1. Travis 1
Mark A. Travis
Modern Networking
March 2008
Pages 24-29
Home Networking
Home users connect multiple computers and devices together in a home network. Home
networking saves money and provides conveniences. Approximately 39 million homes have more than
one computer. Many vendors offer home using wired or wireless techniques. There are three types of
wired home networks: Ethernet, powerline cable, and phoneline (Travis).
Traditional Ethernet networks require that each computer have built-in network capabilities or
contain a network card, which connects to a central network hub or similar device with a physical cable.
This may involve running cable through walls, ceilings, and floors in the house. The hardware and
software of an Ethernet network can be difficult to configure for the average home user (Deakins). A
phoneline network is an easy-to-install and inexpensive network that uses existing telephone lines in
home. A home powerline cable network is a network that uses the same lines that bring electricity into
the house. This netwrok requires no additional wiring.
Two types of wireless home networks: HomeRF and Wi-Fi (Technology). Wireless networks have
the disadvantage of interference, because walls, ceilings, and other electrical devices such as cordless
telephones and microwave ovens can discrupt wireless communications. A HomeRF (radio frequency)
network uses radio waves, instead of cables, to transmit data. A Wi-Fi network sends signals over a
wider distance than HomeRF network, which can be up to 1,500 feet in some configurations.

2. Travis 2
Works Cited
Deakins, Frank A. Home Networking. New York: Current Press, 2008.
Technology, Gary B. Shelly and Thomas J. Cashman of Course. "Wired and Wireless Networks". 23 april
2008. <www.scsite.com/wd2007/pr2/wc.htm>.
Travis, Mark A. ""Wired vs. Wireless Networks"." Modern Networking march 2008: 24-29.