5 Reasons to Choose Powerline Networking

Powerline networking has often lived in the shadow of wireless networking, but its reputation in recent years has been on the rise. Based on the principle that home users want a network without wires strung all over the house, powerline networking uses the existing electrical wiring in your home to transmit data and create a network. By purchasing relatively inexpensive adapters, powerline networks convert electrical outlets into points capable of transmitting data. Essentially, plug your computer into an existing outlet, and you’re ready to surf the web.

Given the benefits of reliability, security, cost-effectiveness, performance, and for users who are creating a hybrid network (a combination of WiFi and powerline technologies), here are some reasons you might want to consider creating a powerline network in your own home.

Reliability
Powerline networks use the existing outlets in your home to create a network. This means there’s no competition for a wireless signal, and more consistent performance. A powerline network won’t be derailed by spotty signal reception, increased users, or other irritating reasons an internet connection can slow down. This is a huge advantage over WiFi, as anyone who’s ever been irritatingly dropped at random from a wireless signal knows. Newer powerline adapters are compatible with both Macs and PCs.

Security
Network security issues plague homeowners and small businesses struggling with configuring wireless adapters, wireless routers, wireless access points, well…you get the point. With powerline networks, the security components are very easy to configure and are typically included by the manufacturer in the initial start up kits. And the network is only accessible via your electrical system.

Cost Effectiveness
Powerline networking is probably the cheapest method of networking available, and users get a lot of bang for the buck. Sure, the devices have to stay plugged in, but most rooms in a house have several electrical outlets. A home networking powerline kit with speeds up to 85 Mbps and HDTV capability retails for around $89 at BestBuy. Top notch components are only $20-$40 higher than this, and all have the capability to connect computers, printers, televisions, gaming consoles, and other networked devices.

Performance
The early days of powerline networking were lackluster. Luckily, the increased technology has given a huge boost in performace to powerline adapters. PC Magazine recently reported that Netgear’s newly released powerline kit is capable of speeds up to 500 Mbps (that’s 500 megabytes of data per second), which is much faster then the majority of wireless networks. Not too shabby. Less expensive versions usually offer speeds up to 200 Mbps, which is still pretty impressive, especially when you consider this speed will be consistent throughout the home network.

Powerline Networking Can Enhance Your Existing Network
A new trend on the home networking front, hybrid networks combine the ease of wireless networks with the reliability and speed of powerline networks. Wireless networks sometimes suffer a downgrade in speed when too many users or applications are open, not to mention the effects of a spotty signal. By incorporating powerline elements with wireless networking components, the end result is a faster network with more stability than you’d get with WiFi alone.

This post was written by the guys at BroadbandCompare.com.au, an Australian broadband comparison website where you can find cheap broadband and read buying guides to help you choose the best plan.