The answer: in-home networking. This new application uses existing telephone wiring or radio-style receivers to link PCs within a home or small office, effectively creating a local area network. By year-end, some 280,000 households will use "no new wires" applications for in-home networking, according to Parks Associates, a residential technologies market research and consulting firm. By the end of 2000, that number should rise to 580,000; by 2004, it will approach 7 million.

"Dad can now do his online banking at the same time mom is checking her e-mail and Timmy is surfing the Internet," says Ryan Ashton, vice president of marketing for Intelogis. "Family members no longer have to argue over whose turn it is to be online."

"For many people with multiple PCs and the need for more than one Internet connection or printer, this will be the answer," adds Kurt Scherf, Parks' in-home network analyst. "Bottom line, it means peace of mind at a reduced cost."

From the article "Lan Ho! Networking opportunities—make the connections without having to leave your home!" by Jeffery D. Zbar."

Next: Welcome to the Home of Tomorrow

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