In our wireless world, where wifi reigns supreme, it’s easy to overlook the advantages of a wired internet connection. While wifi is convenient and sufficient for most online activities, ethernet still offers several benefits that shouldn’t be ignored. Firstly, ethernet is consistently faster than wifi, with studies showing that the latter is only able to achieve 42% of the speeds of a hardwired connection. Although the upcoming WiFi 7 standard promises faster speeds, interference and network congestion will likely hinder its performance. Meanwhile, ethernet maintains its speed and doesn’t degrade with distance.
Furthermore, ethernet provides more reliable coverage compared to wifi. Wifi signals can be obstructed by various materials, resulting in frustrating dead zones within your home. Extenders, MESH networks, or secondary routers can partially alleviate this issue, but wiring your house with ethernet eliminates dead zones entirely. Additionally, ethernet offers better security than wifi. Since wifi signals are transmitted through the air, they are more susceptible to hacking and unauthorized access. On the other hand, ethernet connections require physical access, making them more difficult for malicious actors to compromise.
While wifi continues to dominate the internet landscape, ethernet’s advantages still make it a worthy consideration. Its consistently faster speeds, reliable coverage, and enhanced security all contribute to a superior internet experience. Although the day may come when wifi advancements surpass ethernet entirely, that day is not today. So if you have the opportunity to wire your house with ethernet, it’s a decision worth considering for a more optimal internet connection.