Setting up a Network -- Wired or Wireless?

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To Wire or Not to Wire

Wireless networks are en vogue, but your installation won't be
successful unless you chose the right type of network and set it up
properly. Wired networks require that each computer be connected via a
wire to a central location, called a switch or hub. This often involves
installing cables through walls and ceilings and can present a
challenge for anyone.

If the computers in your home or office are all within 500 feet of each
other, a wireless network might be for you. A wireless network has no
cables. It can connect computers on different floors of a building or
even across the street. Aside from the obvious benefit of not having
wires, wireless networks are more convenient since the setup,
configuration, and reconfiguration can often be done within minutes,
without extensive planning.

Wireless networks, however, are not as fast as wired networks. If you
play computer games or want to view streaming video or other high-speed
multimedia, a wireless network might not have enough capacity. But, if
you just want to check e-mail and view web pages, a wireless network is
a good choice. To install a wireless network, you need a Wireless
Access Point and a wireless network card for each computer. You will
need to buy a wireless network card for each desktop computer, although
most newer laptops come equipped with one.

Security is not a large concern in a wired network, since someone would
have to physically connect to a wired network to break in. In wireless
networks, a car parked outside with a laptop could easily connect to
your network if you don't have proper security in place. To prevent
this from happening, encrypt your wireless network connections, or set
a password to access the network, or do both.

Do It Yourself or Call a Professional?
If you decide to use a wired network, consider whether you will install
it yourself or hire a professional. If you have a small number of
computers that are all situated very close to one another, you may be
able to buy pre-assembled network cables and connect them yourself. If
you need to wire multiple floors and lay wire through ceilings and
walls, you need a professional installation. If you go this route, it
is best to begin with a floor plan of your office or home, determine
what your current needs are, and consider how the network design can be
adapted to future needs. A professional installer should be familiar
with EIA/TIA standards, local wiring and electrical codes, and making
custom cables. Network cabling professionals are often judged by the
neatness of their work, because sloppy cabling is more apt to
deteriorate over time, harder to manage, and poses more of a fire risk.


Having a wireless network or a wired network is not mutually exclusive.
Many small offices have a wired network in addition to one or more
wireless networks, depending on their needs. Wireless networks are
continuing to get faster, more secure, and less expensive. Wired
networks will continue to coexist with wireless networks, often in the
same homes and offices.






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I have 54 Mbit setup and there's no sign of slowdown on streaming
videos to multiple computers. A cheaper 802.11b is limited to 10Mbit
and should be ok for web based videos and online games since cables
and DSL rarely go past 10mbit anyway.