Powerline Ethernet Adapter

I recently had a dilemma with my wireless network at home. Playing miltiplayer games over wifi led to sessions being dropped forcing us to use smaller maps (not as fun). I looked into a variety of solutions including upgrading to Wireless-N and laying down Ethernet Cable, both solutions didn't seem very viable living in an apartment (signal interference from other wireless routers and not being able to run Ethernet cabling in the walls). I thought for sure I was just stuck with what I had, then I came across something called a Powerline Ethernet Adapter. To put it simply, these adapters utilize preexisting powerlines that run throughout your home to be used as an extension of your LAN. Here is a simple diagram to explain.

Powerline Adapter Diagram

Although these adapters work right out of the box and utilize a default password, you should change the password to prevent being eavesdropped on by using the software provided by the manufacturer.

The adapters that I purchased run on the HomePlug AV standard are reported to reach up to 200Mbps. I, however, have yet to reach that speed due to interference with other electrical devices (my top speed has been 110Mbps). The new standard under development will approach Gigabit speeds, devices should be available next year.

About Aaron

Computer Instructor for J. Ryan Solutions, a company which manages computer labs in housing developments throughout the city of Boston, Cambridge, and in the Washington, DC area.