ble modems have already made signifi- cant headway, and PONs are enjoying widespread popularity at the moment, while PLT technology is still in the early stages of deployment. As mentioned at the beginning of this chapter, there are many issues to consider when attempting to determine the best solution, as a provider and as a consumer; the choice depends on the prevailing conditions. Smart devices, such as the many devices discussed in this book's introduction, need channels over which to communicate, so the more computers, communications devices, entertainment vehicles, and intelligent appliances and accessories present in a home (such as home automation or security tools), the greater the likelihood that they all need a home network-a HAN-over which to exchange information in order to realize their true value. The emergence of intelligent appliances also opens up an entirely new level of market involvement. It creates a new outlet for knowledge, content, and informa- tion services that can be offered by online experts and service providers. A smart appliance acts as a vehicle for stimulating interest in activities that benefit from using the appliance. In essence, the appliance becomes a part of a collaborative sys- tem that satisfies a much higher human need. Basically, a smart device needs a rea- son to exist, and that reason is a continually developing set of applications and services with which to better our lives. It is therefore important to look beyond the last mile and at technologies that apply in home area networking. The HAN Market, Applications, and Elements Broadband deployments are accelerating. As of early 2006, on the order of 200 mil- lion broadband access lines had been deployed worldwide. Traditionally, broad- band deployments have focused on core networks and on the last mile (i.e., the local loop). But the last mile is really only half of the broadband solution. Simplic- ity and user-friendliness are driving rapid penetration of intelligence into all the various home elements. The HAN-which