Many home users face the problem of connecting all their devices to the same network when they want to exchange files with each other and to connect to a shared broadband line.
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Wi-Fi appears to be the obvious choice because of its convenience and fuss-free set-up. However, the problem with Wi-Fi is that it is susceptible to interference and physical obstructions.
So, what options do you have if your home network suffers from signal blind spots and slow performance?
Some users may stick to the tried and tested way of using a cable or spend additional money on Wi-Fi repeaters, signal boosters or extenders.
Powerline networking is another quick and easy option. You do not need to run any additional wires because it makes use of the wiring you already have for your home appliances.
Personally, I use all three options to link up my home. Wireless is easiest for my gaming consoles and is the most convenient for printing from anywhere in the house.
I have a single powerline set-up for a room that suffers from weak signals and is almost undetectable on the wireless network.
Finally, I use wires between my systems to ensure the fastest and most secure connection.
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Wireless
Advantages
- Convenient and cost-saving as no hacking or messy cables required.
- Simple to share access with guests at your home.
Disadvantages
- Poses a security risk as hackers can tap your wireless network.
- Can face interference from physical objects, especially reinforced concrete walls which have metal bars within.
- Latency (the time it takes for a packet of data to get from one point to another) is high, so it is not good for real-time applications like online gaming and video-chatting.
- The Cisco-Linksys E3000 is one of the latest dual-band powerhouses said to be able to reach the ‘blindest’ of spots.
Wired
Advantages
- Secure as there is no wireless network for hackers to tap.
- Least susceptible to interference as it uses physical wires.
- Lowest latency so great for online games and video-chatting.
Disadvantages
- Having cables snaking all over the house may look untidy.
- May get messy and expensive if you want to conceal the cables as wall-hacking is often required.
Wired connections are a great option if you are renovating your home or moving into a new one as you can plan for the wires to be concealed. The biggest task is deciding where to have the cables converge for the distribution point.
Most offerings from Internet service providers will include a gateway router modem with two or more ports. If you need more ports, a multi-port high-speed switch is needed.
Powerline
Advantages
- Requires no hacking.
- Current connection speeds are fast – up to 1Gbps.
- No additional power supply needed as it is plugged into the mains socket
Disadvantages
- Can be sensitive to signal interferences in the power cables, resulting in lower transfer speeds.
- Can be costly if you need a lot of connections.
Powerline networking is an interesting option if you view it as a hybrid offering.
Local brand Aztech is offering a wired plus wireless solution with their HomePlug HL110EW device. It offers 200Mbps throughput and includes two wired 100Mbps Ethernet ports. It also works as a Wireless-N extender.
By using powerline to reach a weak signal area, you can effectively strengthen the home network.
The HomePlug works in pairs: One is plugged into a power socket near your existing router and cabled to it, while the second adapter can be plugged anywhere else in the house.
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