Re: Wireless Access for Desk Tops

Performance: Not nearly as fast as Gb (though faster than the average WiFi
& 100Mb wired connection).

Security: The adapters will have a security mode where all data transmitted
over the powerline is encrypted between adapters but it is usually
optional. Also, some folks are concerned about data leakage outside the
home/office. With the encryption that's not really a concern, and range is
limited anyway (like any wired tech there are losses over distance).

Cost: Each adapter normally costs $40+. There are some (more expensive)
adapters that also bridge to WiFi or include a wired switch to support
multiple devices in the destination area so that's somewhat mitigated.
While in-wall Ethernet cable will last virtually forever, powerline
adapters may need replacement if they fail (I've yet to experience that)
and they will draw some small amount of power so their operating costs are
greater than wired Ethernet.

Not managed: This is predominantly viewed as SOHO equipment; management
capabilities are virtually nil.

Topology: Probably the biggie. In a home or small office where it's just a
few thousand square feet and one power panel it's not generally an issue
but a larger and/or more complex environment may prohibit powerline
adapters from seeing each other. Also, if you have power
filtering/conditioning/UPS in place the powerline adapters have to be
between those & the wall as surge suppressors will see the ethernet traffic
as noise & filter it out.

It's a good niche solution, especially when it comes to refitting an
existing space & getting through walls/floors that block WiFi signals. But
issues like those above make it tough to recommend as a default deployment
option. Running Ethernet when a facility is being built adds little cost
by comparison.


On Mon, Jun 10, 2013 at 7:50 AM, aec <cfuture@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

What are the gotchas with power line adapters?

I'm assuming there are some, because otherwise it seems like they would
be replacing dedicated hardwired Ethernet everywhere.

alan



On 6/4/13 9:49 PM, David Gibbs wrote:

On 6/4/2013 3:46 PM, John Jones wrote:

Another alternative to WiFi would be Powerline networking which runs
Ethernet over the building's power line. Speeds are 200Mbps and up
and you can do a combination of wired & wireless clients as needed.

FWIW: I have some powerline adapter that I'm no longer using ... if

anyone is interested, contact me privately.

david

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