Conclusions
Simple to use. Without having any advanced settings to mess about with, the powerline kit worked straight after the USB drivers were installed.
Security if you want it. Change the 56bit encrypted password to put up a small barrier to unwanted guests. The security should not be taken as invincible but as a security friend I know says “Why have 512bit encryption when you leave the server room unlocked?”
A rival to wireless if you have a spare power socket. Potential buyers should consider the differences between wireless and HomePlug, as aside from a USB adapter and lead the wireless devices don’t look too outstanding. Stability goes to the powerline products, response time goes to powerline, transfer rates are split, price is split (unless you are spending out on 802.11g technology which is still rather costly right now). Response time is superb as we have seen, a definite benefit for gamers.
Documentation is basic, and is at best a step by step installation guide. Not too many troubleshooting tips so you have to go to tech support.
Build quality in my opinion is the only sore point. The cheap plastic finish makes the bridge look a little unprofessional, the push switch is also a disappointment. A real shame as the adapter looks and feels much more solid.
The powerline bridge and USB adapter have proved to be another step in the right direction for home networking. Offering compatibility to the majority of operating systems, offering performance rival to more expensive 802.11b wireless technologies, with the advantages of having no new wires in the home.
Two thumbs up for the electronics, just a single thumb up for the physical product, but an enthusiastic grin for the value for money.
Upspeed have produced a good product based on a proven chipset, any person wanting to buy a wireless network should heavily consider this no new wires solution from the Upspeed distributor Bestcom.
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