Network connection types explained

What are the different types of network connections? 

Network connections come in two main types: wired and wireless. Wired options like cable and DSL offer faster, more reliable speeds but require physical connections. Wireless options, such as Wi-Fi and cellular, provide more flexibility and mobility, although speeds vary. Some other types, such as satellite and mobile networks, are great for remote areas, while VPNs offer secure connections. In this article, we’ll explore each type and help you figure out which one works best for you.

Wired connections

A wired connection refers to network connection types where multiple devices are physically linked with wires. Wired internet connections generally offer higher speeds and greater reliability. We’ll be discussing cable, DSL, and ISDN connections.

• Cable: A cable connection is a physical connection made between devices using a cable. It connects to the internet using the same coaxial cables that provide cable TV service. A cable modem operates over cable TV lines, offering speeds from 10 Mbps to 1 Gbps.
• DSL: A digital subscriber line (DSL) sends internet signals through phone lines and allows simultaneous phone and internet use. It uses a 2-wire copper telephone line and a DSL modem, providing speeds from 5 to 120 Mbps. DSL is rare outside rural areas and has slower speeds due to electrical resistance in copper lines. Speed depends on the distance from the internet service provider's hub.
• ISDN: An integrated services digital network (ISDN) is a circuit-switched telephone network system that transmits data, phone calls, and videos over digital lines. It supports multiple data types over one line, with speeds ranging from 64 Kbps to 2 Mbps. ISDN is slower, more expensive, and less flexible than newer connection types, leading to its phase-out.

Wireless connections

Unlike a wired network, a wireless network doesn’t use physical cables to connect to the internet. Instead, this type of network transfers data through radio waves emitted by wireless routers or access points. A mesh network, where devices are all interconnected, is a common network topology for wireless networks. Two of the most widely used wireless technologies are Wi-Fi and cellular connections, each with its own characteristics and use cases.

• Wi-Fi: A Wi-Fi network connection is a wireless connection that uses radio waves to provide high-speed internet access. The router broadcasts a signal to nearby devices, which then send requests back. Wi-Fi is an inexpensive option with wide coverage and easy installation, allowing users to move freely within the network range. 
• Cellular: Cellular networks provide wireless internet through cell phones using technologies like 3G, 4G, and 5G. Cellular connections cover a vast area and allow internet access from remote locations if a cell tower is nearby. 3G offers speeds up to 2 Mbps, 4G typically ranges from 10 to 100 Mbps, though LTE Advanced can exceed 200 Mbps. 5G speeds depend on the band: low-band offers around 100 Mbps, mid-band ranges from approximately 500 Mbps to 1 Gbps, and mmWave can reach 1 to 10 Gbps but has a limited range. 

Satellite connections

Satellite internet is usually used in areas where broadband internet isn’t available. It accesses the internet using a dish that communicates with satellites in Earth’s orbit.

A satellite connection doesn’t require underground or overhead cables, which works well for those in remote areas. Older satellite connection speeds ranged from 512 kbps to 2 Mbps, but newer ones like Starlink can reach up to 200 Mbps in some areas.

In addition to lower speeds, satellite internet tends to be more expensive than other options. Satellite network connectivity can be less reliable than wired network connections as well.

Broadband connections

The term “broadband” overlaps with many categories (for example, cable and DSL), so we’ll use it as an umbrella term for high-speed connections. It is shorthand for “broad bandwidth” and simply refers to high-speed internet access that’s faster than dial-up access.

Unlike a dial-up connection, broadband communication channels allow users to access the phone and internet connection simultaneously. Also, more than one person can access the internet at the same time. 

Broadband internet is an expensive option, though, and can be unreliable. Broadband networks are also shared, which makes them more susceptible to security breaches.

Mobile connections

“Mobile internet connections” is a broad term encompassing any way mobile devices make an internet connection, including both Wi-Fi and cellular networks. These connections use cell towers to transmit radio signals to mobile devices, so people can enjoy internet use while out on the go.

VPN connections

A virtual private network (VPN) is a service that protects users’ internet connections and privacy online. VPNs use tunneling protocols to create an encrypted tunnel for your online traffic and protect your online privacy by changing your IP address.

A VPN creates secure, encrypted network tunnels over other types of network connections. For example, an enterprise private network using leased lines encompasses different types of networks. It’s a smart addition but not an internet service provider.

Local area network (LAN)

A LAN is a local network that allows users to have exclusive access to the same system connection at a common location, like home networks, building networks, or corporate office networks. For example, a large LAN can span multiple buildings within a corporate campus.

It’s important to note that a LAN might sometimes be confused with a storage area network (SAN), particularly because both deal with network connections. However, SANs and LANs serve very different purposes: SANs are specialized for high-speed storage access and typically connect large data storage devices within a limited area, while LANs provide general network connectivity for devices in a local environment.

Which network connection type should you choose?

Now that you understand the options, it’s time to determine the network connection that is right for you. Consider these factors when making your choice:

• Speed. The speed of your network connection determines how quickly you can browse the web, stream videos, download files, and perform other online activities. Higher speeds are ideal for gaming, video conferencing, and households with multiple users.
• Cost. Internet plans vary in price depending on the provider, speed, and data limits. It's important to find a balance between affordability and the features you need. Cheaper plans may have slower speeds or data caps, while premium plans offer higher performance at a greater cost.
• Reliability. A reliable connection ensures minimal downtime and consistent performance. Fiber-optic and wired connections tend to be more stable than wireless options, making them preferable for businesses or remote work.
• Data usage needs. Some internet plans have data limits, while others offer unlimited access. If you frequently stream in high-definition, download large files, or work with cloud-based applications, an unlimited or high-data plan is recommended.
• Availability. Not all types of network connections are available in every location. Urban areas may have access to fiber-optic and high-speed broadband, while rural regions may rely on satellite or mobile.
• Security features. Opt for a connection with strong encryption and protection against cyber threats.

When choosing a network connection, security should always be a priority. Fiber-optic internet is the safest option since it transmits data as light pulses, making it difficult to intercept. Wired connections like Ethernet also offer strong security, while Wi-Fi and cellular networks are more vulnerable to hacking if not properly secured. If security is your main concern, fiber or a wired connection with encryption and firewalls is best. Cable is a good alternative, but wireless options should be used with extra precautions like VPNs. Ultimately, the right choice depends on balancing security, reliability, and speed based on your needs.