You don't have to buy or install much to get started with a phone-line network. Companies such as Diamond Multimedia and Intel sell adapters based on the HomePNA 1.0 spec that run at 1 mbps. Newer 10-mbps models, based on HomePNA 2.0, are available only for PCI slots. Only one company, 3Com produces the chips, which has limited the products' appearance in the market. Vendors plan to introduce USB versions within the next year.
Many people install home networks to share a printer or high-speed Internet access.
To make that easier, some vendors include software that walks you through the process, such as Best Data's Home PC Link. Internet sharing software, included with Diamond Multimedia's HomeFree and Netronix You can also purchase the software separately. Phone-line networks can also work as additions to existing networks. Michael Gowan is a staff editor for PC World.