A “Powerline” adapter is a device that allows you to use your home’s electrical wiring to create a network connection. It’s typically 2 units, we might call them Brother-Sister units, that are great for extending internet access to areas where Wi-Fi signals are weak or unreliable.
How they works:
Basically, to use a Powerline adapter system, one adapter is plugged into a power outlet near your router. Using a short network ethernet cable, a cable is then connected from the Router to the Adapter.
Next, the second adapter is plugged into a power outlet in the room where you need internet access. Again, an ethernet cable is used to connect from the Powerline to a computer, smart TV, etc.
Powerlines come in different forms, some with 2 network connections and others including Wireless.
Essentially, the Powerlines establish a connection to each other, using the existing 240V cabling in your wall. Just like a 2 lane highway, networking data can travel along the 240V cabling without interfering with the power operations of the cabling.
Powerlines are great for residences and businesses where cabling isn’t possible.
Lastly, we need to bring up some caveats regarding their use.
1/ Powerline manufacturers don’t recommend pluging the units into power boards, as this will interfere with communication between the units. Therefore, it’s important to ensure they are plugged directly into the wall point.
2/Powerline systems are great when the wiring available is on the same circuit. This means on the same path. Running Powerline units, where the units exist on different circuits (in a business or residence) may require the actual power cabling to go through the primary circuit board. This can often interfere with Powerline operations.
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