Member Avatar for boattraveller78

What do you guys think of powerline ethernet?
Is it a better investment than Wireless-N?

  • 4 Contributors
  • 3 Replies
  • 118 Views
  • 2 Days Discussion Span
  • Latest Post Latest Post by MArcher

Dani AI

Generated

This thread shows a mix of real-world experiences from , and . A reliable way to pick between powerline and Wireless‑N is to test both in-place and choose the one that meets the actual metrics you need (throughput, latency, jitter and stability), rather than relying on vendor claims or one off experiences.

Practical test plan:

  • Establish a wired baseline first: run a temporary Ethernet run if possible or use a laptop directly on the router to measure best-case throughput and latency.
  • Test powerline in-situ: plug adapters directly into wall outlets (not surge protectors), pair them, and run repeated file transfers or iperf tests between locations at different times of day and on different outlets. Record throughput, packet loss and latency.
  • Test WiFi from the same client location: try both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (if available), change channels, and rerun the same tests.
    Compare results for sustained throughput and stability; occasional peaks matter less than consistent usable speed for streaming or gaming.

Practical buying/configuration tips:

  • For powerline prefer AV2/gigabit models, passthrough outlets and AES-capable adapters; avoid plugging into power strips, UPS or GFCI outlets if you can (these often reduce signal). Update adapter firmware and use the vendor pairing button to secure the link.
  • For WiFi, use dual‑band APs, place the router centrally, minimize physical obstructions, and use 40 MHz only where it does not cause heavy interference; consider a mesh system if single-AP coverage is the issue.
    For background on the standards and how theoretical rates differ from real world performance see Power‑line communication and IEEE 802.11n.

Recommended Answers

All 3 Replies

Member Avatar for clandestine_j

I have tried powerline Ethernet before in situations where running cables was not possible and wireless had trouble too. My verdict is: run like there is a zombie attack in progress. I had ton of issues with things like noise leakage into the devices, configuration problems and oddly, a light switch that caused the network to get shutoff. Not worth the effort in maintaining it. I *suppose* if it was the only option you had then it might be ok, but if you are willing to go that route then just spend the money on a good N setup with decent antennas.
~j

Member Avatar for OlyComputers

It really depends on what you're doing, Powerline networking has it's uses (home automation, long distance runs old building where wireless doesn't work and running new cable isn't possible) but for most network implementations you'll get better real world speed and a lot less headaches out of wireless N

Member Avatar for MArcher

I've had much better luck with powerline than with wireless. The powerline connection is much more reliable. The wireless connection fades in and out depending on what's going on in the house (microwave, wireless phone, baby monitor, etc.) The peak speed of the network is definitely faster with WiFi, but for my money the more reliable (and slightly slower) powerline link is much preferred.

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.