Cisco opens a door to the Internet home

The Internet is just another utility in Cisco Systems' networked home, unveiled Wednesday. The 1,700-square-foot model showcased all the possibilities: from lighting to music controls. The company's Internet Home Gateway can be used in three types of home networking systems. For $500, users can have high-speed wireless Internet access in every room. Cable networking, at $1,500, provides more access points. Customized controls can run as much as $100,000. Developer Playa Vista is working with Cisco to provide Internet and network infrastructure in a new 13,000-resident community in Southern California. -- ZDNet News