitions depend on wired connections to promise a level playing field and preserve the integrity of the competition.
Cost and longevity
Wireless setups might appear more cost-effective initially, but wired networks often prove more economical in the long run. Wireless requires regular updates to keep up with evolving standards, resulting in more downtime, and you know the saying: time is money.
Conversely, Ethernet cables and switches are evergreen, giving you a higher standard that doesn’t require intervention for years at a time. They typically have a longer lifespan and both supporting and troubleshooting is far less complicated, remaining respectful of your time.
Granted, a small business investing in a wired network might incur higher upfront costs for cabling and installation. However, it eventually pays for itself over time through reduced maintenance costs, longer equipment lifespan, and fewer connectivity issues. The durability of wired hardware makes them a better choice for permanent installations, such as in office buildings, schools, and datacentres.
Hybrid solutions
In many cases, wired and wireless networks coexist to provide a balanced solution that leverages the strengths of both technologies. For instance, a corporate office might use wired connections for desktop computers, servers, and VoIP systems while providing WiFi for mobile devices and visitors. This hybrid approach ensures high performance for critical systems while offering flexibility for less demanding applications.
QNAP QSW-IM3216-8S8T
Designed for harsh industrial environments, QSW-IM3216-8S8T high-speed switch features sixteen 10GbE ports, practical L2 management functions, and can be mounted in a rack, placed on a desktop, or wall mounted.
Moreover, wired backbones often support wireless arrangements by connecting access points to the main network. Without a robust wired infrastructure, even the most advanced wireless setups would struggle to deliver consistent performance. This symbiotic relationship underscores the enduring importance of hardwiring.
Wired in the home
While the strengths of wired networking naturally align with the scalability of business, its importance within the home should not be underestimated. Users familiar with WiFi dead spots will certainly appreciate the value of a constant connection free of interference. Think NAS box, Plex client, and gaming rig, and you already have a growing list of devices that stand to benefit from a wired connection.
At this end of the market, cost of installation has grown increasingly competitive. An eight-port 2.5GbE switch such as the QNAP QSW-1108-8T combines generous speed and connectivity for under £150. There is the additional outlay of running patch cables between rooms, but when you consider that a 100 metre drum of Cat6 can be had for less than £50, cost is no longer prohibitive.
When you consider that a WiFi 7 Mesh system can cost comfortable in excess of £1,000, it is fair to say that a tidy installation of wired networking is an attractive option and long-term investment for the home enthusiast.
Conclusion
While wireless systems have revolutionised connectivity with their convenience and mobility, wired networks continue to hold a vital place in modern infrastructure. Their unmatched performance makes them indispensable in critical applications across various industries.
As we move forward, the coexistence of wired and wireless arrangements will remain crucial, with each playing a complementary role in delivering efficient and reliable connectivity. Wired networks are not merely relics of the past; they are evolving to meet the demands of the future, fortifying systems in our increasingly connected world so they function smoothly and securely.
