A wired Ethernet based on RG6 coaxial cable and Category 5 data cable remains the most reliable and secure means for shuttling control and multimedia signals throughout the house. The solution is only viable for the new construction market, however, where a structured wiring network can be installed during the wiring phase.

Although structured wiring experienced growth in the builder market annually from 2002-2004, according to the most recent joint CEA/National Home Builders Association (NAHB) State of the Home Technology Builder Study, there was a decline in homes built with structured wiring in 2005.  The report suggests the decline may have been caused by the rise in wireless home networking technologies. At the same time, the report finds, applications such as multi-room audio/video solutions, IP-addressable speakers and connected appliances benefit most from a wired network due to reliability of wired connections.

According to the study, custom installed networked entertainment systems including multi-room audio continue to experience growth in the new home market. Other custom technologies including lighting control systems, home automation and energy management continue to grow as well, although these high-end technologies are installed in only 10 percent of new homes today, the report found.