Wi-Fi 7 vs. Ethernet: Which is best?

Regarding Wi-Fi 7 vs. ethernet, both offer excellent options for businesses seeking reliable connectivity, though Wi-Fi 7 can be faster. With all the Wi-Fi 7 hype around speed increases and low latency, it’s tempting to dive in for flexible office setups. Ethernet, on the other hand, still holds strong with its stable and fast data transfer through wired connections. But which one is best?

This post will unpack:

• The major advantages in the debate of Wi-Fi 7 vs. ethernet
• When businesses should choose Wi-Fi 7 or stick with ethernet
• How hybridizing both options can lead to optimal network performance
• Frequently asked questions regarding Wi-Fi 7 vs. ethernet
• How Meter’s NaaS can optimize your network

Advantages of Wi-Fi 7 vs. ethernet

Wi-Fi 7 delivers the flexibility that ethernet can’t provide. It’s ideal for setups that need high speeds without the annoyance of cables.

Wi-Fi 7’s superpower is mobility—it’s wireless, so there’s no need to mess around with cables. In flexible or open workspaces, Wi-Fi 7 makes it easy to rearrange without worrying about where the wires are.

Its flexibility is a big plus, though Wi-Fi signals can still get shaky if they run into interference or walls. So, while Wi-Fi 7’s mobility is great, it might occasionally need a little help from its wired friend, ethernet, when stability is critical.

High device capacity

Wi-Fi 7 is built to handle a crowd—it can support tons of devices at once, which makes it great for busy offices, conference rooms, or any place packed with people and gadgets. The 6 GHz band helps ease network congestion, so there’s less elbowing for bandwidth.

Of course, if nearby networks start to interfere, performance might take a hit. So, while Wi-Fi 7’s crowd control is impressive, it still depends on what’s happening in the surrounding network “neighborhood.”

Speed potential

How fast is Wi-Fi 7? Wi-Fi 7 brings some serious speed, aiming for up to 46 Gbps with its fancy tech, like 16 spatial streams and 320 MHz channels. But before you ask, "Is Wi-Fi faster than ethernet?"—let’s remember that real-world speeds can be a bit of a letdown thanks to environmental factors.

Still, Wi-Fi 7 packs a punch and is a huge step up from older Wi-Fi versions, so it’s definitely fast enough for most office work. But when you’re wondering, “Is ethernet faster than Wi-Fi?” The answer is usually yes, especially in setups that need super steady, uninterrupted speeds. In short, Wi-Fi 7 is fast, but ethernet’s still got the edge for the most demanding tasks.

Cost-effective scaling

Expanding with Wi-Fi 7 is a breeze compared to running new ethernet cables all over the place—especially if you’ve got a big space. Just pop in some extra Wi-Fi access points, and you’re good to go (mostly). There is a catch, however. While wireless setups save on cables, there are a few hidden costs.

Interference management, security tweaks, and the occasional troubleshooting might pop up along the way. If you need to scale up fast without a cabling project, Wi-Fi 7 can definitely get the job done—just keep an eye on those extra “wireless” expenses.

Simpler installation

Setting up Wi-Fi 7 is pretty low-hassle compared to ethernet—you don’t have to deal with a mess of cables snaking through walls. In spaces where rewiring isn’t an option (or just sounds like a nightmare), Wi-Fi 7 gets you high-speed connectivity without the drama.

It’s perfect for:

• Temporary setups
• Pop-up offices
• Places where cabling is a no-go

Just plug in, power up, and you’re good to go—no wall drilling required.

Advantages of ethernet vs. Wi-Fi 7

Ethernet offers stability and security that Wi-Fi 7 can’t match. For users wondering, “Is ethernet better than Wi-Fi?” The answer often depends on your performance needs. If reliable, high-speed connections are essential, ethernet remains the best choice.

Stability and consistency

When it comes to stability and speed, ethernet has long been the go-to choice. But is ethernet faster than Wi-Fi? In many cases, yes. While Wi-Fi 7 boasts impressive speeds, ethernet’s wired connection avoids the fluctuations that can slow down wireless, making it ideal for high-speed tasks that need steady performance.

Low latency

Eethernet is the low-latency champ, which is ideal for anything where timing matters. Gaming, VR, video calls—you name it, ethernet keeps response times fast and steady. Wi-Fi 7 has its own tricks to reduce delays, like Multi-Link Operation (MLO), but ethernet’s wired setup skips interference completely. For tasks that need quick response, ethernet is your best bet.

Higher security

Ethernet wins in security. Since it’s wired, someone would have to physically mess with the cable to get at your data. Wi-Fi, on the other hand, broadcasts signals that anyone nearby could try to intercept. Wi-Fi 7 has stronger encryption, but ethernet’s direct connection gives more control—perfect for places like banks or hospitals where data privacy isn’t optional.

Consistent performance in high-density areas

Ethernet is the steady workhorse in crowded spaces. While Wi-Fi networks—even fancy ones like Wi-Fi 7—can start to lag as more devices pile on, ethernet keeps its cool. No worries about congestion or interference here. In places packed with devices, ethernet stays fast and reliable, handling the load like a pro.

Greater durability and lifespan

Ethernet’s built to go the distance. Unlike wireless tech that seems to need an upgrade every other year, ethernet cables and gear just keep chugging along with only the occasional tweak. For businesses that want a setup they don’t have to think about replacing anytime soon, ethernet’s durability makes it a smart choice.

Minimal ongoing maintenance

Once ethernet’s in place, it’s pretty low-maintenance. You don’t have to worry about interference or sharing bandwidth, so there’s less troubleshooting and upkeep overall. In the long run, this can save money since managing wireless networks can rack up extra costs over time. 

Predictable scalability for high-performance needs

Scaling up with ethernet might cost a bit upfront, but it’s a pretty predictable upgrade path. With options like fiber or Cat8 cables, ethernet can be customized to handle whatever you throw at it—up to 400 Gbps for big data centers. No surprises or sudden slowdowns, just steady, reliable growth. That’s why it’s the go-to for organizations with serious data demands.

When should businesses choose Wi-Fi 7?

Businesses should choose Wi-Fi 7 if they need flexibility and want to stay ahead in wireless tech. It offers faster speeds and handles more devices, but real-world performance hasn’t been fully proven yet.

Right now, most companies won’t see big benefits since device compatibility is limited. Weigh whether an early upgrade is worth it, or if waiting to see how Wi-Fi 7 performs in action makes more sense.

What type of businesses benefit most from Wi-Fi 7?

Businesses that need flexibility, like co-working spaces or tech startups, will get the most out of Wi-Fi 7. It’s great for setups where you need connections without dealing with cables. If your workspace changes a lot, Wi-Fi 7 gives you the freedom that wired setups can’t offer.

When should businesses stick with ethernet?

Businesses should stick with ethernet when they need solid reliability and strong security. Wi-Fi 7 is flexible, but ethernet is better for places that can’t risk shaky connections or data issues.

What type of businesses benefit most from ethernet?

Businesses that need ironclad connections, like banks, hospitals, and data centers, benefit most from ethernet. If your work can’t afford dropped signals or security risks, ethernet is the way to go.

Combine Wi-Fi 7 and ethernet for optimal network performance

Combining Wi-Fi 7 and ethernet can give businesses the best of both worlds: flexibility with Wi-Fi 7 and rock-solid reliability with ethernet. While Wi-Fi 7 is promising, it’s still untested, and device compatibility is limited. Ethernet, on the other hand, has proven stable for critical tasks and high-demand areas.

Balancing Wi-Fi 7 and ethernet

Wi-Fi 7 is a great choice for flexible spaces. In open areas, common spaces, and collaborative workstations, it offers easy connection and high device capacity without the need for cabling.

Ethernet, however, is the go-to for essential tasks. Fixed devices and areas that demand consistent performance—such as conference rooms, IT departments, and dedicated workstations—benefit from ethernet’s stable, low-latency connection.

A hybrid setup works well in a variety of industries.

Corporate offices:

• Wi-Fi 7 in common spaces and meeting rooms for mobile devices
• Ethernet at workstations needing steady performance

Retail environments:

• Wi-Fi 7 for sales floors and POS devices
• Ethernet for inventory management and payments

Manufacturing:

• IoT and wireless devices on Wi-Fi 7
• Ethernet handles critical production systems

Healthcare:

• Mobile patient monitors use Wi-Fi 7
• Ethernet backs secure data storage and medical records

Educational campuses:

• Wi-Fi 7 for student areas like lecture halls
• Ethernet for data centers and labs

Hospitality:

• Wi-Fi 7 in guest areas, lobbies, and conference rooms for high-speed access
• Ethernet for back-office operations and secure hotel management systems

Financial services:

• Wi-Fi 7 in general office areas and conference rooms
• Ethernet on trading floors and secure back-end operations for data handling

Government facilities:

• Wi-Fi 7 in public areas and visitor centers
• Ethernet for secure departments and critical infrastructure systems

Event venues and convention centers:

• Wi-Fi 7 in exhibit halls and public areas for high device density
• Ethernet for ticketing systems, vendor booths, and back-office operations

Best practices for a hybrid Wi-Fi 7 and ethernet setup

Setting up a hybrid Wi-Fi 7 and ethernet network? Follow these best practices to get the most flexibility and reliability out of both connections.

Keep an eye on things with network monitoring and management

In a hybrid setup, a good network monitoring tool is like having eyes on both Wi-Fi 7 and ethernet. Monitoring helps you catch small issues before they turn into big problems. Check for Wi-Fi 7 interference now and then, and adjust access points as needed—small tweaks in busy areas can keep speeds steady and performance strong.

Put the important stuff first with Quality of Service (QoS) settings

QoS settings help you prioritize the essentials, like video calls and big data tasks, while less urgent things wait. Even during busy times, QoS keeps things steady by making sure critical traffic gets what it needs. Use QoS in high-traffic areas to balance Wi-Fi and ethernet, so everyone gets a strong connection, and the important tasks stay front and center.

Lock down your network with extra security layers

Wi-Fi 7’s new encryption is a good start, but a few extra layers of security never hurt. Strong passwords, regular updates, and access controls will help keep unwanted devices off your network.

Don’t forget about ethernet—it needs protection too, especially if ports are out in the open. Managed switches with access control can help secure those ports, and network access controls for both Wi-Fi and ethernet keep any rogue devices from causing trouble.

Balance your bandwidth to keep things moving

Load balancing is your best friend, especially in busy areas. Spread out traffic across Wi-Fi 7 access points, and keep an eye on bandwidth to avoid overloads, even when everyone’s online at once. Check bandwidth needs for both networks and adjusting during peak times helps keep speeds steady and prevents congestion.

Teach your team when to plug in and when to go wireless

Sometimes, a bit of user know-how goes a long way. Make sure your team knows when to stick with Wi-Fi 7 and when it’s better to plug into ethernet. For tasks that need a steady, reliable connection, encourage folks to use ethernet, leaving Wi-Fi 7 open for lighter tasks. Clear guidelines keep the network running strong and help everyone enjoy a better connection.

Future-proof your setup with hardware that’s ready to grow

Choosing scalable hardware now saves you problems later. Go for modular access points or ethernet switches that can handle upgrades, so you’re not tearing out cables as your network grows. In busy areas like meeting rooms, plan for easy ethernet expansion to handle more traffic without big changes.

These steps keep your Wi-Fi 7 and ethernet network flexible and reliable. Set things up right from the start to keep everyone connected without extra complications.

FAQ: Wi-Fi 7 vs. ethernet

How limited is Wi-Fi 7 device compatibility?

Wi-Fi 7 device compatibility is pretty limited right now. Only a handful of high-end devices, like the Xiaomi 13 Pro, all iPhone 16 models, and a few select laptops, support it. Most consumer and business devices are still on Wi-Fi 6, and many manufacturers are holding off on updates until the Wi-Fi 7 standard is finalized, likely in late 2024 or early 2025.

Even if you install Wi-Fi 7 access points now, most devices won’t be able to use its features yet. Investing in Wi-Fi 7 now might mean paying for capabilities that most of your devices can’t take advantage of—making it practical to wait for wider compatibility.

How does Wi-Fi 7 help with future-proofing a network?

Wi-Fi 7 helps future-proof a network by offering multi-gigabit speeds, perfect for data-heavy tools like AR and VR. For businesses planning to grow with new tech, Wi-Fi 7 can handle the extra data that comes with these applications. Just remember, most current devices don’t support Wi-Fi 7 yet, so the full benefits may take a bit to show up.

Can Wi-Fi 7 reduce infrastructure costs?

Yes, Wi-Fi 7 can help cut infrastructure costs, especially in large, multi-story buildings. Running ethernet cables everywhere can get expensive, particularly with expansions or retrofits.

Wi-Fi 7 access points let you skip those extra costs while still delivering fast, reliable wireless connections. It makes it a budget-friendly choice for many businesses. Just keep in mind that many devices don’t support Wi-Fi 7 yet, so some of the benefits may take a while to fully kick in.

Why is ethernet better for industries with critical applications?

Ethernet's stability and reliability make it the better choice for industries with critical needs. Unlike wireless, it doesn’t suffer from interference or signal drops. ethernet is the go-to for businesses that rely on constant, uninterrupted connections.

How does ethernet offer better security for organizations?

Ethernet offers stronger security because it requires a physical connection. As such, it makes outside access much harder. Ethernet provides businesses greater control and protection for sensitive data. This is in contrast to Wi-Fi, which is more open to interference and hacking.

What kind of performance requirements call for ethernet over Wi-Fi 7?

Ethernet is the better choice for businesses that need steady, high-speed data flow. It delivers consistent, high speeds with less fluctuation. These things make it ideal for heavy-duty tasks that need top performance around the clock.

Does Wi-Fi 7 replace the need for ethernet connections?

No, Wi-Fi 7 doesn’t replace the need for ethernet connections. While Wi-Fi 7 brings faster speeds and more device support, ethernet is still the go-to for stable, high-performance connections. For tasks that need steady, reliable speed—like data centers, media production, or anything critical—ethernet holds its ground.

Optimize your network with Meter’s solutions

When considering Wi-Fi 7 vs. ethernet, Meter simplifies the decision by offering a fully managed Network as a Service (NaaS) that integrates both wired and wireless options, accommodating the needs of businesses of all sizes.

While Meter currently supports Wi-Fi 6, we plan to introduce Wi-Fi 7 access points in Spring 2025, depending on market availability and compatibility. Our NaaS solution allows for automatic network upgrades without complex installations or significant upfront investments.

Meter's services relieve IT teams from the operational burden of managing network performance. With network monitoring, upgrades, and troubleshooting handled by Meter, internal IT staff can focus on higher-priority projects and strategic initiatives.

Key features of Meter’s NaaS:

• Scalability: Meter’s network design solutions adapt to the needs of growing businesses, allowing for effortless expansion across users, devices, or locations.
• Proactive network monitoring: Meter continuously monitors network health to detect and address potential issues before they impact operations.
• Comprehensive support: From initial installation to ongoing maintenance, Meter manages every aspect of the network, reducing the demand on internal IT teams.
• Automatic hardware upgrades: As technology evolves, Meter provides clients with hardware upgrades, such as switches and access points, including transitions from Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 7, without additional costs or disruptions.
• Predictable monthly costs: With Meter’s NaaS model, businesses avoid high upfront hardware expenses, turning network management into a manageable monthly fee.
• Integrated security: Meter incorporates advanced DNS security protocols across both wired and wireless networks, helping protect sensitive business data.

Intrigued? Find out how good our solutions are first-hand by scheduling a demo.