Internet Access Guide : Other Internet Access Methods

Internet Access over Powerline

The thought to use the AC power grid to deliver Internet to the homes has been around for long. Intensive studies and tests by HomePlug Powerline Alliance members have led to a candidate standard for delivering broadband Internet services over the power network. The standard is called HomePlug BPL (Broadband over Power Line). The standard is still being developed but one can expect to have Internet out of home power outlets in the coming years.

Picture: Broadband over Powerline (BPL)
Get electricity and Internet from the wall power jack.

There are other types of Internet access methods not explained in this guide that have been used for years, in early deployment, or still being developed, such as those using:
- dial-up access over ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network),
- other DSL flavors: HDSL, SDSL, VDSL,
- leased line (nx64 kbps, E1/T1),
- CDPD (Cellular Digital Packet Data),
- HSCSD (High Speed Circuit Switched Data),
- EVDO (Evolution Data Only),
- EDGE (Enhanced Data rate for GSM and TDMA Evolution), and
- 3G (Third Generation) mobile technology.