Desktop

Desktop computers are the most traditional form of computer. Large and stationary, they are generally the center of computer setups for tasks that involve a lot of memory and processing power, like data analysis, engineering, gaming, or video editing.

If a desktop computer is not up to a certain task, parts of it can be replaced or upgraded. These parts include:

• Random Access Memory (RAM/Memory)
• Central Processing Unit (CPU/Processor)
• Hard Drive
• Graphics card
• Monitor

However, upgrading components of a desktop can be expensive, especially if the computer is old and needs to run the most current software. Even without upgrading any physical parts, desktops can last several years if not used too intensely.

Laptop

Laptops are made for quick use and portability. While they can run the same applications as desktops, they are compact and mainly used for general tasks like research, creating documents, communication, or streaming video. Laptops that can run advanced software can be as expensive as their desktop counterparts.

Depending on how carefully it is handled, a new laptop can last several years. Unlike desktops, individual parts typically aren’t meant to be switched out, and their projected lifespan is tied to the next few software updates. General strategies for preserving laptops include protective casing, only charging the battery when necessary, and running older versions of software if possible.

Phone

Generally smartphones, internet-capable phones are used by businesses as personal assistants. They allow for instant talk, text, and visual communication, document collaboration, calendars, reminders, and more. Most of the applications used for these features are simple and easy to use even on older phone versions.

Like laptops, a new smartphone’s lifespan is tied to the next few software updates, and wasn’t meant to be taken apart. Fortunately, older software can still run simple applications for a long time without updating. Protective casings and only charging when necessary can also keep a phone in good condition.

Phone/ Mobile/ Cellular Data

Cellular data is available wherever is within range of a mobile network tower. This can be very convenient for jobs or lifestyles that involve a lot of travel. Originally for phones, other portably-styled computers like laptops and tablets can also be built to connect to mobile data. There are also hotspot routers that can translate mobile data into wi-fi for at-home use.

Two main limitations of cellular data are expense and quality.

• Data is typically sold by providers as a monthly allotment. However, intense data usage like streaming or gaming, or even some basic tasks performed on a computer can quickly use up that allotment, and overages can be charged at higher rates.
• Unlimited data plans can be either expensive to start or carry rules that curate service to lower quality.
• Practically, mobile towers can serve hundreds or thousands of users at a time, but increased activity can slow down the speed or quality that data is distributed.
• Even though cellular data is portable, specific areas like hilly or urban landscapes, or metal buildings can disrupt the signal and weaken connection.

Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) Router

A Wi-Fi router takes data provided by internet service providers (ISPs) and wirelessly connects to personal or business devices. This makes for faster, stronger connections that are generally don’t have overages. Data usage is only shared by the number of devices connected, so quality or data-intensive tasks can be reliably performed at any time.

General limitations using Wi-Fi:

• Wi-Fi has a limited range, especially if there are walls or floors between the device and the router. Like with cell data, this can disrupt the signal and weaken connection, lowering speeds or quality.
• There are different types of routers meant to handle different styles of connection. Routers that have a long lifespan, can handle a multitude of devices, or are highly rated can be very expensive.
• Like with cell towers, data speed and quality provided by ISPs can be affected by mass use of their service, especially during peak hours like the end of the workday.

Typical options for ISPs:

• Cable Internet
  • The most widely used form, ISPs provide devices (called modems) that translate internet through cables meant for TV. Most homes already have at least one cable, and ISPs can offer a wide variety of plans for customers’ basic to professional needs.
• Fiberoptic Internet
  • Fiber is a more modern cable fit for industrial standards. It can carry large amounts of data more quickly and reliably than regular cable. While it has become affordable, fiber plans are generally still expensive, require installation, and are not widely available.
• Wireless Internet
  • Wireless internet providers use hotspot modems to turn mobile data into Wi-Fi. Data plans can be more affordable while reliably reaching basic cable quality, but the same limitations apply as with cellular data.
• Satellite Internet
  • Popular for rural areas, satellite-enabled internet is widely available but is generally slower and more expensive than the other options.

Ethernet Cord

Ethernet cords physically connect computers to the ISP’s modem. This generally provides faster and more consistent quality than Wi-Fi because it cuts out the extra processes involved in wireless connection. They are popular for gaming, and commonly used in digital workspaces and telecommunication offices.

Ethernet cords can come with modems provided by ISPs, but are also sold in various forms for different levels of quality. A high quality ethernet cord won’t increase data quality beyond what was purchased from the ISP, but can get it as close as possible. Ethernet can be installed into home walls, and some apartments already have this option available.