AAs we know that in today’s competitive digital age, the router is an integral part of technology which is playing a vital role in your network. On the other hand it will be considered as the backbone of every network. It is the bridging gap between different devices and the internet. If you’re worried about the difference between Ethernet and Internet on a router, you don’t need to be confused because we look at them together. Ethernet is a port present in all network devices, such as routers. So the Internet is a feature that you can get in the router configuration that can be used for connectivity between the user and the wireless router.
Contents
- 1 What is the Internet on a Router?
- 2 Real-Life Example of Internet Port
- 3 What is Ethernet on a Router?
- 4 Connector Type of Ethernet Port
- 5 Real-Life Example of Ethernet Port
- 6 Main Difference Between Internet and Ethernet on Router
- 7 Why Wired Vs Wireless Ethernet Matters?
- 8 When to Use Each Port?
- 9 Final Words
What is the Internet on a Router?
An Internet port, often referred to as a WAN (Wide Area Network) port, is one of many ports on wireless routers. The purpose of the VanPort is to connect the router to your Internet source. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) may offer a modem, fiber optic terminal, or other gateway equipment.
Something like this.
Important Features of Internet Port
There are several reasons for an internet port on a router but below are some of them you should read before setting up your network.
Purpose of Internet Port
The Internet port plays an important role in a wireless router as it connects multiple devices to the Internet with its help.
Connector Type of Internet Port
It is common to every wireless router, it uses an RJ-45 Ethernet connector.
Configuration of Internet Port
This is quite simple as the router assigns an IP address to this port to facilitate communication with the ISP.
Speed Variants of Internet Port
The Internet port can support 100 Mbps, 1 Gbps, or even 10 Gbps rates on more recent routers, depending on the type and ISP plan you have.
Real-Life Example of Internet Port
To distribute this connection to your devices, when you purchase a 500 Mbps fiber internet package you connect a cable from your modem to the internet port on your router.
What is Ethernet on a Router?
Ethernet cables are used to connect devices to LAN (local area network) ports, often referred to as “Ethernet” ports on a router. These ports are necessary to set up a wired network in your home or place of business.
Something like this.
Key Features of Ethernet Ports
Ethernet ports in network devices have many features but some of the most important part are given below which you must follow before setting up the network.
Purpose of Ethernet Port
Actually, local devices like PCs, printers, game consoles, and smart TVs are connected to the router via the Ethernet connector.
Connector Type of Ethernet Port
As we mentioned in the section above, just like Internet ports, Ethernet ports also use RJ-45 connectors.
Number of Ports
Most modern routers come with 2 to 8 Ethernet ports depending on your router model.
Real-Life Example of Ethernet Port
If you want the fastest and most stable connection for gaming or video editing, you’d use an Ethernet port to plug your gaming console or computer directly into the router because it provides end to end speed as compared to connecting through wireless to the router.
Main Difference Between Internet and Ethernet on Router
If you are still confused about the difference between an Internet port and an Ethernet port, then you need not worry, as we will discuss it in depth in the given table.
| Feature | Internet Port (WAN) | Ethernet Ports (LAN) |
| Purpose | Connects the router to the internet | Connects local devices to the router |
| Function | Handles communication with the ISP | Distributes the internet to connected devices |
| IP Addressing | Receives a public IP from the ISP | Assigns private IPs to connected devices |
| Number of Ports | Typically 1 | Usually 2-8 |
| Label/Color | Often labeled “WAN” and may be a different color | Labeled “LAN” and are uniform in color |
Why Wired Vs Wireless Ethernet Matters?
With the rise of Wi-Fi, there’s little difference between the two, you might wonder why Ethernet ports are still relevant.
Let’s see how they differ from each other.
Speed
As we know, wired Ethernet connections provide constant speed without interference from walls, distance, or other devices, so most people prefer to use Ethernet for their activities. If you are connected to the Internet via wireless, you may face some challenges.
Reliability
Ethernet connections are less prone to dropouts than Wi-Fi.
Security
A wired connection is more secure as it is more difficult to intercept than wireless signals, as it does not require a password to connect; you can plug the cable directly into your computer etc.
When to Use Each Port?
Each port has different features depending on your needs.
Internet Port (WAN)
You should ensure that your modem or Internet source is always connected to the WAN port. Your router won’t be able to connect to the Internet without it.
Ethernet Ports (LAN)
Ethernet ports are always used to connect end devices such as desktops, gaming consoles, or smart TVs for a reliable and high-speed connection without which a network setup is not possible.
Final Words
If you are interested in knowing the difference between Internet and Ethernet ports on a router, we have already explained in detail in the above section; you have read all the instructions related to it. When you set up your network for home or office, you need both of them; without them, you cannot build a network. Stay with us. We are providing amazing tips to network enthusiasts related to wireless routers.
