How to get Internet in every room of your house
— -- The Internet is now a pervasive (some folks even say necessary) part of the modern household. Not only do computers, phones, and tablets use the Internet, but smart TVs stream huge amounts of content from the web. You can even now enjoy a smart fridge with its own touchscreen and Internet connection! Seriously — you can download MP3s, check your e-mail, and organize your photo albums using an Internet refrigerator. Give it time and we'll all be rocking smart toilets. The message is clear: The Internet's here to stay, and greater access throughout our homes (and even in our cars) is a continuing trend.
Wi-fi is the most common and obvious solution for getting the Internet throughout your entire house. A single router broadcasts a wireless signal that passes through walls, floors, ceilings, and any other obstacles.
Of course, Wi-Fi has its own downsides and limitations. An improperly secured network leaves your Internet open to nefarious individuals who might violate your privacy. Also, wireless access is not yet as robust as a wired connection for use with online games, where any interruption to the flow of data can spell doom and gloom. Wi-fi also won't always penetrate thick walls, especially if that wall isn't standard stud-and-drywall construction or there are several walls between your router and the device trying to use its signal.
For those reasons and more, you might prefer an actual cable for providing Internet service to your bedrooms, office, and other rooms in your home. You have options besides a simple Wi-Fi network to getting the Internet in each room.
Run some cable
Your router probably has jacks on the back for a couple of additional ethernet cables. While the cable that came with your computer might only be a few feet long, this type of cable is also available in huge spools. You probably see where this is going — instead of using a Wi-Fi connection, you can run the ethernet cable through the walls, floors, and ceilings of your house so that a cable or jack (or two) is available in every room.
Doing this presents a few challenges. First, compared to most houses, the Internet is actually relatively young. Home networking just wasn't a home-building concern 10 to 15 years ago, and putting in networking cables and jacks still isn't a universal practice for most home construction. If your home doesn't already include it, setting up Internet cable behind walls will take some know-how and elbow grease.
While poking a hole in drywall isn't a terribly difficult task, building and construction codes may regulate where your network cable can be placed; you can't just throw the cable behind some drywall and expect to satisfy code. For example, many jurisdictions require that networking cable must be several inches away from electrical wiring. Running that cable will require drilling holes in your studs so the cable can pass through. You'll also have to avoid any duct work, plumbing, and other obstacles within the walls.
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