By JACK KAPICA
Globe and Mail Update

After years of refusing to support home computer networks, Internet service provider Sympatico has bowed to reality and is launching a home-networking bundle to subscribers.

Sympatico, Bell Canada's Internet service provider, announced a new Wireless Home Networking package, involving high-speed access for multiple computers and IP-enabled devices, such as Xbox and Play Station 2 gaming consoles.

Home networking equipment has been available for several years now, and many people have installed systems for less than $100. A couple of years ago Sympatico insisted that any customers with home networks had to be subscribed to the more expensive business package; but as home nets became more popular, Sympatico eventually relented and simply refused to troubleshoot bad connections for people who had a router installed.

"Sympatico is responding to what more and more Canadians say they want in their homes: fast, simple, secure and fully supported wireless connectivity allowing them to access the Internet throughout their home," Bell Canada vice-president Charlotte Burke said in a statement announcing the bundle.

New customers of the Sympatico High Speed and High Speed Ultra services can receive the integrated wireless high-speed modem and router in place of the standard modem for $69.95. Existing customers can exchange their standard modems for the new wireless home networking modems for an upgrade fee or for free, bundled with access, if they sign a 12-month agreement at $44.95 per month for High Speed service or $59.95 per month for Ultra service.

Continued @ The Globe and Mail