Hardline

nounShop talkTelecom & IT

A physical, wired communications connection rather than a wireless one.

A direct physical cable connection, usually copper or fiber optic, providing a dedicated communications path. Technicians use this term to distinguish a permanent, highly reliable wired link from cellular, microwave, or Wi-Fi connections that might be subject to atmospheric interference or jamming.

Heard on the job

We can't rely on the wireless bridge for the main broadcast feed, so pull a hardline out to the mobile studio.

Also heard as

  • landline