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Difference between Guided and Unguided Media

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Prerequisite – Types of Transmission Media 

Guided Media: 

In this type of media, signal energy is enclosed and guided within a solid medium. The guided media is used either for point-to-point links or a shared link with various connections. In guided media, interference is generated by emissions in the adjacent cables. Proper shielding of guided media is required to reduce the interference issue. 

Unguided Media: 

In the unguided media, the signal energy propagates through a wireless medium. Wireless media is used for radio broadcasting in all directions. Microwave links are chosen for long-distance broadcasting transmission unguided media. Interference is also a problem in unguided media, overlapping frequency bands from competing signals can alter or eliminate a signal. Let’s see the difference between the Guided Media and Unguided Media:

S.

No. 

Guided Media Unguided Media
1.  The guided media is also called wired communication or bounded transmission media.  The unguided media is also called wireless communication or unbounded transmission media.
2. The signal energy propagates through wires in guided media. The signal energy propagates through the air in unguided media.
3. Guided media is used for point-to-point communication. Unguided media is generally suited for radio broadcasting in all directions.
4. It is cost-effective. It is expensive.
5. Discrete network topologies are formed by the guided media. Continuous network topologies are formed by the unguided media.
6. Signals are in the form of voltage, current, or photons in the guided media. Signals are in the form of electromagnetic waves in unguided media.
7. Examples of guided media are twisted pair wires, coaxial cables, and optical fiber cables. Examples of unguided media are microwave or radio links and infrared light.
8. By adding more wires, the transmission capacity can be increased in guided media. It is not possible to obtain additional capacity in unguided media.
9.  It sends out a signal that indicates which way to go.  It does not indicate which way to travel.
10. For a shorter distance, this is the best option. For longer distances, this method is used.
11. It is unable to pass through walls. It can pass through walls.

Last Updated : 28 Jun, 2022
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