Introduction

In today's digital age, having a reliable and efficient network infrastructure is fundamental for any business. When designing or upgrading this infrastructure, one of the most important decisions is choosing between structured cabling and wireless (WIFI) networks. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the optimal choice will depend on the specific needs of each organization.

In this article, we will analyze in detail the benefits of modern structured cabling compared to WIFI networks, to help you make an informed decision about the best solution for your company.

What is Modern Structured Cabling?

Structured cabling is a system of cables, connectors, conduits, and devices that establish a telecommunications infrastructure in a building. A modern structured cabling system typically includes:

• Twisted pair cables (Cat6, Cat6A, Cat7, or Cat8)
• Fiber optics (singlemode or multimode)
• Patch panels
• Racks and cabinets
• Cable management systems
• Consolidation points
• Telecommunications outlets

Current structured cabling standards allow for data transmission speeds of up to 10 Gbps (Cat6A), 40 Gbps (Cat8), or even 100 Gbps (fiber optics), representing a significant advancement over previous generations.

What are Modern WIFI Networks?

WIFI networks are wireless communication systems that use radio waves to transmit data between devices. Modern WIFI networks include standards such as:

• Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): With theoretical speeds up to 3.5 Gbps
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): With theoretical speeds up to 9.6 Gbps
• Wi-Fi 6E: Which uses the 6 GHz band to reduce congestion

These networks use strategically placed access points (APs) to provide coverage throughout an area, allowing user mobility while maintaining connectivity.

Benefits of Modern Structured Cabling

1. Greater Speed and Bandwidth

One of the most significant advantages of modern structured cabling is its ability to provide much higher data transmission speeds than WIFI networks:

• Cat6A cable can support speeds up to 10 Gbps over distances up to 100 meters
• Cat8 cable can support speeds up to 40 Gbps over shorter distances
• Fiber optics can support speeds of 100 Gbps or more, depending on the type

These speeds are consistent and unaffected by environmental factors or interference, ensuring stable performance for high-bandwidth applications like large file transfers, high-definition videoconferencing, or cloud applications.

2. Greater Reliability and Stability

Structured cabling offers a direct physical connection between devices, which eliminates many of the problems associated with wireless networks:

• No interference from other electronic devices
• No coverage issues or dead zones
• No signal degradation due to physical obstacles like walls or floors
• No competition for bandwidth with other devices on the same network

This greater reliability is crucial for critical applications where connectivity loss can have serious consequences, such as point-of-sale systems, medical equipment, or industrial control systems.

3. Greater Security

Wired networks are inherently more secure than wireless networks for several reasons:

• To access a wired network, an attacker needs physical access to a network port
• No signal transmission that can be intercepted from outside the building
• It is more difficult to perform "man-in-the-middle" attacks on wired networks
• No vulnerabilities specific to wireless protocols like WPA2/WPA3

For companies that handle sensitive information or are subject to strict privacy and security regulations, this advantage can be decisive.

4. Lower Latency

Latency, or the time it takes for a data packet to travel from its source to its destination, is significantly lower on wired networks:

• Modern wired networks can have latencies as low as 1-2 ms
• WIFI networks typically have latencies of 5-10 ms or more, depending on conditions

This difference may seem small, but it is crucial for time-sensitive applications like videoconferencing, online gaming, financial applications, or real-time control systems.

5. Longer Lifespan and Lower Total Cost of Ownership

Although the initial investment in a structured cabling system may be higher than for a WIFI network, it can be more economical in the long run:

• A well-installed structured cabling system can last 15-20 years or more
• WIFI access points typically need to be replaced every 3-5 years
• Structured cabling requires less maintenance and troubleshooting
• No need for frequent upgrades to keep up with new wireless standards

Additionally, structured cabling can support multiple services (data, voice, video, security, access control) over the same infrastructure, increasing its value.

Benefits of Modern WIFI Networks

1. Flexibility and Mobility

The main advantage of WIFI networks is the freedom they offer users to move while maintaining connectivity:

• Employees can work from anywhere within the coverage area
• Facilitates the implementation of concepts like "hot desking" or flexible workspaces
• Enables connectivity for mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, or laptops
• Facilitates impromptu meetings in different spaces without worrying about connectivity

This flexibility is especially valuable in dynamic environments where workspace layouts change frequently.

2. Ease of Installation and Scalability

WIFI networks are generally easier and faster to install than structured cabling:

• They do not require construction work to run cables through walls, ceilings, or floors
• They can be quickly deployed in historic buildings or rented spaces where structural modifications are not allowed
• It is easier to add new users or expand the network to new areas
• They allow devices to connect in locations where it would be difficult or impossible to run cables

3. Lower Initial Cost

The initial cost of implementing a WIFI network is often lower than that of a complete structured cabling system:

• Fewer materials (no cables needed for each device)
• Less labor for installation
• No civil works or structural modifications required
• Shorter implementation time, which reduces indirect costs

This initial cost advantage can be significant for small businesses or startups with limited budgets.

4. Support for Modern Devices

Many modern devices only have wireless connectivity:

• Smartphones and tablets
• Many modern ultrathin laptops
• IoT (Internet of Things) devices
• Wearables and other smart devices

For companies that use these devices or implement BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) strategies, WIFI networks are essential.

What is the Best Option for Your Business?

Consider a Hybrid Solution

In most cases, the best solution is not to choose exclusively between structured cabling or WIFI, but to implement a hybrid strategy that leverages the strengths of both technologies:

• Structured Cabling for:
  • Fixed equipment requiring high performance (servers, workstations for graphic design or video editing)
  • Areas with high user density (call centers, computer labs)
  • Critical applications that cannot tolerate interruptions
  • The network backbone and connections between switches and WIFI access points
• WIFI for:
  • Mobile devices (laptops, tablets, smartphones)
  • Common areas and meeting rooms
  • Flexible workspaces
  • Areas where it is difficult or costly to install cabling
  • IoT devices and other equipment with only wireless connectivity

Factors to Consider in Your Decision

When evaluating the best solution for your company, consider the following factors:

• Business type and applications: What kind of applications do you use? How critical are they to your operation?
• User density: How many users will need to connect simultaneously in a given area?
• Mobility required: Do your employees need to move frequently while maintaining connectivity?
• Security: What level of security do your data and systems require?
• Budget: What is your initial budget and how much can you invest in long-term maintenance?
• Existing infrastructure: What infrastructure do you already have in place?
• Future plans: How do you expect your company to grow in the coming years?

Conclusion

Both modern structured cabling and WIFI networks have their place in today's enterprise network infrastructure. Structured cabling offers greater speed, reliability, security, and lower latency, while WIFI networks provide flexibility, mobility, and ease of installation.

In most cases, a hybrid solution that combines both technologies will be the most effective option, leveraging the strengths of each according to the specific needs of different areas and applications within your organization.

At Synergia Soluciones SAS, we have extensive experience in designing and implementing network infrastructures optimized for the specific needs of each client. Our experts can help you evaluate your requirements and develop a customized solution that optimally combines structured cabling and wireless technology.

Need help designing or upgrading your company's network infrastructure? Contact us today for a free consultation.