There are two main types of networks: wired and wireless.

Wireless

Communicates through radio waves.

Wired

Communicates through data cables (most commonly Ethernet-based).

It’s very common for a home network to be a combination of wired and wireless.

The heart of a home network is the router. Although there are both wired and wireless routers, wireless routers do everything a wired router does, and provides much more flexibility. And the cost is often about the same.

Why choose a wireless network?

Wireless networks don't use cables for connections. Instead, they use radio waves, like cordless phones. The advantage of a wireless network is mobility and the freedom from the restriction of wires or a fixed connection. The benefits of having a wireless network include:

1. Mobility and freedom – play and work anywhere
2. No restriction of wires or a fixed connection
3. Quick, effortless installation: no drilling through walls
4. No cables to buy
5. Save cabling time and hassle
6. Easy to expand

Wireless networks allow you to use your computers anywhere in a home or office, even in the garden or out on the patio.  You can check your email or surf the Internet. You can print wirelessly to a printer in another room. There is no need to drill holes in the wall and install Ethernet cables.  You can network anywhere, without wires.  Outside your home, wireless networking is available in public "hotspots," such as coffee shops, businesses, hotel rooms, and airports. This is perfect for people who do a lot of traveling.

Learn more about hotspots.

Linksys by Cisco wireless routers are also equipped for wired connections, giving you the best of both worlds. Connect wirelessly when you'd like to roam around your house with your laptop. A PC located close to the router can use a faster wired connection and connect through wired when the utmost speed is important to you.  For convenience and ease of use, wireless networking is the answer.

Learn more about how wireless works.

Why choose a wired network?

Wired networks have been around for decades. Wired networking technology found today is known as Ethernet. The data cables, known as Ethernet network cables or wired (CAT5) cables, connect computers and other devices that make up the networks. Wired networks are best when you need to move large amounts of data at high speeds, such as for gaming or entertainment. The benefits of having a wired network include:

1. Relatively low cost
2. Offers the highest performance possible
3. Fast speed – standard Ethernet cable up to 100 Mbps
4. Faster speed – Gigabit Ethernet cable up to 1000 Mbps