Internet Connection

[?] Subscribe To This Site

Check this out!

Intro to Wireless Networking -- What is an Infrared Wireless LAN?

123inkjets - Save up to 75% on Printer ink!!

Sharing an Internet Connection

Sharing an internet connection has become more and more popular thanks to the cost of high bandwidth options dropping precipitously over the last few years. With the number of users attached to a specific connection no longer adversely affecting transfer speeds, sharing means a lot fewer headaches and easier partitioning of a household’s internet resources.

Let’s examine some of the best methods out there for home networking.

The Wireless Household

At first glance, it would seem that using wireless routers when sharing an internet connection is the most attractive solution. You don’t have to drill any holes, you don’t have to lay any cable, and you can even surf the net from the bath tub, if that’s what really floats your boat. Wireless routers are indeed a great way to spread the internet love throughout a home.However, there are a few downsides to keep in mind.

One drawback is that transfer speeds are limited to 54 Mbps, which is not a big deal while online but could become an issue if you try to transfer large files from computer to computer over the network.

The other negative is that the radio signals used by routers can often be interfered with by cordless phones or other wireless gadgets. They are also not ideal for penetrating through thick walls or up to the very top floor of a large house. The latter problem can usually be solved by using a wireless range extender like the Linksys WRE54G wireless range extender.

The Wired Experience

Choosing to go wired might not offer the same type of freedom when sharing an internet connection, but you will enjoy some definite perks. One benefit is speed. With transfers of up to 1000 Mbps available, even DVD-quality video will copy quickly and painlessly. Dropped connections are also almost non-existent. This means that you will never have to worry about losing your connection in the middle of an important internet-related task. Security with a wired connection is also a plus, as it is impossible for anyone not physically present in your home to connect to your network. This means that you don’t have to worry about neighbors sharing an internet connection with you instead of shelling out for their own.

Of course, you will have to deal with the drilling and cabling mentioned above, but for many that is a small price to pay for a stable and quick connection that is always there for them when they need it.

Return to the top of Sharing an Internet Connection.

If you like this article, you may also be interested in the Wireless Networking Tutorial.

ADD TO YOUR SOCIAL BOOKMARKS: