Wi-Fi vs Ethernet for VoIP: Which One Is Better?

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a technology that allows you to make phone calls over the internet. With the rise of remote work, VoIP has become an essential tool for businesses to communicate with their clients and employees. However, the quality of your VoIP calls depends largely on your internet connection. In this blog post, we'll compare Wi-Fi and Ethernet to help you pick the right one for your VoIP needs.

Wi-Fi vs Ethernet: What's the Difference?

Wi-Fi and Ethernet are two different ways of connecting to the internet. Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that uses radio waves to transmit data between devices. Ethernet, on the other hand, is a wired technology that uses cables to connect devices to a network.

Speed and Reliability

When it comes to speed and reliability, Ethernet is usually faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi. Ethernet cables can support much higher data rates than Wi-Fi, and they're not subject to interference from other wireless devices or walls. Wi-Fi, on the other hand, can be affected by the number of devices connected to the network, the distance between the router and the device, and the presence of obstacles such as walls or furniture.

VoIP Quality

VoIP calls require a stable and reliable internet connection to ensure high-quality audio and video. In general, Ethernet is the better option for VoIP as it provides a more stable and reliable connection. However, this doesn't mean that Wi-Fi can't be used for VoIP. If you have a strong Wi-Fi signal and a relatively small number of devices connected to your network, Wi-Fi can provide a good enough connection for VoIP calls.

Price

When it comes to price, Wi-Fi is generally the more affordable option. Most devices come with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, and Wi-Fi routers are generally less expensive than Ethernet switches. Ethernet cables can also be more expensive than Wi-Fi routers, especially if you need to run cables through walls or other difficult-to-reach places.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ethernet is generally the better option for VoIP as it provides a faster and more reliable connection. However, if you have a strong Wi-Fi signal and a relatively small number of devices connected to your network, Wi-Fi can provide a good enough connection for VoIP calls. It's important to consider your specific needs and circumstances when choosing between Wi-Fi and Ethernet for VoIP.

References

• 6 advantages of Ethernet over Wi-Fi by CablesToGo
• Wi-Fi vs Ethernet: Which Should You Use and Why? by MakeUseOf