Network equipment makers are supporting different wireless standards , which could lead to confusion among consumers if they buy products that are not compatible. Intel's latest home networking kit will let people wirelessly link their Windows-based PCs and laptops, so they can share an Internet connection, files and computer peripherals, such as printers. The product, which will allow laptop users to roam around the house and Web surf, will be available in stores within two weeks, Intel executives said today at the Internet World conference in Los Angeles. Intel is one of many networking firms entering the fledgling home networking market that is expected to explode in the next few years as high-speed Internet access becomes widely available . An alliance between 3Com and Microsoft, Lucent Technologies and Nortel Networks' NetGear are among the many companies fighting for a piece of the action.
Wireless kits are the next wave of home networking products.
Previously, Intel, 3Com and others came out with phoneline kits that let people link computers by plugging them into phone jacks. You can't have two competing wireless standards. 3Com's product, when it comes out, will be within 10 feet of Intel's. It's going to cost lots of money for the companies to educate the consumers. You have to look at the box and look for the right logo to make sure the products are compatible.