Wi-Fi vs Ethernet for POS Systems

If you are a business owner, choosing the right point of sale (POS) system can have a significant impact on the success of your business. One important consideration when choosing a POS system is how it will connect to the internet - through Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Here, we will provide an unbiased comparison of these two options, with numbers to help you make the best decision.

Wi-Fi for POS Systems

Wi-Fi is a popular choice for POS systems as it creates a wireless network that connects all devices to the internet, making it easy to set up and use. Wi-Fi also allows for more mobility, giving you the freedom to place your POS system anywhere in your venue. This can be incredibly useful if you have a small or mobile business.

However, Wi-Fi has some downsides. The most significant one is that it is prone to interference from nearby devices, like microwaves and other Wi-Fi networks. This can cause delays and interruptions to your connection, affecting the speed and stability of your POS system. For instance, a study conducted by Akamai in 2017, revealed that the median download speed for Wi-Fi networks in the US was 32.1 Mbps, while the median upload speed was 11.1 Mbps.

Ethernet for POS Systems

Ethernet is a wired network that provides a stable and reliable connection between your POS system and the internet. With Ethernet, your POS system plugs directly into the router using a network cable, eliminating any potential interference. It also allows for faster data transfer rates, meaning you can process more transactions in less time.

One of the downsides of Ethernet is that it restricts the mobility of your POS system. You'll need to connect everything through a bunch of cables, and you won't be able to move it around as easily as you would with a Wi-Fi enabled system.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between Wi-Fi and Ethernet for your POS system, there is no one right answer. It really depends on your specific business needs. If you require mobility and don't mind slower transfer speeds, then Wi-Fi is a good option. If stability and speed are your priorities, then Ethernet is the way to go.

References

• "The State of the Internet" report, Akamai Technologies (2017).