Before Wi-Fi became ubiquitous, Ethernet was the preferred way to get your devices onto the internet. By running Ethernet cables in a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN), you could send data back and forth. It is still widely used because sending data along cables is usually faster, and always more reliable and secure than sending it as radio waves, as Wi-Fi does. If you want to  get the best from your internet connection , Ethernet is still a great way to do it, and it’s an obvious choice for any organization that prizes high speed, security, and reliability. Here’s everything you need to know about Ethernet. You may also want to dip into our guides on  How to Buy a Router ,  Best Wi-Fi Routers , and  Best Mesh Systems . Updated April 2026: I added more information about Ethernet, including advice on cables, plus a new section on Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) that includes a few recommended products.…