Abstract: A dielectric/conductive waveguide (20) includes a dielectric housing (22) having a longitudinal axis (14) and a central channel (29). A conductive layer (24,25) is affixed to the inner surface (21 ) and/or the outer surface (23) of the housing (22) to confine electromagnetic radiation (17) within the waveguide (20). Ribs (50,64) protruding into the channel (29) may be used to further confine the radiation (17). Sections of waveguide (20) may be combined using connectors (30). A local area network (90) can be formed using a plurality of sections of waveguide (20), computers (94), and bi-directional couplers (92). Air gaps (98) may break up the waveguide (20) at various places.