The real value of a powerline kit, as it relates to signal, is realized when the normal distribution of a wireless signal is impeded. Powerline kits create a more secure, reliable signal, which is reason enough for many business and home users to consider them. Where dead spots exist in wireless service, powerline kits are a choice that makes very good sense, and indeed, might be the only way to go. In dorms, apartments, or rentals where wireless systems are ineffective, drilling holes and adding wiring to create a wired network simply is not an option, to say nothing of the expense that would be involved. Choosing a powerline kit that uses the existing wiring infrastructure to distribute the signal, with speed to keep all your devices humming along in real time, offering superior clarity, and delivering excellent affordability, will prove to be the right decision.

Powerline kits will never weaken signal strength, and in the settings described here, will allow you to get a signal when no wireless signal is capable of reaching your devices.

To set up a powerline networking kit, plug one adapter into a live electrical outlet near the incoming network feed or router. The other adapter will have one to four ports for Ethernet enabled devices. Plug this unit in where you want to run these devices. Using the Ethernet cables with USB connections, attach your devices and you are done. It you want to expand your network to other rooms, simply purchase more adapters, plug them in, connect your equipment, and get on with the business or pleasure at hand!

Typically in a kit, one of the adapters is designed to host your network router, and often features a 10/100 Ethernet port. The router can be wired or wireless, making powerline kits a great option for extending the range of a wireless network that does not reach the furthest rooms or offices of a building. The second adapter will have one to four ports, each capable of supplying high speed service to a separate device, such as a PC or laptop, an HDTV, MP3 player, network fax or printer, or gaming console. The advantages of a network system are many, including the ability to provide interference-free connections where electrical equipment is in use and a range offered that is greater than many wireless networks.

1. The Linksys PLK300 PowerLine AV Kit: This 2-adapter set delivers high speeds and terrific bandwidth so that even when multiple devices are tapping into the network performance will be outstanding. Maximum speeds of 100Mbps will be enjoyed, even while streaming HDTV, downloading graphic-intensive files, using a network printer or fax, or engaging in real-time online gaming. For families or business owners that need lots of capacity, this is an outstanding choice. The 4-port adapter allows 4 separate Ethernet enabled devices to function effectively without delay or slow-downs. It’s compatible with all Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. Read our full review of this product here!

2. Corinex AV200 Powerline Wireless Kit: This units boasts speeds of up to 200Mbps, making it right for streaming video or audio, gaming consoles, top of set boxes, VoIP, and any PC or laptop. Use with Wii, SlingBox, Xbox360, TiVO, and all your favorite Ethernet devices. Read our full review of this product here!

3. Netgear HDX101 Powerline Kit: Netgear is one of the most trusted names in networking, and this kit delivers reputation-building performance at speeds up to 200Mbps. It works as a powerline kit or will also work with an existing wireless network. Plug and Play usability will give coverage to up to 5000 square feet. Read our full review of this product here!

4. Belkin F5D4075 Powerline AV Kit: Plenty of speed at 200Mbps is coupled with 3 ports making it a great choice for a small office or a home recreation room or theater where multiple Ethernet enabled devices are in play. The 128-bit AES encryption offers better security than most wireless networks. Read our full review of this product here!

5. Trendnet TPL-302E 200MBPS Powerline Kit: When you want to network multiple PC’s or laptops, a fax and printer for business, or a several fun & games devices, you will appreciate the versatility and speed of this unit. Cruise at speeds up to 200Mbps with total Plug and Play convenience that is compatible with all your PC, game console, and streaming video or audio devices. Read our full review of this product here!

Range: The first goal of any network is to deliver accessibility where you want it. Wireless networks offer total access within their range, and as long as the signal is unhindered, they are tough to beat. The problem is that in today’s electronic world there are many ways in which a wireless signal is impeded. Building materials like concrete and steel prevent wireless signal penetration, and equipment pulling a lot of electricity, such as refrigeration units, creates interference. Powerline networks offer excellent clarity that will not be impeded by equipment in use, and have a very respectable range of over 300 yards, which is greater than many wireless networks will provide without installation of range extenders.

Security: Where security is an important issue, it’s important to note that powerline networking is more secure than wireless. Hacking or eavesdropping on a powerline network is much more difficult than penetrating even “security-enable” wireless networks.

Cost: The price for a basic set up for a wireless network is typically higher than for a single two-adapter powerline kit. If you choose a powerline network and want to add additional adapters, the cost will rise with each additional kit added to the network, which may eventually make the network more costly.

Speed: Both wireless and powerline networks offer very high speeds for data transfer. Where no interference is present, the performance of each type of system is excellent. Where interference from other signals or impediments exists for wireless, a powerline network will offer more consistent performance.