You'll probably have noticed that getting a good wireless G signal is becoming harder all the time, because people don't have to know what they're doing in order to buy wireless kit. You'll get silly high-speed modes on G adapters that cause more harm that good, bizarre channel choices, no awareness of other networks in the area - the list goes on. I've given up trying to get a solid signal around here now, sitting in the footprint of nine other G routers, so decided to try Powerline kit.

I went for a Western Digital Livewire kit with two 4-port adapters for just over £70. The setup is a bit vague because you can only change the settings on the remote adapter and not the directly connected one (I think that's a glitch) but once they're set up they rock. They use the 200mbps Homeplug AV standard, and I'm getting around 170mbps across two floors - significantly higher than in the reviews I've read. The wiring isn't too modern here and doesn't use RCDs so I reckon that helps - I even have the downstairs one plugged into a power strip, which is considered a major no-no in the instructions, so I see no reason why I couldn't get close to the theoretical maximum. Security isn't too bad either, with switchable private network names and pushbutton 128bit encryption.

So yup, a successful experiment. Looks like the tech is finally sorting itself out

I've migrated to an earlier devolo version running @ 80 meg because I was unhappy with wireless operation. Again, being inside several other wireless footprints and no doubt in range of loads of baby intercoms, mobile phone repeaters and local taxi base stations. Also, main consumer unit is fused rather than RCD.

Liberalisation of the airwaves started by the Radio Communications Agency and continued by its successor OFCOM has been a absolute nightmare round here in North-West London.

Nick

Edited 7 November, 201015 yr by Clunkclick

I've got a pair of cheapie adaptors I got from Ebuyer, and I'm getting a solid 130Mb from the downstairs phone point up to my office. It saved me a lot of fiddling with cables!

Phil