Powerline Adapters

Information, reviews and buying advice

Fast, secure internet without the cables

Independent information, reviews and buying advice on powerline adapters for UK homes.

Learn more

Understanding powerline adapters

01

The Wi-Fi problem

Wi-Fi speeds can fall well below your internet connection's potential due to router location, interference and the number of connected devices, and can raise security concerns if not properly configured.

02

The powerline solution

Powerline adapters piggy-back on your home's electrical wiring to create a wired network from any standard plug socket, combining the convenience of Wi-Fi with the speed and security of a wired connection.

03

Setting up your adapter

A simple, plug-and-play process: connect one adapter near your router and another near your device, then sync them to get a stable, wired-speed connection.

Read more
04

Speed you can expect

Real-world speeds are lower than the advertised maximum, but powerline adapters still typically offer a much faster, more stable connection than Wi-Fi alone.

Read more
05

Boosting your Wi-Fi

From router placement to reducing interference and securing your network, there are several ways to improve Wi-Fi speed, including adding a powerline adapter.

Read more

About this site

This site aims to give you an overview of the problems and benefits of these fantastic home networking devices. With the current emphasis on working from home, a powerline adapter can transform the way you work.

Powerline adapters are a fantastic way to get the most out of your internet connection without the need for cables trailing all around your home, combining convenience, flexibility, performance and security.

Common questions

What speed can I expect from a powerline adapter?

Real-world speeds are usually lower than the advertised maximum due to factors such as the age of your home's wiring, mains fluctuations and interference, but speeds typically range from around 500 Mbps to 2000 Mbps depending on the adapter, and are usually much faster than Wi-Fi alone.

What is the average Wi-Fi speed in the UK?

The average broadband speed in the UK is around 63 Mbps, but actual Wi-Fi speeds can range from about 10 Mbps to 50 Mbps depending on the router, distance and interference.

How do I set up a powerline adapter?

Plug one adapter into a socket near your router and connect it with an Ethernet cable, then plug the second adapter into a socket near your device and connect that too. Once the LEDs turn solid green the connection is stable, and you can configure security settings and test the connection.

How can I boost my Wi-Fi speed?

Move your router to a clearer, more central position, remove sources of interference, secure your network, try a different wireless channel, contact your provider if problems persist, or add a powerline adapter.

Want to know more?

Read our guides on choosing, setting up and getting the best speed from your powerline adapter.

Learn more

Get in touch