20 Benefits of a Wired Network: Why It Still Matters in a Wireless World

In an age dominated by wireless technology, the humble wired network still holds significant advantages that are too often overlooked.

Whether you’re running a business, managing a home office, or setting up a reliable gaming setup, understanding the benefits of a wired network can help you make more informed decisions about your connectivity.

Key advantages of a wired network

1. Security of wired networks

Wired networks are inherently more secure than wireless connections. Since data travels through physical cables, it’s much harder for outsiders to intercept information without direct access to the network.

This makes wired connections a top choice for businesses handling sensitive data and for anyone concerned about the risk of unauthorised access.

2. Speed

When it comes to pure speed, wired networks still outperform wireless alternatives. Ethernet connections offer faster data speeds and more stable performance, particularly when transferring large files or streaming high-definition content.

Unlike Wi-Fi, which can fluctuate depending on signal strength and interference, a wired connection provides consistent and high-speed access.

3. Reliability of a wired network

A major benefit of a wired network is its reliability. With no dependency on signal strength or the number of devices connected, wired connections are far less likely to drop or degrade. This is especially important in professional environments or during high-bandwidth activities like video conferencing and gaming.

4. Low latency

Latency refers to the time it takes for data to travel from source to destination. As one of the notable benefits of a wired network, it generally has much lower latency than wireless setups. This makes a big difference in scenarios like online gaming or VoIP calls, where milliseconds can matter.

5. Minimal interference

Wireless networks are prone to interference from walls, other electronic devices, and even neighbouring Wi-Fi networks. Wired connections are immune to such interference, providing a cleaner and more stable signal.

6. Cost-effective in the long run

While installing a wired network requires more planning and investment, it is more cost-effective.

There’s less need for constant upgrades, repeaters, or signal boosters, and fewer issues to troubleshoot. Maintenance costs are generally lower, and equipment typically has a longer lifespan.

7. Future-proofing your network

With the increasing demand for faster internet and higher data usage, a well-installed wired network can accommodate growing needs without requiring complete overhauls.

Modern Ethernet cables can handle gigabit and even 10-gigabit speeds, making them a solid choice for future-proofing your setup. This means fewer infrastructure changes in the long run, saving time and money.

8. Installation considerations

Setting up a wired network does require more physical effort and planning. Cables must be routed, and access points configured. However, once in place, the network usually requires minimal maintenance.

Wired network examples include:

• Ethernet cabling in office buildings
• Wired LANs in schools and universities
• Home networks using Cat6 cables for high-speed connectivity
• Direct connections between routers and smart TVs, gaming consoles, or NAS devices

9. Risk of unauthorised access

Although wired networks are generally more secure, it’s important to acknowledge that no system is entirely immune. If someone gains physical access to your network cabling or ports, there is still a risk of unauthorised access. That said, this risk is significantly lower than the vulnerabilities present in wireless networks, which can be breached remotely.

10. Security of connection

Wired connections offer a consistently secure line of communication. Unlike wireless signals that can be intercepted in transit, the benefits of a wired network help you transmit data through a closed, physical medium. This greatly reduces the likelihood of signal hijacking or eavesdropping, further reinforcing your network’s integrity.

11. Faster data speeds

It’s worth re-emphasising that modern Ethernet technologies such as Cat6 or Cat7 cabling enable lightning-fast data speeds, supporting up to 10 Gbps and beyond. For tasks like 4K video editing, large file backups, or high-end gaming, these faster data speeds make a noticeable difference in day-to-day performance.

12. Greater bandwidth capacity

Wired networks can handle much higher bandwidth than typical wireless connections. This is particularly useful in environments where multiple users need to transfer large files or access bandwidth-heavy applications simultaneously without slowing down the network.

13. Less network congestion

Unlike Wi-Fi, which shares bandwidth among devices connected to the same access point, each device on a wired network can have a dedicated connection. This significantly reduces network congestion and helps maintain performance during peak usage times.

14. Energy efficiency

Devices connected via Ethernet typically consume less power compared to those maintaining a constant wireless signal. Wired connections don’t require the power-hungry processes needed to connect to and stay connected with wireless access points, contributing to longer device battery life in some cases.

15. Better for fixed installations

For devices that don’t move – like desktop PCs, servers, smart TVs, or printers – a wired network is often more practical. It eliminates the need to worry about wireless signal range and ensures a stable connection for always-on devices.

16. Simplified troubleshooting

Diagnosing issues in a wired network is often simpler. With each device connected via a physical cable, it’s easier to identify and isolate faults compared to the benefits of wireless networks, where signal strength, interference, or firmware inconsistencies might complicate the process.

17. Greater compatibility with legacy hardware

Many legacy or industrial devices still rely on Ethernet connections for communication. A wired network provides seamless integration with these systems, ensuring continued functionality without costly upgrades or adapters.

18. Optimised for streaming and real-time applications

For streaming high-quality audio and video, conducting webinars, or handling real-time services like remote desktop access or surveillance feeds, a wired network provides the uninterrupted performance needed to avoid buffering or signal drops.

19. Predictable performance during peak hours

Wired networks maintain consistent performance even when internet traffic is at its highest. Unlike wireless networks that can slow down due to overcrowded airwaves during peak usage times, wired connections provide predictable bandwidth allocation, crucial for businesses operating on strict deadlines or service-level agreements.

20. Reduced cyber hygiene dependency

Wireless networks demand constant vigilance with password updates, firmware patches, and signal encryption settings to remain secure. Wired networks, due to their physical nature, reduce reliance on stringent cyber hygiene practices, offering peace of mind for users who may not be highly tech-savvy or have the resources to manage network security continuously.

Advantages of a wired LAN

A Local Area Network (LAN) using wired connections is particularly effective in environments where performance, security, and reliability are crucial. Wired LANs are commonly found in corporate settings, educational institutions, and data centres due to their robustness and stability. They allow multiple devices to communicate efficiently without relying on fluctuating wireless signals.

Wired vs wireless: A balanced view

It’s important to note that while wireless networks offer mobility and ease of access, they are generally less reliable than wired connections. Understanding both the advantages and disadvantages of a wired network helps in making the right choice:

Advantages of a wired network over a wireless network:

• Enhanced security
• Faster and more reliable performance
• Minimal latency and interference
• Better suited for data-heavy applications
• More stable in high-density device environments

Disadvantages of a wired network over a wireless network:

• Requires physical installation
• Limited mobility
• Potentially higher upfront costs
• Cable clutter and routing challenges
• Less convenient for temporary or mobile setups

When weighing the advantages of the wired network over a wireless one, the key lies in what matters most to your setup: speed and stability or flexibility and convenience.

Final thoughts

While wireless technology continues to evolve, the benefits of a wired network remain crucial for scenarios where performance, security, and stability are non-negotiable. From office setups to home gaming systems, wired connections offer a robust and reliable solution that stands the test of time.

If you’re considering your networking options, weigh the wired connection benefits carefully against the disadvantages of having a wired network. In many cases, a hybrid approach – combining the convenience of wireless with the strength of wired – offers the best of both worlds.

Whether you’re building an enterprise-level infrastructure or simply want lag-free gaming at home, the advantages of a wired LAN and the overall advantages and disadvantages of a wired network are worth considering before making your next networking decision.

FAQs: Wired network questions answered