Elements of Networking: Speed

One of the distinguishing features of a network is its speed: how much data per second the network can transmit.

• Dialup networking (where a computer connects over an ordinary telephone line) is the slowest form of networking in common use, with a maximum speed of 56K.

• Some networks' speeds depend on the number of simultaneous users in an area. Wireless networking is usually much faster than dialup, but your wireless network access can slow down when you're using an access point shared by many other users. In some cases, home cable modem connections can also be slowed by high use in your neighborhood.

• Ethernet-based networking is the highest-speed form of networking in common use, with 100 MB speeds widely available and gigabit (1,000 MB) speeds being used more and more frequently. Ethernet is also the foundation of the campus network. However, Ethernet is the least widely available form of networking once you leave the campus area.

Rule of Thumb: Higher speed = higher price

Generally speaking, the faster a network is, the more expensive it is for home users to have installed in their home.

For more information on how to choose an Internet service provider based on factors including both network speed and monthly price, see Choosing a Dialup Service Provider and Choosing a High-Speed Internet Service Provider.

Next element: Size