Technology is constantly evolving, which means that the way we use it changes as well. Years ago, people were using Wi-Fi for all their internet needs. Nowadays, cellular data has become a popular choice. Why? And how do you know which one to choose when? This article will outline the difference between Wi-Fi and cellular data.

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a wireless connection that allows you to use the internet without connecting through a wired network, such as with an Ethernet cable. It usually requires you to be in the vicinity of the Wi-Fi signal, which means you need to be within a certain range or connected to a network.

Wi-Fi networks are easy to set up and can be used at home or in public places like coffee shops and libraries. When you're on Wi-Fi, your device will automatically detect nearby networks and connect if they're open.

In general, Wi-Fi networks are created by one device (usually a router) and all of the users of that Wi-Fi network have their data sent through the router which is connected via the ethernet cable or wirelessly with a SIM card. For homes and offices, the most common way is the ethernet cable. It is relatively cheap and provides the best data speeds. That is because the ethernet cables, unlike cellular connections, are connected to the internet service provider via the underground cables, so it does not incur extra costs to the provider based on the amount of data you use. It is a perfect option for fixed locations that have all the infrastructure needed - houses, offices, shops, and so on.

What is Cellular Data?

Cellular data is a type of internet connection that uses cellular networks to provide service. In 2020, there were 4.28 billion unique mobile internet users, meaning that over 90% of the worldwide internet population utilized a mobile device to access the internet. It is the standard for every phone and therefore the most popular method of connectivity, and it's what you'll find on your smartphone and many IoT devices. Instead of connecting to a local network that has been created by a router or some other device, you communicate with the Internet directly. This is possible because of antennas and other hardware within the device that allows sending and receiving signals from cellular towers.

Because cellular network providers incur costs related to the whole cellular infrastructure, you have to pay according to the data you have used within a given month. This means that transferring a lot of data using cellular technology may be costly.

Cellular data also allows having connectivity as you move. As long as there is coverage - you can travel everywhere and still have access to the Internet, which is great!

The difference between Wi-Fi and Cellular Data

While most IoT devices can have multiple ways to connect to the Internet, there are two main ways - Wi-Fi or cellular data. The difference is how these connections are made. Wi-Fi connections are made by tapping into a network that already has an established connection. This means you need to be located near a router in order to get an internet connection. Cellular data, on the other hand, is accessed through the nearest cellular tower. It will provide access wherever you are. Wi-Fi will connect instantly when you come into the range of a wireless router, whereas cellular data may take up to three seconds for that same connection before it's available again after switching networks.

All in all, Wi-Fi acts as a local hub that allows you to connect many devices to a single network. The source of connection for that network can be a cellular network or ethernet cable, whereas a cellular connection acts as a direct connection method on devices without any additional hardware such as a router.