It would be nice if we could all sit right beside our modem as that is the point where - however good or bad our signal is – it is at the maximum we will get. If you use Wi-Fi then any distance will mean a drop in signal strength. One choice that will work – even in far flung areas where Wi-Fi is poor or non-existent – is power through mains plugs.
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click image to enlargeDevolo have such a product called Magic 2. In the UK your electrics are on a ring main and providing both the master socket and any subsidiary Devolo plugs are on the same ring main you can live in any shape of building with solid concrete walls – normally very bad for Wi-Fi – the signal should not be reduced.
The main (starter kit) unit and a LAN triple come in the same box and then should you need it you can buy extra LAN triples.
The main unit is 13x6x5cm and – those of us with skirting board sockets a big cheer – as the plug part is at the base of the unit. On the top of the unit is the single LAN port which goes via supplied Ethernet lead to your router or modem/router. The face of the unit has a plug face so whatever was in the electricity socket can now be connected into the face of the Devolo unit. You should not put the Devolo unit onto a gang socket and certainly not a surge strip.
The triple has as the name states three Ethernet ports so not only your PC but a NAS and a printer can all be connected. The socket is slightly bigger at 14.5x7x5cm with like the master unit the plug at the base with another item connection on the front.
There is a 14x9.5cm booklet to describe everything in pictures and setup should be straightforward.
If you purchase extra LAN triples they also have three Ethernet ports on the top and an Ethernet lead.
While Wi-Fi is convenient as you can walk around while connected it is always a little less secure than an Ethernet connection. These units support up to 2400mbps.
In a large household – or even a small office – then certain things like a NAS need Ethernet. Other peripherals such as printers/scanners/copiers also normally work better via a Ethernet connection especially if shared by several PC’s.
While this unit has been around for a year what is new this year is that you get three Ethernet ports on top of the triple unit where as it was only two.
These units can also integrate items into a ‘Smart Home’.
At the time of publication the Devolo Magic 2 Triple Starter Kit is available from Amazon for £153.99.
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