Guided media use physical channels to transmit signals, providing higher security and lower interference but with limited range. Unguided media rely on open airwaves and are susceptible to interference, offering greater mobility but reduced security.
What is Guided Media?
Guided media refers to communication channels that use physical pathways to transmit signals. These pathways include copper cables and optical fibers. Guided media offers advantages such as high security and reduced interference since the signal is confined within the physical medium.
However, guided media has limitations in terms of range, as the signal strength degrades over longer distances. This makes it suitable for local and short-distance communication.
What is Unguided Media?
Unguided media relies on open airwaves for signal transmission, making it wireless in nature. Common examples of unguided media include radio waves and microwaves used in wireless communication. Unguided media offers the advantage of greater mobility since there are no physical pathways to restrict movement.
However, it is more susceptible to interference from other devices and environmental factors. This makes unguided media suitable for scenarios where mobility is crucial, such as mobile phones and Wi-Fi networks.
Guided Media vs Unguided Media
The main difference between guided and unguided media are given below:
| Aspect | Guided Media | Unguided Media |
| Transmission Medium | Physical channels (e.g., cables, optical fibers) | Open airwaves (e.g., radio waves, microwaves) |
| Security and Interference | Higher security, lower interference | Lower security, higher susceptibility to interference |
| Range | Limited range, signal degrades over distance | Greater mobility, suitable for longer distances |
| Examples | Copper cables, optical fibers | Wireless communication (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular networks) |