The most widely used standard for powerline networks is called HomePlug. The greatest advantage of HomePlug and other powerline networks is that the wires are already in place. Every AC wall socket in the house can double as a network connection point. It’s also more secure than Wi-Fi, and it can reach greater distances than a Wi-Fi network with just one base station. Wi-Fi signals are often blocked by thick walls and other obstacles that make no difference to a powerline system.