Early network communication medium using networking cables to connect different computers to the network within a confined perimeter is what we called Ethernet, while Wi-Fi is the new scientific medium of connecting different devices to the network available at a particular timeframe using wireless technology infrastructure. Read on to know more about Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
Simultaneous Connection to Ethernet and Wi-Fi
Ethernet is a type of connection that requires the installation of networking cables to connect different computers through an IP address to the Router, this type of network connection is LAN, to establish communication between them and packet transmission available for computers on the same network. And Wi-Fi is a wireless network infrastructure that enables connection wirelessly between different devices on the network.
Factors that determine the connection of Ethernet and Wi-Fi over a network
- Proper configuration of the IP addresses at both ends.
- Proper network cable configuration
- Installation and configuration of network infrastructure like routers, switches, repeaters, etc.
- Identification of network cable type (e.g., Type A or Type B network cable). Though this depends on the type of device to be connected to the network.
- Access point setup.
- Components for Ethernet and Wi-Fi
The major components for Ethernet are listed below:
- Computers
- Networking cables
- RJ45
- Router, Switch, Repeater.
- Below are the components for Wi-Fi
- Computers
- Transmitters, e.g., Ubiquitous.
- Router
- Radio signal
- GUI connector (as the case may be).
Simultaneous Usage on Single Device.
How possible? Yes, it is possible to connect to the Ethernet and Wi-Fi network at the same time. However, there is a preference to which one the device makes use of at a time, this simply means that the one with the highest bandwidth (transmitting with a high signal) will displace the one with the lowest bandwidth. The two together form a channel bonding (an example is when used Speedily) which allows automatic displacement, however, the device network configuration matters – this is beyond the scope of this Article.
How this simultaneous connection works.
- Ethernet – is considered to be more efficient and effective in terms of speed, packet transmission, less data loss, security breach prevention, and general security of data in transit (protecting the Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability of data), and many more.
When using Ethernet, the connection is direct to the router from the switch without any delay because there are ports assigned to each device on the ethernet network infrastructure, and once properly configured, it connects while waiting for internet resources availability which shows that the device is enabled.
- Wi-Fi – is wireless, meaning no use of networking cables, the Access point for both ends only needs to be enabled after which the two devices will be connected to the network, the mediums are;
- Hotspot
- Connectifiers, etc.
All these mediums required a means of authentication unless they are configured to be freely accessible by anyone. Connection through Wi-Fi may be slow due to so many reasons which most common one is overloading (many users on a single network). A common alert message is “Radius server not available”.
- Now, connecting to both Ethernet (using networking cables) and Wi-Fi (using Connectifiers) can only work if the two are not on the same network, this also initiates your device to choose any of the networks available. This connection is allowed only on Laptops or Desktops.
Network device configuration:
- Does this necessary? Yes, it does.
Modern network hardware has a built-in configuration that allows many devices to connect ethernet and wi-fi networks simultaneously. This is superb! Examples of OS with such infrastructure, are Windows 7 and above, macOS, and Linux OS.
- Network, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi – how can they affect packet transmission?
A Network is the broad connection of different devices to establish communication between them, ethernet and wi-fi are the media through which devices are connected to the network. So, packet transmission can be affected if the network is down, i.e., no communication. But in the case of ethernet and wi-fi, only the affected devices will not transmit packets.
Conclusion
The use of both Ethernet and Wi-Fi simultaneously is possible and more efficient when considering automatic switching to an available and functional network when engaging in internet-based tasks, but it could also create some challenging situations later on.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Could there be a problem with the simultaneous connection of ethernet and wi-fi?
Yes, if both are on the same network there can be a problem with connectivity.
- Is it all devices that allow this?
No, only those with the features.
- What will happen to data transmission if the network is down?
The data in transit will be held until the network is back.
- How do ethernet and wi-fi work?
It is a long process but it can be simply explained as checking device network configuration.
