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Will Stapley, Personal Computer World, Friday 11 January 2008 at 00:00:00

High-speed mains networking with hassle-free security

If your wireless network is a little too flaky and you don't fancy trailing Ethernet cables around your house, powerline networking is a good alternative. Using your existing mains wiring it provides fast, hassle-free networking. In order to network a device using powerline you'll need two powerline adapters (these plug directly into a three-pin plug). One hooks up to the device to be networked, with the other connecting to your router. Solwise has a range of powerline kit and its NET-PL-200AV-Push aims to make securing your powerline network both quick and easy. Security isn't usually a problem with powerline networking since most houses have mains rings that are separate to neighbouring properties. However, if you live in a flat or share a house with other people, it's worth encrypting data between powerline devices. Almost all powerline devices come with encryption options, but you'll usually have to set this up using some rather counter-intuitive software; this can also be a problem if you're using a Mac or Linux PC for which there is no software. To encrypt data on Solwise's new kit you simply push the button on one and, within two minutes, push the button on the second device. The devices will then share a randomly generated 128-bit AES key. Based on the Homeplug AV specification, it provides up to 200Mbits/sec, though in reality you'll be lucky to get more than 30Mbits/sec. Panasonic's BL-PA100KT uses a similar push-button encryption method, but it won't communicate with other Homplug kit since it uses proprietary technology. Back in our powerline group test (PCW, October 2007), Solwise picked up the Editor's Choice with the NET-PL-200AV due to its price and performance. This new version performs just as well and, with extra features, a more attractive design and lower price, it comes highly recommended.

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