Wi-Fi VS MOBILE DATA

Wifi is a wireless network commonly used by computer devices to connect to the internet without using any cables.

Currently used wireless networks such as GSM, CDMA and LTE are known as cellular networks.

ADVANTAGES OF Wi-Fi:

1. Compatible for various types of devices

Currently, Wi-Fi networks can not only be accessed by certain devices such as PCs or laptops, but can also be accessed via smartphones, Androids, tablets and cellphones that have access to wireless networks.

2. Can be used anywhere without location restrictions

Users can move from one place to another. WiFi networks are also installed in places that are busy with people, such as cafes, refreshing places, hotels, etc.

3. Wide reach

Wi-Fi networks have wide area coverage. Even though it has limitations, as long as it is connected to the Hotspot, there are no problems.

DISADVANTAGES OF Wi-Fi:

1. Lack of security

The WiFi network is public, so anyone can access it, the danger is that it could be accessed by users who have negative interests.

Even though a WiFi network can be strengthened by installing a password, this does not rule out the possibility of irresponsible people leaking the password or being hacked by unknown people.

2. Distance limitations

Signal problems if we are far from the connection source, this can be caused by our free movement with the source. Therefore, consider the appropriate distance. Or you might not get a connection back.

3. Weaknesses when transferring large data

Wi-Fi networks are not suitable for transferring large data.

ADVANTAGES OF MOBILE DATA:

1. Security

Mobile data network security standards are service providers have a strong incentive to protect users' privacy and safeguard their data. Mistakes in the field of security can result in loss of reputation and business, and even pose a risk of major financial loss. Therefore, network operators have dedicated cybersecurity professionals who develop security updates frequently, so that risks can be minimized.

2. Coverage

Cellular networks provide customers with broad network coverage, usually nationwide.

Why subscribing to a mobile network that offers wider coverage wherever you go is considered almost mandatory. Moreover, LTE coverage is expected to expand further along with rapid advances in cellular technology, especially 5G.

Additionally, standard Low-Power Wide-Area (LPWA) cellular IoT technology goes even further, extending coverage to rural environments, underground tunnels, and buildings.

3. Bandwidth

The cellular network offers speeds up to 1Gbps – allowing users to enjoy video and other high-bandwidth IoT applications.

Now with the advent of 5G, cellular networks are ready to revolutionize data transfer speeds, even offering speeds of up to 10 Gbps.

4. Customized Bands for Various Applications

LTE has dedicated frequency bands for different applications, ensuring that consumers do not have to compete with other technologies in the same band, thereby minimizing the possibility of lag.

Coordinated LTE standard protocol frequencies and resources.

DISADVANTAGES OF MOBILE DATA:

1. Wireless communications are affected by physical obstructions, climate conditions, and interference from other wireless devices.

2. Privacy Issues

Privacy issues are common with internet connections. Many people access the internet through their mobile devices, so search engines often archive users' search history. Some companies may obtain this information for their personal gain.

3. 4G network connectivity is limited to certain regions and operators.

From my point of view between Wi-Fi and cellular data:

1. Cost

Simple example: In one house, there are 4 cellphones and all of them need an internet network. In this condition, it is better for us to install Wi-Fi because it is cheaper than buying all the internet quota for 1 cellphone.

2. Faster

Internet quota is faster than Wi-Fi. Sometimes Wi-Fi lags and it takes a long time to open heavy sites like canva.com.

If I open the canva.com site to design an image, I use my internet quota and turn off my Wi-Fi. After I finished using canva.com, I turned off cellular data and turned my Wi-Fi back on (I have Wi-Fi at home and I also bought an internet quota for editing images on canva.com).

3. Wide reach

Cellular data can be used anywhere, while Wi-Fi can only be used within 1 meter.

The point is, I actually prefer buying internet quota because it can be taken away and is faster than a Wi-Fi network. But internet quota is more expensive and it's not just me who uses it (my sister, my nephew, my parents, my sister) all use the internet.

If my family buys a monthly internet quota, it could cost around IDR 700,000. Meanwhile for Wi-Fi, I only pay Rp. 115,000 per month for my Wi-Fi which can be used for my entire family.