A method and apparatus for protecting privacy in power line communication
(PLC) networks. Data transmitted on a PLC network is encrypted according
to a network key and can be properly received only by registered devices
that have the proper network ID and network key value so that proper
decryption can be performed. According to the invention a streaming media
device is provided with a compatible network ID and network key during a
registration process facilitated by coupling the device (applicant) to a
direct power line connection associated with another device
(administrator). The network key, and optionally network ID, are then
shared over the direct connection without being distributed over the PLC
network at large. By way of example, the data is prevented from being
distributed across the PLC network in response to using selectable
filtering of PLC data, and preferably a secure data communication
mechanism, such as public-private key encoding.