I've been online for as many years as I care to remember and I've done so lately through a great little wireless router by Belkin. However when I moved into a brand new flat, I thought "time to upgrade" and my purchase was in the form of this Netgear WGR 614 Wireless Router.
When I first took the router out of the box I was impressed to see the number of ADSL splitters I got with it, (three in total) but for now I only needed the one. Setup was what I would call 'normal' - Plug in the mains power and plug in the supplied RJ11 phone cable to the splitter. Then either hook up a computer via an Ethernet cable or hook up through a wireless connection. Another few mins and you're away.
This router allows up to 4 wired Ethernet connections along with many, many wireless connections. Both the 802.11b, g and pre-n draft specification are catered for by default so nearly all your kit will work out-of-the-box. It's important to remember however, that should you have multiple specification equipment connected, the connection will usually drop to the lowest specification. This will change when the connected equipment alters.
Range is very good with this router. Our flat has very thick walls but I'm pleased (and surprised) to say that my MacBook reports full wireless signal from anywhere inside the house - and it's a large flat.
The control panel for the router is easy to get around offers a wide selection of easy to configure features. If you're someone who's an expert with networks then the availability of configurable menus and buttons will not dissapoint. However should you be new to everything then don't be afraid as Netgear set all the defaults to recommended settings and you'll never really have a need to get deeply involved.
If you're looking to set up a wireless network for your home or small business I can strongly recommend this piece of kit. It has a small footprint, is silent in operation and doesn't get too hot. Easy to configure, quick to get going from being switched off and so far it's never lost its connection or dropped a wireless connection for me.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Hi great review and seems like a good purchase. However one quick question. I currently connect through an adsl modem dirctly either into my laptop or desktop (depends which one I need). Would this router omit the use of my modem? I guessing the router takes the phone cable in, dials for the connection then give a wireless signal.
sosull 01.06.2007 21:48
Setup is handled via the router so all operating systems are catered for here. I have Windows XP installed in my flat, but I also use OS X on my MacBook and I have Ubuntu Linux running. In fact right now the Ethernet connection is plugged in for my linux installation. It works with pretty much everything. Thanks for the comment :)
jesi 01.06.2007 01:56
Sounds pretty good ~ does it work with any system? . . . ~ ! ♥♥ ! ~ ........................................................... ~ jes ~ ! ♥♥ !
Five products in one, the DG834GT combines an ADSL modem, router, 10/100 LAN switch, 108 ... more
Mbps Super G access point and SPI Double Firewall. It gives you untethered continuous connectivity to your network resources and the Internet and allows you to sh...
Postage & Packaging: £4.87 Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days...
Advantages: Easy to use, good security features, lots of extras for thse who want to use them Disadvantages: Not the cheapest, documentation might not be great in the event of problems
Advantages: Easy to use, good security features, lots of extras for thse who want to use them Disadvantages: Not the cheapest, documentation might not be great in the event of problems
Jun 1st, 2007
very helpful by (100%):
