It used to be that you only had two options if you needed to connect a computer tucked away in a remote portion of your home to a network. You could either use a wireless network which is limited by range, or tear the walls of your home apart to run an Ethernet cable. Now a third solution has come to the market and we’re going to take a good look at it

Introducing Sling Media’s SlingLink Turbo! Two versions are available, one that includes one Ethernet port per SlingLink, and a second option that includes four Ethernet ports with an integrated switch. The standard one-port SlingLink set will run $79.99 and the four port version will set you back $149.99. Included in both packages are two SlingLink boxes, two power cords, and a single Ethernet cable.

1. Installation

Creating your first SlingLink network couldn’t be easier. There are a couple of conditions that do need to be satisfied before you can setup your powerline network for the first time: You cannot connect the SlingLinks through a surge supressor or power strip, and both SlingLinks must be on the same major circuit. The latter condition usually isn’t an issue unless you have two main circuits running through your home (you had a second added after building an addition to your home, you have an ungodly huge house.)

To setup your first powerline network you’ll need to start by connecting both SlingLink adapters to the electical outlets at both the estranged computer and near your existing network’s router or switch. You then connect the Ethernet cables to the devices and should be ready to go once the Link Light on both units is lit. Sling Media has more detailed installation instructions available here.

2. Operation

The SlingLinks are very transparent devices and do not require any configuration once properly connected. The manufacturer claims the devices are capable of transferring data at 85mbps but our tests fell a bit short and my home’s ancient wiring probably didn’t help. The transfer speed is still more than enough to get the most out of your Internet connection and for streaming video content across your internal network. Even during massive transfers the devices remained connected without a hint of trouble, long term reliability hasn’t been an issue with my clients that have had them installed.

3. Conclusion

If you need a network solution that is fast, secure, and easy to install than the SlingLinks are perfect. The only issue I have with the product is the somewhat steap price and it would be nice if they would supply a second Ethernet cable.