IT - Learning Aim B- Implications and impact of connection types 

Security

With a wired network an intruder must first gain access to the building to physically connect to the network. Once inside the building he or she requires physical access to a network jack or cable. 

Accessing a wireless network does not require physical access. If someone is within range of a network's radio signals they may be able to gain access to the network. For example the car park may put someone in range. 

Using a strong encryption such as a Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). Installing WPA security on your network will ensure secure connectivity between wireless systems and corporate networks.  

Reliability 

Wired connections are more consistent than wireless connections. In a home network, wireless signals are subject to interference from other home applications including microwave ovens, cordless phones and garage door openers. 

In a corporate network an unstable wireless connection can have a detrimental effect on software performance and productivity will suffer. 

Control 

With a cabled network, unauthorised users cannot use the network which would use up bandwidth and slow down the network with non essential traffic. Tablets and smartphones also  use bandwidth and may affect performance. 

Freeloaders are intruders that gain access to the system and use it rather than paying for their own broadband connection to the internet. To prevent this from happening network managers should ensure that there is a WPA in place. 

A new network router comes with a username and blank password which allows the owner to choose their own password. 

Speed 

Wired connections are faster than wireless connections. A wireless network requires a central device called the Wireless Access Point (WAP). which needs to be installed in a central location so that radio frequencies can reach it with minimum interference. A wireless router combines a router and a WAP. Wi-Fi performance degrades on computers further away from the WAP. Extra routers and WAPs may need to be installed to ensure that productivity is not affected. 

In the open, Wi-Fi signals can reach 30 meters or more but walls and other obstructions will…