Abbreviated as BPL, broadband over power line is a technology that allows Internet data to be transmitted over utility power lines. To use BPL the subscriber needs to use a special broadband modem (phone, cable or satellite) that plugs into an electrical outlet. Internet services are received via radio waves over electrical lines, using many of the same frequencies that are traditionally used for ham radio. There are two types of BPL: in-building BPL technology, which uses the electrical wiring within a building and access BPL, which uses the electrical power distribution grid to provide broadband Internet access.
See also power line communications (PLC), and power line networking.
