INTRODUCTION

   It's no secret that if you require the best possible internet access both in terms of performance and security then your best option is obviously to use a wired connection. Wireless connections are obviously the only choice when on the road so no one can really deny their usefulness but the current level of technology isn't close to providing the same data transfer speeds and security one can enjoy by using a wired one so until that changes we also prefer to follow that path. Because of that Powerline adapters have become quite popular amongst consumers who want to extend either their home or business network and although still not perfect since they rely much on the quality of the structures electrical grid they do offer a great alternative to using extra cables and WiFi. We've already reviewed quite a few such devices but today it's our very first encounter with one manufactured by Linksys the PLEK500 500Mbps Powerline Homeplug AV2 Kit (contains two PLE500 adapters).

   The Linksys brand has pioneered wireless connectivity since its inception in 1988 with its leading innovation and engineering strategies, and best-in-class technology, design, and customer service. Linksys enables a connected lifestyle for people at home, at work and on the move, and with its award-winning products, simplifies home control, entertainment, security and Internet access through innovative features and a growing application and partner ecosystem.

   Although in the market currently one can find numerous Powerline adapters with various features such as built-in electrical sockets (some of which even record power consumption of devices plugged to it), up to 4 LAN ports, Wi-Fi connectivity, energy management and remote access Linksys has decided to keep things really simple with their PLEK500 500Mbps Powerline Homeplug AV2 Kit since aside being quite small these adapters just offer 500Mbps speeds over a single LAN port. Also Powerline adapters may use the local electrical grid but data encryption is still a must so the PLEK500 adapters offer AES 128bit encryption with key management. It goes without saying that we'd like to see more LAN ports and a built-in electrical socket but performance is equally important so let’s see what the PLEK500 500Mbps Powerline Homeplug AV2 Kit can do.