The difference is that in actual mountain climbing, people are usually experienced and equipped to gauge the risk of a fall and operate well within their range

The difference is that in actual mountain climbing, people are usually experienced and equipped to gauge the risk of a fall and operate well within their range of capabilities. Via Ferrata is technically easy enough to attract less experienced people and steel ropes and ladders offer a false sense of security vs being the lead climber on an alpine climbing route with 60ft of run out above an anchor you built yourself.