Wired Versus Wireless Networks: What's Right For You? (continued)
- Security Given the kinds of sophisticated protection technologies now available for traditional wired networks, it's a "not trivial" feat to tap into someone's cable today, says Stanton. Wireless, however, is inherently less secure, especially since most businesses today still don't encrypt data across internal networks. "Security represents a constant battle for network administrators when it comes to wireless networks," says Spencer.
- Convenience Here is where wireless technology really shines. It is primarily because of convenience that more and more enterprises are installing wireless networks inside their buildings or throughout their corporate campuses. Employees can easily move around the building, take their laptops into meetings and cafeterias, and otherwise work more flexibly than if they were anchored to desktop computers hardwired to the network.
- Cost effectiveness Wireless also provides a speedier ROI because the initial investment is so much less than wired installations, and the payback in improved worker productivity is so immediate. Moreover, wireless is much more economical in older buildings where ripping out and replacing of older infrastructure would otherwise be necessary.
What we're likely to see, according to networking experts, is that even as wired networks will remain the technology of choice for what Stanton calls the "heavy lifting" of a business, wireless penetration will continue to increase. Says Stanton, "Except for very unusual circumstances, we recommend that clients use a wired network as the foundation for their networking needs and layer wireless on top of that. That way you get the best of both worlds."
About the Author
Alice LaPlante is an award-winning writer and editor who has covered business for more than 20 years.
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