Having reliable connections with synchronous upload and download speeds are essential in today’s increasingly connected world. If you’re looking for the best speeds possible, you may be wondering whether the internet is faster when using ethernet or Wi-Fi.
Which Has Faster Internet Speeds: Ethernet Connections or Wi-Fi Connections?
Usually, ethernet cables provide faster speeds and a more reliable connection than Wi-Fi.
How Wi-Fi Works
Wi-Fi network is a wireless network that offers internet connection to users. It sends information between a Wi-Fi router and connected devices using radio waves. These radio waves can use one of two frequencies to transmit information: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz.
While this connection type is quick and convenient, it typically offers less reliable connection speeds than wired connection types as wireless signals are subject to greater interference, which can affect performance.
Benefits
- No wired connection necessary for internet access
- Can directly access mobile devices
Drawbacks
- Wi-Fi signal can be less reliable than ethernet connections and subject to interference
How Ethernet Cables Work
Ethernet cables can be used in both wide area networks (WAN) or local area networks (LAN) to transmit data along a wired connection. Modern options come in various categories, from Cat 5 up to Cat 8, which offer various data rates and bandwidth.
Most people generally consider a wired ethernet connection to offer faster speeds, a more reliable connection, more consistent speeds, and better security than a wireless connection, like Wi-Fi, does. Because of this reliability, the following are more likely to use ethernet than they would use Wi-Fi:
- Gamers, especially those who enjoy online gaming
- Remote workers who have to transfer large files and sensitive data
- People who have large firmware updates for their connected devices, like smart TVs
- Those who want a more stable connection
Benefits
- Ethernet speeds are generally faster than Wi-Fi speeds are
- Ethernet generally provides a more reliable connection than Wi-Fi does
- Ethernet usually provides more consistent speeds with lower latency than Wi-Fi does
Drawbacks
- Requires an ethernet port, cable, and a network card
- Some devices require additional hardware like adapters and extenders
- Cannot directly connect to wireless devices like smartphones
Can You Use Wi-Fi and Ethernet at Once?
You can use both Wi-Fi and ethernet in your home network at once. The network will automatically favor the option that offers better performance.
How to Make Internet Speed Quicker Without Ethernet Cables
Adding an ethernet cable is a quick and easy way to boost internet speeds, but it isn’t the only way. Other ways to increase maximum speed and/or reliability of internet connections at home include:
- Restarting the router and modem
- Selecting hardware with better specs
- Moving the router to a central location in the home
- Upgrading or adding a Wi-Fi access point to your home network
- Reducing the number of connected devices in your home network
- Clearing browser caches
- Switching to a different internet plan with your internet service provider (ISP), such as switching to a 500 Mbps plan to a 1 Gbps plan