1.3. Challenges

Although optimism abounds, unique challenges are to be met on this new frontier. Two primary concerns are the large number of competing solutions and an uncharted new environment in which to develop and deploy applications for homes.

1.3.1. A Multitude of Competing Solutions

Although IP over T1 and the Ethernet are the winning formulas for wide area networks and local area networks (LANs), respectively, many solutions are vying to serve the home. Although we do not offer detailed treatment of these alternatives, we feel it is beneficial to present a high-level view of the technological landscape.

For physical media used to network the home, the consensus seems to be that the existing infrastructure should be leveraged and no new ...

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