Network implementation trade-offs in existing homes

The ever-increasing demand for networking of high-bandwidth services in existing homes has resulted in several options for implementing an in-home network. Among the options are power-line communication techniques, wireless links, and glass single-mode optical fibers. Whereas it is easy to install high-bandwidth optical fibers during the construction of new living units, retrofitting of existing homes with networking capabilities requires some technology innovations. This paper addresses some trade-offs that need to be made on what transmission media can be retrofitted most effectively in existing homes.