Used by wireless-enabled
devices (computers,
mobiles, smartphones,
etc.) to log in to the
internet. Wireless is exactly
what it says; there are no
wires to connect.
A wired connection to a
broadband supplier.
Normally the connection
is via a network card in
the computer. Cable users
have an ethernet
connection from their
computer to the network.
A wired connection via a
conventional telephone
line, which needs a
modem to convert signals
to and from analogue for
transmission
Advantages
Not fixed to a
stationary
computer. Can be
used wherever
there is a wireless
hub which is
accessible.
Broadband
connections can
give better
reception and
are usually
faster than
dial-up
Can use
existing
telephone
circuits which is
useful in some
areas
Disadvantages
Need to have access to a
wireless hub. Can be less
secure than wired
connections. Tend to have
slower data transmission
speeds than wired
broadband methods.
Requires a base
which is wired in,
so it is less
flexible than
wireless.
Older technology gives poor
reception at times. The
conversion from digital to
analogue signals can cause
errors. Tends to be slower
than other connection
methods.
Bandwidth and transmission rate
Bandwidth is a measure of the available
capacity of a network (to carry data)
measured in bits per second. The
transmission rate is a measure of the
number of pieces of information that have
been transferred during a specific time
period, usually also measured in bits per
second. A high bandwidth means more
information can be carried in a given time,
so a higher transmission rate is achieved.
Insufficient bandwidth can result in
websites and servers appearing to run very
slowly.