Finally, we took the dLAN modules. One notebook was wired directly to the switch. We then took a cable from the switch to the dLAN module and plugged it in to the nearest mains socket. Our notebook was then plugged into another electrical outlet. Transfer was 3.75MB/sec which equates to 30Mbit/sec. This is still a fairly good result and near to that of close range wireless, but no where near the stated 85Mbit/sec. When compared to wireless at a distance (which is more than likely the way most users will implement it) that this solution really shines. The loss in speed is no where near as drastic over the power lines and you don’t have the other associated issues with wireless networks.

Performance is a little lower than we would have expected and is certainly not out to replace traditional cabling, but the Devolo MicroLink dLAN does offer the same reliability of transfer. There are also no issues of reception and it can in theory travel up to 200m, which is pretty much any power outlet in your house. Add to this the fact that you're not going to have to muck about with MAC address filtering, hiding your SSID or go through the trials and tribulations of WEP and WPA keys, and it's clear that this will be an attractive proposition for the non-techie home user.