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Allnet router with Powerline, Wi-Fi and Fast Ethernet

Summary

In January 2005 Allnet presented the ALL1681 DSL router, which connects devices to the internet via Ethernet, Wi-Fi or the power line (HomePlug Powerline). It offered four 10/100 Mbit ports, an 802.11g access point with 54 Mbit/s and an SPI firewall. Up to 14 Mbit/s within a radius of around 200 metres were to be possible over the power grid.

Ideas

  • One device combined three ways of home networking.
  • Powerline uses the power line as a network cable.
  • Signals over power and radio often reach beyond your own flat.

Insights

  • Every shared medium, whether radio or power line, needs encryption.
  • All-in-one devices simplify installation but also concentrate the risk of failure.

Facts

  • The Wi-Fi worked according to IEEE 802.11g at 54 Mbit/s.
  • Powerline was to reach up to 14 Mbit/s over around 200 metres.
  • According to Golem, the device was unlikely to be available for less than 160 euros.

References

Critique

  • The report gives gross data rates without pointing out the considerably lower net values in everyday use.

Recommendations

  • Encrypt Powerline connections with your own key instead of the factory setting.
  • Measure the real throughput of Powerline and Wi-Fi before relying on manufacturer specifications.

Read the original article

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