One of the bugbears of wireless networks is dead zones within one’s home, where the Wi-Fi signal does not reach. The solution? ZyXEL’s 500 Mbps Powerline Wireless N Extender Kit.

The solution rather ingeniously relies on something that is very common in just about every room, namely electrical outlets. By plugging the Powerline adapter into these outlets, users can effectively create a Powerline network that functions like a Wi-Fi network, but with several compelling advantages. To start with, one of the main benefits offered by the Powerline extender kit is that users can connect in rooms that would otherwise pose a problem for conventional Wi-Fi signals, such as when there are thick concrete walls between one’s devices and the router.

Streaming, streamlined

For connected users who have a particular preference for streaming high-content media like video and games, the device also boasts stability as well as improved performance thanks to the inclusion of IEEE 1901 500 Mbps technology. Another common scenario addressed by the Powerline Wireless N Extender Kit is that of multiple users in a household, each requiring stable and very good performance for simultaneous intensive uses, such as HD streaming, multiplayer gaming and surfing YouTube or the internet. For any type of connectivity, especially wireless, security is always of paramount concern. With this in mind, the kit boasts 128-bit AES encryption and Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS).

Better than...

The ZyXEL PLA4231 bests many of its competitors in a number of ways. Firstly, the ZyXEL device boasts a data rate of up to 500 Mbps, more than double that of most competitors’ 200 Mbps. Furthermore, the two Ethernet ports on the device enable users to now connect more than one wired device (smart TV, home-theatre, console) at a time. The ZyXEL is also both sleeker and smaller than what others are offering.

Available from selected Telkom Direct and Matrix Warehouse stores. For more information on the ZyXEL PLA4231 Wireless N Extender Kit, visit www.zyxel.co.za.