This chapter has examined the analysts' reports in an attempt to shed light on how and when home area networks may become a reality. It is clear that there are a number of different networking technologies and, with the current state of the telecommunications market, the predictions for in-home networks are in years rather than months. Benefit, price and the access technology (broadband to the home) are all contributing factors. Connecting PCs on a local network to access the Internet for information will eventually merge with networked entertainment systems. This will generate a need for the residential gateway. Initially this is seen as part of the CPE (PC or set-top box) until costs fall and benefit grows. In reality, it is a confusing picture with many players and variables. It is the task of those in the technology areas to simplify, clarify and show the home users a clear path to networking their digital homes.

Chapter Contents:

• 3.1 Introduction
• 3.2 Why Do We Need a Home Area Network?
• 3.3 What is a Home Area Network?
• 3.4 Issues with Home Networking
• 3.5 Who are the Key Players?
• 3.6 Summary

Inspec keywords: LAN interconnection; Internet; broadband networks

Other keywords: networked entertainment system; CPE; digital home; Internet access; home area networks; telecommunications market; residential gateway; personal computer; in-home networks

Subjects: Computer communications