T&M LiFi vs Ethernet: Difference between Li-Fi and Ethernet
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This article explores the key similarities and differences between two technologies : Lifi and Ethernet. We’ll delve into their features, speeds, and typical applications to help you understand which is best suited for different tasks.
Introduction
In the world of networking, LiFi (Light Fidelity) and Ethernet represent two distinct technologies for data transmission. LiFi is a wireless communication technology that uses visible light to transfer data at high speeds, whereas Ethernet is a wired networking standard that relies on cables for stable and reliable connectivity. Both technologies offer unique advantages and serve different purposes, with LiFi enabling wireless flexibility and Ethernet providing consistent, high speed performance. Understanding their differences is essential for selecting the best networking solution based on speed, security, mobility and application requirements.
Li-Fi
The term Lifi is the short form of Light fidelity. It is wireless system which uses visible light, infrared or ultraviolet to transmit the data instead of radio frequency waves. It is composed of LED where data is trasmitted by modulating light intensity at speeds not detectable by human eye. Li-Fi offers ultra-fast, secure and interference free communication.
Features of LiFi
Following are some of the features of LiFi:
- It offers higher data transfer speed (Up to 100 Gbps).
- It does not rely on RF signals for communication reducing electromagnetic interference.
- As light used in LiFi does not pass through walls, it is considered to be more secure.
- It is ideal for airplanes, hospitals and military applications due to its non-interference with other wireless signals.
- LEDs used provide illumination along with data transmission which reduces power consumption.
- As light sources are lozalized and used in line of sight, multiple such lifi networks can be installed in close proximity. This improves connectivity in crowded areas.
- It offers two way high speed communication.
- LiFi uses various modulation techniques such as OOK, PPM, OFDM etc.
- The specifications of LiFi system are documented in IEEE 802.11bb and 802.15.7 standards. 802.11bb defines lifi operation and integration with wifi. IEEE 802.15.7 defines PHY and MAC layers for VLC (Visible Light Communication).
Ethernet
It is widely used wired networking technology which enables devices to communicate within LAN, MAN and WAN. It follows IEEE 802.3 standard. It uses cables such as twisted pair, fiber optic or coaxial. It provides reliable and high speed data transmission. Ethernet is considered to be backbone of modern networking which offers low latency, high bandwidth and secure connectivity.
There are numerous ethernet standards evolved till now which include 10base-T, 100Base-T, 1000base-T, 10Gbase-T, 40Gbase-T, 100Gbase-T and 400Gbase-T. Ethernet networks based on these are referred as standard ethernet, fast ethernet, Gigabit ethernet and Terabit ethernet.
Features of Ethernet
Following are some of the features of Ethernet:
- Supports speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 400 Gbps
- Provides stable and interference free connection unlike wireless technologies
- Supports different configurations to cater various network needs
- Due to use of physical cables it is less vulnerable to hacking, eavesdropping and wireless interference
- Supports full duplex communication
- Supports multiple network topologies such as star, bus, ring, hybrid
Comparison between Lifi and Ethernet
| Feature | LiFi | Ethernet |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Uses visible light for data transmission | Uses wired connections (copper or fiber optic cables) |
| Data Transfer Speed | Up to 100 Gbps (in lab conditions) | Varies: 100 Mbps, 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, or higher |
| Medium of Transmission | LED light signals | Physical cables (Twisted Pair, Fiber Optic) |
| Interference | No RF interference, immune to electromagnetic disturbances | Can be affected by electromagnetic interference (especially copper cables) |
| Security | High (light cannot penetrate walls, reducing hacking risk) | High (wired connection reduces unauthorized access) |
| Mobility | High mobility (wireless, works within the coverage area of light) | Low mobility (devices must be connected via cable) |
| Latency | Low (depends on implementation) | Very low (wired networks have minimal latency) |
| Installation Complexity | Easier to deploy in open spaces, but requires LiFi-enabled infrastructure | Requires cabling, making installation complex |
| Power Consumption | Higher (depends on LED power and data transmission load) | Lower for fiber optics, moderate for copper cables |
| Suitability | Ideal for secure, high-speed wireless communication | Best for stable, high-speed, and reliable wired connections |
Conclusion
While both LiFi and Ethernet enable high speed data transmission, they are designed for different use cases. Ethernet is the preferred choice for stable, wired connectivity, making it ideal for data centers, offices and home networks where reliability is key. LiFi, on the other hand, offers secure and high speed wireless communication, especially in environments where radio frequency interference is a concern. As technology advances, LiFi may complement Ethernet in hybrid networking environments, combining the flexibility of wireless communication with the reliability of wired connections.
