Wireless & Wired Home Networking Basics – Part 1

Wireless AC Standard

Contractors should now transition from the current Wi-Fi standard of Wireless-N devices (802.11n) to the newer “AC” format. Faster than Wireless-N, Wireless AC functions in the less crowded 5 Ghz range, rather than the swamped 2.4 GHz range. This results in a decrease of interference and improved performance.

Commercial Grade

Experts are also now emphasizing the use of routers and switches that are commercial-grade because the majority of consumer-grade routers cannot handle the growing number of wireless devices that stream video, along with various Internet services. Many in the industry also tout the use of concealed WAPs (wireless access points), which act as signal repeaters that enable a wireless signal that will be dependable for the entire house. 

Wired Advantages

Although a home’s wireless network can be robust, supporting several mobile devices, experts compare it to a cake, which may be only sliced into a limited number of pieces. Video streaming services will consume 80% of a home’s wireless bandwidth, so imagine several users on tablets sharing this capacity as they watch shows on mobile devices.  Compare this to watching on a Smart TV connected to a wired home network using CAT6 and RG6 coaxial cable, which is much speedier and more dependable than wireless.

Wired Network Uses

Streaming video will consume the most bandwidth. Smart TVs, desktop PCs, video games, and other stationary entertainment devices should be connected to the wired home network. Experts recommend two CAT5E or CAT6 cables at each entertainment area and using HDMI cables for Blu-ray/DVD players and cable boxes located inside 10 yards, making more bandwidth available for wireless devices that stream video.

Part 2 will discuss 4K, Power over Ethernet, and Future Proofing.

Electrical Peace of Mind

Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs. For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.