IOGear GHPB21 user manual HomePlug NetworkTopologies

Network Configuration

You will have to use bridges to connect two Macintoshes, because the utility software is only compatible with Windows-based computers.

Can I use both in the same network?

Yes. It is possible to have both nodes and bridges on a network as long as there is only a maximum of 16 bridges. It is also fine to have USB nodes on the same network with Ethernet nodes.

How do I decide whether I need a USB adapter or Ethernet bridge as a node?

It should be determined by the available connection on the computer that you plan to connect to the HomePlug network. If the computer comes with a 10/100 Base-T network card, use the bridge; if the computer comes with USB port, use the USB adapter. If the computer comes with both, you can decide which one to use based upon your unique situation.

For Macintosh and other non-Windows based computers, the Ethernet Bridge is the only choice.

HomePlug NetworkTopologies

There are various ways to connect your computers via HomePlug. If all HomePlug units are used as nodes, the topology is usually BUS. If bridges are used to connect two networks together, there maybe both BUS and STAR. The following are several examples.

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