The present invention relates to the efficient distribution of equipment for communication modules in a communication networking environment. Where a plurality communication devices serves a networking function, economy of cost and space are obtained by providing equipment and functionality for the individual computing devices from a centralized location such as a base station thereby enabling a simpler and less expensive design for the individual communication devices. The individual computing devices may thereby be made much smaller effecting savings in space at an Internet service provider location. Savings are also obtained by reducing the total number of components required and by reducing the total power consumption of the totality of the hardware in the network. Equipment most amenable to removal from the individual units and centralization in a base station include the main power supply, backup power supply, cooling fans.