The Main Difference Between Ethernet and Internet | Allconnect

Is Ethernet the same as internet? No.Though you may hear these two terms used when referring to internet access, they are actually two very different concepts.The internet is a global network connecting billions of devices, while Ethernet technology is a way to connect devices within a local network, like in your home.

The easiest way to remember the difference is that the internet is worldwide, and Ethernet is local.Likewise, the internet connects to a wide area network (WAN), while the Ethernet connects to a local area network (LAN).What is Ethernet? Ethernet connects devices in a LAN.

A LAN is made up of two or more devices connected within a physical location.For example, if you work in an office, all the computers within the building are likely connected to a LAN.Within your home, your cellphone, tablet, computer and any other devices that connect to your modem and router using the same IP address are also considered a LAN.

A physical Ethernet cable connects the devices within the LAN and allows them to communicate.If you’ve ever installed your own internet service, your provider would have included an Ethernet cable with your equipment to connect your devices to the internet.  Ethernet cables are also used to speed up internet connections.Most internet users connect to the internet wirelessly through a Wi-Fi network, but you can also connect your device directly to your internet equipment with an Ethernet cable to get the fastest internet connection possible.

This is more common among heavy internet users, like gamers.What is internet?  The internet is a global network that connects devices and people worldwide.It’s also known as a WAN or a global area network (GAN).

“The internet is a global network of computers that works much like the postal system, only at sub-second speeds.Just as the postal service enables people to send one another envelopes containing messages, the internet enables computers to send one another small packets of digital data,” according to the BBC.Now that you recognize the difference between Ethernet and internet, let’s find out when to use one or the other, or both.

When should I use Ethernet? When you need the fastest download and upload speeds possible When you want to reduce latency, such as when playing real-time multiplayer games When you want a higher level of security When a Wi-Fi signal is not available When should I use internet? When you need more connectivity between more than one physical location When using Wi-Fi across locations is a must, such as sending data between tablets or laptops that are in different locations  When greater connectivity is more essential than speed and security By now, you might have noticed that there is some crossover in Ethernet and internet usage.This is probably why the terms are often confused.So, to dive a little deeper, it’s important to understand that you CAN use Ethernet and internet at the same time.

However, you can also use Ethernet WITHOUT internet, and vice versa.Let’s explore these scenarios below.  Using Ethernet without internet It is possible to have a connected system in which your devices can communicate with each other, but not with the broader internet.This setup might be useful in a situation where security is paramount, such as a small office where you want computers, printers and other accessories to transfer data between each other, but without using the internet.

Using Ethernet and internet at the same time Keeping with our office example, say we have a single office location that is using a LAN.Now, what if another office location opens across town, and both offices need to communicate with each other? This is where the WAN, i.e., the internet, comes into play.Using internet without Ethernet Can you connect to a WAN (internet) without first connecting to a LAN (Ethernet)? Sure.

If you are only using one device at your location, then technically, you do not have a LAN since a LAN consists of at least two devices.Another example of using internet without Ethernet is public Wi-Fi hotspots.For example, if you are connecting your cellphone or tablet to the Wi-Fi at your local coffee shop, then you are using the internet without Ethernet.  What to read next Read more Featured Ethernet cable speed categories explained Camryn Smith — 5 min read Featured What is Wi-Fi? Learn the basics of this service Camryn Smith — 5 min read Featured Step-by-step guide on how to set up a VPN Taylor Gadsden — 4 min read Latest Thursday, July 10, 2025 What’s the difference between Ethernet and internet? Camryn Smith — 3 min read Monday, July 7, 2025 Teachers share their picks for the best online teaching tools for educators Lisa Iscrupe — 2 min read Thursday, July 3, 2025 How to find Wi-Fi hotspots Robin Layton — 3 min read