Computing equipment in University computer labs, desktop computers assigned to employees or student workers, and all digital displays must connect to the FDU network through a wired (Ethernet) connection. This requirement applies across all departments and campuses. Laptop computers are not covered by this policy.
Why Wired Ethernet Is Required
University computer labs are provisioned for wired connectivity. Consistent performance and dedicated bandwidth help maintain standard system images, deliver software updates and security patches, and support sustained data transfers. Wireless connectivity does not meet these requirements for lab and desktop environments.
Wired and Wireless Connections
Wired Ethernet
A wired connection uses a physical Ethernet cable to connect a device to the network through a switch or router, which provides access to the internet.
Advantages
- Typically faster and more consistent speeds.
- Lower latency, which benefits real-time applications.
- A wired connection is generally more secure because it is harder to intercept.
- Unaffected by Wi-Fi congestion or radio interference.
- Reliable for large file transfers and critical systems.
Tradeoffs
- Requires physical cabling and is less flexible.
- Cabling, labor, and infrastructure can make installation more costly.
- Less convenient for mobile devices.
- Equipment can be harder to move or reconfigure.
Wireless (Wi-Fi)
A wireless connection uses radio waves (Wi-Fi) to connect devices through a wireless access point to the network. These devices include laptops, phones, tablets, and Internet of Things (IoT) equipment.
Advantages
- Mobility and flexibility within Wi-Fi range.
- Can be easier to set up and expand.
- No cable is needed at each device, reducing clutter.
- Supports phones, tablets, laptops, and IoT devices.
- Useful for guest access and temporary setups.
Tradeoffs
- Speeds can be slower than wired connections and vary with the Wi-Fi standard and network load.
- Higher latency can affect real-time applications.
- Other devices and walls can interfere with a Wi-Fi connection.
- Wireless connections can be less secure and more susceptible to eavesdropping if not properly secured.
- Signal strength can vary with distance, creating weak-signal areas or dead zones.
Choosing the Right Connection
Wired is best when maximum speed, reliability, and security matter, especially for critical systems, large file transfers, and fixed workstations.
Wireless is best when mobility, flexibility, and convenience matter, especially for mobile devices, guests, temporary setups, and areas where running cables is impractical.
The Bottom Line
Both wired and wireless connections have a place. Modern networks often combine them to balance speed, security, flexibility, and coverage. At FDU, this general comparison does not change the requirement for labs, desktop computers, and digital displays covered by this policy: they must use wired Ethernet.
Requirements
- Connect all lab computing equipment, including workstations, printers, and peripherals that require network access, through wired Ethernet.
- Connect all desktop computers assigned to employees or student workers through wired Ethernet, regardless of location.
- Connect all digital displays, including monitors in common areas, classrooms, and athletic venues, through wired Ethernet. Any ancillary device that requires internet access must also use a wired connection.
- Do not use wireless connectivity in place of a required wired connection.
Exceptions
Any deviation, including a request to design or configure a lab or desktop environment for wireless connectivity, requires prior written approval from the Associate Vice President of Systems and Networking. Do not proceed with a wireless design or implementation until that approval is granted.
Cost of a Data Jack
The requesting department is responsible for the cost of providing an Ethernet data jack for an individual workstation.
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