It is projected that over the next 5 to 10 years, most homes will have some kind of networking technology. Today, most new homes come pre-wired for networking. A wired network is considered the best due to it's reliability, security and speed but many advances in wireless technologies have also made it possible to network homes that do not have the proper wiring. Wired or wireless, the idea is the same, to connect devices together so they can communicate.

Installing a wired Ethernet home network using CAT5 wiring (or better) is the best way to enhance the value of your home. A wired network offers security, fast access speeds, and centralized control. The networks are known as Ethernet LANs (local area networks), the same networks used by businesses worldwide. Ethernet has the advantage of offering the greatest connection speeds – up to 100 Mbps or more. Consider this option if you plan to share extremely large files such as streaming movies or other large multimedia files on your home network. You'll be glad you did at resale time!

In an Ethernet network, each computer has an Ethernet network adapter and connects to a network hub or switch. With the popularity of home networking many computers today have built-in Ethernet adapters to simplify networking.  Ethernet network adapters, also known as NICs,  are less expensive than other adapters or wireless kits if you consider only the cost of the hardware. However, the cost advantage diminishes if you need to install the Ethernet cable in the walls of your home.  You should find out if your house is pre-wired (and what type of wiring) from your builder or by having one of our specialist perform a Onsite Home Assessment. Having builder installed wiring does not guarantee good performance however. Most builders use panels that resemble  electrical panels to centralize the equipment and wiring. That is what builders are familiar with...but  unfortunately that approach  restricts wireless performance (metal restricts wireless range) and limits the capacity of installing new equipment in the future by forcing you to use a certain manufacturer equipment. A better approach, in our view, is to install a network data center in a closet or laundry room. For a view of a 6-line network data center that was installed in a home office closet... click here. This is a simple setup that is future proof, flexible  and very cost effective. This approach also lets you add servers and printers to share in your home or office.

If you believe your house has the proper wiring or you would like to install new wiring, you may want to consider a visit by one of our representatives to give you an Onsite Home Assessment. The Home Assessment will determine your exact networking needs and is the preferred choice for a home network with 3  or more computers and  multiple printers, scanners and other equipment. A network center setup can be installed in a closet, home office or kitchen as described above.