Difference between Cellular and Wi-Fi Networks

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There are several types of computer and mobile networks to connect world’s digital devices to communicate and share data with each other. These communication technologies provide an efficient way of connecting devices for data sharing and internet access.

In this article, we will discuss the major differences between cellular and WiFi networks. The basic difference between the two is that a WiFi network uses micro and radio waves to provide high-speed data transfer among different computing devices, whereas a cellular network uses mobile towers to enable mobile device communication and provide internet access on the device. Other important differences between cellular and WiFi networks are listed in the table below.

What is a Cellular Network?

Cellular network refers to mobile networks used over a wide area and is used to access network. A mobile device is connected to its base station using an air-based interface, using physical and link layer protocol. Each base station is connected to Mobile Switching Center connecting mobiles to wide area networks, help to set up call and mobility network.

Cellular networks allow the user to access calling and internet services from almost anywhere through the cellular towers. However, for accessing cellular network services, a mobile device must have a cellular connection provided by the cellular service provider.

The main limitation of a cellular network is that it depends upon the network range availability. The theoretical limit of this range is upto 45 miles from the mobile tower, but in actual practice, it is less than 45 miles due to various obstacles like buildings, trees, etc.

What is a Wi-Fi Network?

Wi-Fi stands for Wireless Fidelity. It is used to create a wireless network of devices to access the internet. It follows IEEE 802.11 standards. Each Wi-Fi device is connecting to the WLAN network to access the internet and a wireless access point, AP.

WiFi networks use multiple bands of radio waves and microwaves to transmit data among the devices wirelessly. It is one of the fastest networks that provides high-speed wireless communication between different computing devices like smartphones, computers, laptops, etc.

In WiFi networks, Internet service is accessible only where a WiFi connection is present. A WiFi network has a limited range. If this range is exceeded, then the device loses access to the network.

Difference between Cellular and Wi-Fi Networks

The following table highlights the important differences between Cellular Networks and WiFi Networks −

Key	Cellular Networks	Wi-Fi Networks
Internet Access	Cellular networks are based on mobile phones/devices using cellular signals to connect to the internet.	Wi-Fi uses radiofrequency waves to provide high-speed internet access to connected devices.
Standard	Cellular networks are based on mobile phones and use networks spread over a wide area.	Wi-Fi is a wireless network technology following IEEE 802.11 standards.
Range	Cellular networks are dependent on network range availability.	Wi-Fi has a limited range.
Data Plans	Mobile phones have a plan up to which data can be consumed.	Wi-Fi has no such limits or plans up to which data can be consumed.
Speed	Mobile phone network access speed is generally slow as compared to WiFi.	Wi-Fi is quite faster as compared to a cellular network.
Technology	For cellular communication, mobile technology is used.	WiFi networks use Wi-Fi standards to broadcast and receive information.
Installation	Cellular networks are installed and managed by mobile service providers.	WiFi network is set up by yourself in home, by IT staff at work or by an ISP at commercial scale.
Router Connection	Cellular network does not require a connection to a router.	WiFi network requires a connection to a wireless router.
Security & Privacy	Cellular networks provide encrypted connection by default and thus offer safe connectivity.	WiFi networks require enabling encryption manually.

Conclusion

Both cellular and WiFi networks have their own advantages and limitations. The most important difference that you should note here is that a WiFi network covers only a local area, while a cellular network covers a wide area.