Wi-Fi and Wired Connections

Devices can connect to a network using either wired connections (typically Ethernet cables) or wireless connections (typically Wi-Fi). Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. This lesson covers both types and helps you understand when each is most appropriate.

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Wired Connections (Ethernet)

A wired connection uses physical cables to connect a device to the network. The most common type is an Ethernet connection using copper twisted-pair cables (e.g. Cat5e or Cat6) or fibre optic cables.

How Ethernet Works

1. The device's NIC is connected to a switch or router via an Ethernet cable.
2. Data is transmitted as electrical signals through copper cables, or as light pulses through fibre optic cables.
3. The cable provides a direct, physical link between the device and the network.

Types of Ethernet Cable