Businesses rely on connectivity because every enterprise is interconnected through mobile devices, the Internet of Things (IoT), and more. As remote jobs continue to grow, businesses require robust, reliable, and secure networks.
While Wi-Fi has been the go-to solution for connecting devices, there’s a lesser-known alternative. Many companies are switching their networks to private long-term evolution (LTE).
Is switching to private LTE worth the effort? Any update of a company’s network for remote workers comes with a learning curve.
If you’re a business owner or an IT professional, understanding why private LTE is better than Wi-Fi for your enterprise can help you make informed decisions about your connectivity needs. Learn the essentials about private LTE today to keep your company’s operations secure and efficient.
Understanding the Basics of Private LTE vs. Wi-Fi
It’s impossible to make an educated decision between private LTE and Wi-Fi without understanding the details of each resource. Before diving into the specifics, here is some insight into how they function in professional settings.
Private LTE
Private LTE is a dedicated cellular network that relies on spectrum allocated to a specific business or organization. Unlike public LTE networks managed by telecom operators, private LTE networks are easily controlled by the enterprise itself to provide enhanced security, reliability, and performance.
Additionally, these private networks operate on licensed or shared spectrum. They offer a more controlled environment with fewer interference issues, so employees uphold consistent performances.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi, on the other hand, is a wireless networking technology that uses radio frequencies to supply internet access in a localized area. It’s widely used in homes, offices, and public spaces due to its ease of installation and cost-effectiveness.
In an enterprise setting, Wi-Fi operates on an unlicensed spectrum. Therefore, the network is more susceptible to interference from other devices.
This can cause network congestion and reduced performance.
Reliability and Coverage
When it comes to reliability and coverage, private LTE greatly outshines Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi networks struggle with dead zones and signal degradation, especially on large campuses or in industrial environments. Since Wi-Fi signals are weak over far distances, networks are less stable when faced against physical barriers such as walls and machinery.
Private LTE networks, however, are conveniently designed with wide-area coverage. The use of cellular technology offers inherently stronger connectivity over larger areas.
For instance, a manufacturing plant using private LTE ensures reliable connections for the entire facility. Even outdoor areas have access to the network, whereas Wi-Fi might fail. Private LTE is
particularly beneficial for businesses with sprawling campuses or multiple buildings for comprehensive coverage.
Security Features
Security is a top priority for businesses across all industries. Many Wi-Fi networks—especially those using older protocols—are vulnerable to security threats, including unauthorized access, data interception, and cyberattacks.
Private LTE networks, on the other hand, offer enhanced security features that make them less susceptible to breaches. Operating on a dedicated spectrum provides a higher level of control over who can access the network.
Additionally, private LTE uses advanced encryption and authentication protocols. Businesses can trust that sensitive data remains secure when using private LTE instead of Wi-Fi.
Network Performance
Network performance is another critical factor for enterprises. Wi-Fi networks are more likely to experience performance issues due to interference, congestion, and signal degradation.
This can result in slow data transfer speeds, dropped connections, and overall poor user experience.
Businesses need the robust technology and superior performance that private LTE supplies.
Enterprises will benefit from the network’s faster data transfer speeds, lower latency, and more reliable connections. After implementing this resource, businesses will increase their productivity and operational efficiency.
Cost and Scalability
Businesses are constantly budgeting, researching investments that will produce high yields, and searching for changes that can boost productivity. When it comes to evaluating network solutions, the initial setup costs for private LTE are higher than for Wi-Fi. Nonetheless, private LTE offers long-term savings that make it a cost-effective solution.
Costs will vary between each facility due to size and network differences. The excessive implementation of Wi-Fi on several properties becomes more expensive than necessary. Instead, it’s worth investing in a dedicated private network to run a business that requires top-level security.
There is also the potential for long-term savings with the addition of private LTE. Improved productivity, reduced downtime, and enhanced security often outweigh the initial investment.
For enterprises looking for a scalable solution, private LTE is flexible, so they can expand network coverage as they grow.
The network will meet future demands without significant overhauls or additional investments.
Looking Toward the Future
The landscape of enterprise connectivity is rapidly evolving, and private LTE is at the forefront of this transformation. Learning why private LTE is better than Wi-Fi for enterprises is crucial for your business to evolve alongside the industry.
As businesses continue to adopt digital technologies and IoT devices, the demand for reliable, secure, and high-performance networks increases. Private LTE equips enterprises with solutions to meet these demands.
Looking ahead, advancements in 5G technology will continue strengthening private LTE networks. Faster speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity will provide 5G-enabled private networks with even greater benefits.
Businesses that invest today are well-positioned to stay ahead of the competition.
Upgrade Your Enterprise Now
Private LTE offers numerous advantages over Wi-Fi.
From enhanced reliability and coverage to superior security and performance, private LTE provides a powerful, secure network that modern enterprises need.
Don’t let the high initial cost deter you from this investment. Although Wi-Fi seems initially appealing, private networks’ long-term scalability makes them cost-effective solutions to future-proof business operations.
If you’re ready to take your enterprise connectivity to the next level, consider exploring private LTE.
Connecta Mobile is a secure phone service that offers high security for enterprises that require convenient coverage and comprehensive privacy. Reach out to our team to establish a strong private network for your business.