What are the benefits and downfalls of wireless networking?

Answer 1

Wireless networking has a few ups and downs. The most notable is that cable does not need to be run in order for the network to exist. Computers are able to connect to the internet and communicate amongst each other without the need of CAT5e or CAT6 (Gigabit) being run to a Router, Network Switch, or Hub. This allows the network to serve a decent area and makes setting up a home network easy. Prior to wireless networking one would have to run cable to the computers in each room to a "gateway". Another positive is that WiFi networking (now-a-days) is quite easy to setup. Any home user is capable of setting up a multiple computer network via WiFi. Now with connection wizards and the such, one is able to configure a wireless network in under 30 minutes.

Now for the downfalls to wireless networking. One of the biggest ones is connection security. Broadcasting information wirelessly results in the ability for the information to be intercepted and captured. This is where wireless security steps in. There are numerous types but as a general rule of thumb, No important information such as Social Security numbers, Bank Account or Credit Card information should be transferred over a wireless connection. Even if you use WPA2-AES (one of the strongest forms) confidential, classified, or sensitive information should not be transferred via a wireless connection. A skilled hacker can also hack your wireless network, and use it for their possible misdeeds including downloading pornography, using it to attack another network and even steal your information. Another caveat to the use of wireless networking is range. Most wireless networks have limited range without the use of numerous AP's (access points) or antennas. (this also affects security) The amount of walls and their contents can affect signal reception as well.