Windows 7: Are wireless connections slower than wired?

I use wireless connections on my laptop but my friend said wired internet are faster. Is it right or should I just stick with wireless?

your internet speed would be the same whether you're wired or wireless, as the router is still connecting at the one speed.

if you were transferring files between machines on your network (if you have one), then wired will be quite a bit faster.

Wireless signal can get weakened by EM interference from other devices operating at the same frequency, such as phones. Also, the location of the access point and the router capabilities are very important. I've used routers where the signal travelled beautifully all over, but I've also had some could barely transmit outside the room they were located in.

But wireless is very convenient, you can move around, let multiple users connect etc.

Stick to wireless but take a few precautions:

1) Use WPA security and apply a strong, non-dictionary password. Dont even think of using WEP.

2) It is generally advised to place the router somewhat high up from the ground level.

3) Get the best router you can within your budget, it makes a lot of difference.

The facts are that the further you are from the wireless router the slower your connnection will be. This means that downloads will be slower in general with a wireless connection depending on your distance from the router. Even if you are close to the router the wireless connection will most likely be slower because of wireless encryption and half duplex. Wired connections are faster no doubt.