When you need to connect multiple devices through network cables, and you want the flexibility to do so from anywhere in your home, we have a highly practical alternative to share. While Wi-Fi is a common way to connect devices to your home network, there are situations where using a wired connection is preferable. It offers enhanced stability, speed, and fewer connectivity issues. However, not every home is equipped with Ethernet ports throughout, and that’s where this alternative comes in handy.
For instance, you may want to connect devices like a television, computer, or even a mobile phone to your network via a cable if you’re experiencing interference, have a weak wireless signal, or face limitations with your wireless network adapter. Here’s how you can achieve this by using two essential components: Power Line Communication (PLC) devices and a network switch.
PLC devices operate through your home’s electrical wiring. Typically, they come in a pack of two. You’ll need to connect one to your router and the other to a power outlet in a different location within your house. This setup extends your network connection to that remote area.
Once you have this arrangement in place, the next step is to connect a network switch to the PLC. It’s crucial to ensure that you purchase PLCs with Ethernet ports, as some models only offer Wi-Fi connectivity, which isn’t suitable for our purpose. By connecting the network switch to the PLC, you’ll have the capability to link multiple wired devices.
It’s worth noting that network switches come in various configurations, offering differing numbers of Ethernet ports. You can choose a model with 4 ports, 8 ports, 16 ports, or more, depending on your specific requirements. If you plan to connect numerous devices, opt for a switch with a sufficient number of available ports.
Now, let’s discuss an essential factor: speed. To ensure optimal performance, you’ll want devices that offer good speed, especially if you intend to stream videos on your television, play games on your computer, and so on. First, the PLCs you select should provide adequate speed. Furthermore, keep in mind that the speed will be distributed among the ports on the switch. In other words, if you connect 4 devices to a PLC that supports up to 2000 Mbps, each of those 4 devices won’t achieve 2000 Mbps individually.
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Additionally, pay attention to the speed supported by the network switch itself. Some models feature Fast Ethernet, while others offer Gigabit Ethernet. The distinction is significant, as Fast Ethernet is limited to 100 Mbps, whereas Gigabit Ethernet supports speeds of up to 1 Gbps—a crucial consideration, especially when leveraging high-speed fiber optic connections. Understanding the differences between managed and unmanaged switches can also be beneficial.
By employing PLC devices and a network switch, you can effortlessly connect numerous wired devices to the internet. This method eliminates the reliance on wireless networks, potentially resulting in a more stable connection with better speed and reliability.