Ethernet:the current standard technology and the one used by most businesses;links computers via special cable and a device called a hub.
HPNA (home phoneline network adapter): links computers via existing household telephone wiring.
Wireless: links computers without wiring, by using radio signals.
The following table lists other properties, advantages and disadvantages of each network type:
| Ethernet | HPNA | Wireless | |
| Hardware needed in addition to network adapter | Ethernet RJ-45 cables and a network hub. | Telephone cables and phone jacks | Mayneed an access point, a piece of hardware that acts as a centraltransmitter of radio signals between computers. Using an access pointallows networking between any two computers on the system and expandsthe area radio signals are sent. |
| Advantages | Currently the fastest, most reliable, least costly network technology. Most DSL and cable modems use Ethernet connections. | Easy installation; computers simply plug into ordinary phone jacks. | Mobile; you can move your laptop or desktop computer from room to room while remaining connected to the network. |
| Disadvantages | Requires cables linking computers or Ethernet wiring (similar to phone wiring) installed in walls. | Requires a phone jack near each computer. | Allnetworked computers must be within a specified distance to communicatewith each other. Currently, wireless networks lack some of thecapability of networks using physical connections. The cost of anaccess point is an additional expense to setting up the system. |