Engadget outlines three methods for wired internet without wall cables
A recent analysis by Engadget details how homeowners can achieve lower latency and higher stability by leveraging existing infrastructure or minimally invasive fibre installations.
An Engadget article published on 27 May 2026 examines alternatives to running traditional ethernet cables through walls, highlighting three primary technologies: Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA), powerline adapters, and ethernet over fibre. The piece argues that wired connections offer lower latency and less interference than Wi-Fi, making them preferable for demanding activities like online gaming and 4K streaming.
MoCA utilises existing coaxial cabling, often used for cable TV, to transmit broadband signals. Current standards promise a maximum of 2.5Gbps, though real-world speeds typically range between 400Mbps and 2.5Gbps depending on cable age and quality. The article notes that users should verify if their modem supports the tech and may need a cable splitter to share a single coax outlet between the modem and an adapter.
Powerline adapters transmit data through electrical wiring using orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM). Performance is highly dependent on the home's electrical infrastructure. In a best-case scenario where outlets are on the same breaker with no shared circuits, speeds may reach approximately 600Mbps. However, speeds can drop to 300Mbps if adapters are on different breakers on the same side of the panel, or fall to 100Mbps if they are on opposite sides.
Interference from major appliances, such as HVACs and dryers, or devices plugged into the same outlet can significantly degrade or cut out powerline signals. The article advises avoiding extension cords and large electronics on the same duplex outlet as an adapter to maintain signal integrity.
Ethernet over fibre involves laying new, thin fibre optic cables, offering consistent 1Gbps speeds without degradation from existing wiring quality or interference. This method requires careful handling to avoid kinking, with minimum bend radii ranging from 2.5mm to 10mm depending on the cable type. While fibre optic kits are notably more expensive, running a couple of hundred dollars, they provide a reliable alternative for those willing to invest in premium performance.
