Net Access: Socket to Me. “Imagine surfing the Internet by simply plugging your computer into the wall outlet.

That’s the idea behind power line communications, which use low voltage electrical lines to transmit
voice and data signals.

Proponents say the technology beats the socks off other broadband methods by offering transmission
rates up to five times faster than cable modems for about half the price. Fast, cheap, ubiquitous
Internet. It’s a geek’s wet dream.

But before you start the heavy breathing, consider this: Although the technology has been hyped since
the late ’90s and companies from Argentina to Israel have been racing to get it up and running, the
future of powerline seems murky at best. And if you’re an American, your possibilities of ever getting broadband access through
the outlet next to the john are next to zero.” Wired