Almost one-third of all U.S. broadband homes are "interested" in purchasing a home networking product this year, according to a new study from Park Associates.

The study, which surveyed 10,500 U.S. Internet homes (4,500 narrowband and 6,000 broadband), said the momentum is due in large part to the marketing efforts of service providers and retailers and a strong consumer interest in networking content.

"There is little doubt that demand for home networking is finally ramping up," said Michael Greeson, senior analyst and director of broadband research for Parks Associates.

Two-thirds of those surveyed said that sharing an Internet connection with multiple PCs was the top reason for network adoption.

Though home networking equipment has found comfy homes on retail shelves as of late, several cable operators have jumped into the game, adding a home networking option to their broadband repertoires.

Cox Communications is the most recent example of this trend. The MSO has partnered with Linksys to offer a home networking bundle that includes elements such as hardware, installation and ongoing customer service.