Exam Tips - Wired vs Wireless

Exam Tips - Wired vs Wireless

Most common exam questions:

• "Advantage of wired over wireless?" → Faster speeds / more secure (can't be intercepted wirelessly) / more reliable (no interference)
• "Advantage of wireless over wired?" → Freedom to move around / convenient (no cables) / easy to connect devices
• "Why use wired for gaming?" → Low latency (minimal delay) / fast speeds / reliable connection
• "Why use wireless for laptop?" → Mobility / can work anywhere in WiFi range / no cable needed
• "What is WAP?" → Wireless Access Point - device that broadcasts WiFi signal
• "Security difference?" → Wired requires physical access to cable. Wireless can be intercepted by anyone in range.

Key comparison facts to memorize:

Aspect	Wired	Wireless
Speed	Faster (1-10 Gbps)	Slower (50-1200 Mbps)
Security	More secure	Less secure (use WPA2/WPA3)
Mobility	None (tethered)	Full mobility
Reliability	Very reliable	Can have interference

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Saying "wireless is always worse" - it has advantages (mobility, convenience)!
• Forgetting WHY wired is more secure (physical access needed vs broadcast to all)
• Not mentioning specific use cases (gaming = wired, laptop = wireless)
• Confusing WiFi security standards (WPA2 is current, WEP is insecure)
• Not explaining interference for wireless (walls, microwaves, other networks)

Perfect exam answer structure:

"Explain why a school might use wired connections for desktop computers but wireless for laptops" (4 marks):

Desktops don't move, so wired is suitable (1 mark).
Wired provides faster speeds for school applications (1 mark).
Laptops need mobility to work in different rooms (1 mark).
Wireless allows laptops to connect anywhere in WiFi range (1 mark).