Powerline Wireless At Work
Powerline networking technology might sound complicated, but it's not. The technology simply extends an Ethernet network via existing 110-volt wiring. The only special equipment you'll need to bridge over wireless dead spots are a few inexpensive powerline network adapters.
Getting Started
Setup takes less than an hour and is essentially a two-part process: First, install the powerline adapters. Then, configure the wireless adapter(s).
To start, all you need is an existing computer with a broadband connection of any sort and a router with one open Ethernet port. You can buy powerline adapters from any major networking company, including Belkin, D-Link, Linksys, Netgear and SMC. All the manufacturers use the HomePlug 1.0 standard—that's the wiring standard for 110V adapters—so you can mix them and they still work. These adapters are also compatible with standard Wi-Fi gear.
Four quick steps will get your powerline network established: First, run the installation CD on the computer that has the broadband connection and router/ hub. Second, install the software, then reboot the machine. Next, while the computer is rebooting, connect the hardware. Plug the powerline adapter's Cat-5 cable into your router or hub. Then plug the powerline adapter into the wall socket; it cannot go into a power strip or UPS.
Finally, plug an additional powerline adapter into a power plug anywhere else in the building or office. Repeat as needed. At this point, you don't need to connect a computer or access point to this adapter.
Next, you'll have to connect a wireless access point to the powerline adapter that's hanging off the remote electrical plug. Select a location that is both central and unimpeded by heavy structural features. Connect the wireless access point's Ethernet cable to the powerline adapter. Then connect the access point's power cable to an electrical outlet and check the LEDs on the front of the access point to make sure the status-indicator lights are shining.
Now, run the installation software:
1. Run the access point installation CD on the "host" computer.
2. The installation program will scan the network for wireless access points and show you a list of what's available.
3. Select the access point you just set up, then select "disable SSID broadcast." In doing so, you make the network invisible to outsiders and at the same time enhance security.
4. Configure the network settings for either DHCP for dynamic IP addresses or assign a static IP address to the device.
5. If you're using static IP addresses for the access point and remote clients, input a static IP address, Subnet Mask and Gateway Address that are consistent with your network.
6. Enable Wired Equivalent Privacy or Wi-Fi Protected Access.
7. Verify the settings. Now you've got a wireless access point hanging off the powerline network. It's broadcasting the network connection, which includes the broadband Internet connection.
8. Fire up a laptop or desktop with a wireless card or built-in wireless capability, and connect it to the wireless access point with the wireless access point manufacturer's software. You'll be able to see the access point on this client machine. With the right "pass phrase," you'll be able to connect to it privately and securely. The level of encryption will depend on whether you selected 128-bit or 64-bit encryption back in Step 6. n
Phil Dunn is a technology journalist and independent communications consultant.