These are products I thought were cool that I have seen, seen on the internet and it looked interesting, tried, recommend, or I think would come in handy.
Pretty much every product has pros and cons. Linksys routers usually come with less-than-perfect firmware, however, they are usually flashable with dd-wrt enterprise-class firmware (free), if you have the determination and guts to go through with it - read ALL the documentation and recommended forum posts on the subject before starting, maybe twice.
Linksys adapters (especially wireless) consistently come with the worst software. Linksys doesn't seem to update/fix the drivers once they are released, but they do update firmware in routers regularly. Actually for any wireless card you should avoid using the drivers that come with the card and instead use the drivers that come with XP/Vista/7 if you can - the Windows Wireless Zero Config Manager or whatever is built into windows. Windows XP and above should recognize the card immediately as a wireless card. If you still need drivers, try getting it from Microsoft if you can. Then try downloading the drivers from Linksys to get the latest (probably the same anyway). If you must, then use the cd's drivers.
Linksys makes the best routers software-design-wise and feature-wise. I like them after they have been out a while where most of the firmware bugs are shaken out.
With wireless-n, the farther away you are, the faster you go. Wireless-n can still connect to b/g. since n is MIMO at 72.2Mbps/antenna (minimum 2 antennas, max 4), multiply by the number of antennas to get your transfer rate. On the WRT600N there are 2 antennas, so 144Mbps.
| STBC/1 antenna | 72.2Mbps |
| 2 antennas | 144.4Mbps |
| 3 antennas | 216.6Mbps |
| 4 antennas | 288.8Mbps |
the following information is from a table in a wikipedia article. more detailed information is available on that page. most networks detault to wither n or g.
| 802.11 designation | gross bit rate (Mbps) | net bit rate (Mbps) | indoor range |
|---|---|---|---|
| a | 54 | 20 | 50' |
| b | 11 | 5 | 150' |
| g | 54 | 22 | 150' |
| n (draft 2.0) | 600 | 50-144 | 229' |
Draft-n standard to be turned into regular standard n around June 2009 according to wikipedia article. What this means is either new hardware or new firmware & new adapter cd's/driver downloads some time after the standard is released. It could be 2 years till you see patches & new products released after 2009.
Wireless 802.11a/b/g/n (Wi-Fi) standard range routers
The more antennas you have, the faster your transfer will be. Also, MIMO for a/b/g is supposed to improve transfer speed. However, if your broadband connection is only going 1.5Mbps, none of this may make much difference anyway at such low data rates (anybody done any testing? 802.11b should be fine), and a single-antenna less-featured card should do fine - that is, if you are only using it for internet access. File transfers between computers on your private/local network could use the extra help. 802.11b=11Mbps, 802.11g/a=54Mbps, 802.11n(draft)=200Mbps (not 300Mbps like companies advertise). 802.11n(draft) is not a finished standard yet (as of December 2007), so you may need different 802.11n hardware (for routers maybe only a FW update) when the standard is finally released if you buy draft-n hardware now. 108Mbps is not a standard. Wireless-N routers (draft-N) are starting to replace wired networks in companies by the droves.
Top Global MB6800 Wi-Fi cell modem router, available from nextag $190-350
8/29/2009. 3G/4G cell USB modem socket. 4 wired ethernet connections + 802.11b/g WiFi. plug your cell USB modem into this device, and connect your computers to it. got more wired computers? get a 5-port switch or a 16-port switch if you really want to load it down that much.
Apple Airport Extreme Dual-band base station (router) $180, triband:extreme base station plus:upgrade kit quickertek.com $130, PoE kit macwireless.com $39.98 (splitter kit for those with a PoE switch) $69.98 (injector+splitter full kit) $39.98 (injector kit)
3/17/2010.
(1) usb socket for apple storage sharing, (1) 10/100/1000 WAN, (3) LAN 10/100/1000.
Apparently a very good router that doesn't drop connections like the Linksys.
mainly for apple networking, but works for PC IP networking.
I you install quicktime/bonjour, I have had problems with older mDNSResponder service locking up my XP networking, so I have to kill it and then suddenly all network apps are unblocked (not anymore, they fixed it if you update quicktime).
"The [Apple] Bonjour service is only necessary for accessing printers and hard drives from the [router].
For IP networking you don't need to install a thing." - Drahliana.
I will say that if you are trying to install the external antenna on a wall, the job looks rather dicey since you have *2* things to keep in your hands, and you need a 3rd hand to steady yourself against the wall(?), so you may want to stick with the built-in antenna in this case.
The wireless n:nQuicky usb antenna enhancement is $150 and supports WEP64/128 and WPA/WPA2, but I can't see mounting that thing on a wall - I think it's made for a desk.
Linksys E1000 IEEE 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz 300Mbps 2T2R Wireless Router $79.99, available from newegg <$150
4 ports. wifi protected setup.
Linksys E2000 Selectable Dual-Band IEEE 802.3/3u/3ab, IEEE 802.11a/b/g, IEEE802.11n Gigabit Advanced Wireless Router $119.99, available from newegg $100
4x10/100/1000M. up to 300Mbps wireless.
Linksys E2100L IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11b/g/n Linux OS Wireless Router with USB Built-in AV Media Server $119.99, available from newegg <$120
Linux OS for customizable control. (2) external detachable antennas. UPnP AV media server. 4x10/100M. up to 300Mbps wireless.
Linksys E3000 IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n 2.4GHz / 5GHz simultaneous Dual-Band Gigabit Wireless Router with USB Built-in UPnP AV Media Server $179.99, available from newegg <$180
4x10/100/1000M. 6 internal antennas. usb port for centralized file sharing. UPnP AV Media Server. optimized performance made for smoother media streaming.
Linksys WRT54G3G-AT Linksys Wireless-G WRT54G3G-AT Router for Mobile Broadband (PC[MCIA] Cell card), available from nextag $190
8/29/2009. for PCMCIA-card(old) AT&T Network. I don't know how new(buggy) this device is. all of their newer routers seem to be black instead of white(?). only accepts the old large PC[MCIA] card, which is still available.
Linksys WRT54G3G-ST Linksys Wireless-G WRT54G3G-ST Router for Mobile Broadband (PC[MCIA] Cell card), available from nextag $190
8/29/2009. for PCMCIA-card(old) Sprint PowerVision Network. I don't know how new(buggy) this device is. all of their newer routers seem to be black instead of white(?). only accepts the old large PC[MCIA] card, which is still available.
Linksys WRT54G3G-VN Linksys Wireless-G WRT54G3G-VN Router for Mobile Broadband (PC[MCIA] Cell card), available from nextag $199-280
8/29/2009. for PCMCIA-card(old) Verizon Wireless Network. I don't know how new(buggy) this device is. all of their newer routers seem to be black instead of white(?). only accepts the old large PC[MCIA] card, which is still available.
D-Link DIR-825 IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11a/g, IEEE802.11n Draft 2.0 Xtreme N Dual Band Gigabit Router - Retail, available from newegg $130
8/29/2009. WPA & WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access) Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) - PIN & PBC. 1 x 10/100/1000M WAN; 4 x 10/100/1000M LAN.
BELKIN F5D8232-4 IEEE 802.3/3u/3ab, IEEE 11b/g, IEEE 802.11n Draft Wireless Router - Retail, available from newegg <$180+7
8/29/2009. 1x10/100/1000Mbps WAN and 4x10/100/1000 LAN jacks. 3x3 radio design. draft-n but also works with the upcoming 802.11n standard. power supply is cheap though and absolutely requires a surge protector or it dies from spikes. get a Tripplite ISOBAR to be safe...
LINKSYS WRT54G2 IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11b/g Wireless-G Broadband Router - Retail, available from newegg <$60
8/29/2009. new style black. 2 antennas. Security features: Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) Firewall, Internet Policy Security key bits: Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), WEP, Wireless MAC Filtering
LINKSYS WRT54GL IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11b/g Wireless-G Broadband Router - Retail, available from newegg $60
8/29/2009. old style blue and black. 1x10/100 WAN, 4x10/100 LAN. Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) Firewall (!), Internet Policy Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), WEP, Wireless MAC Filtering. Ports: 1x10/100M WAN,4x10/100M LAN. Secure Easy Setup button. Uses Open-Source GPL-Licensed software. source code is available. You would think it would be cheaper than the $50 G with free code!
LINKSYS WRT54GS IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11b/g Wireless-G Broadband Router with SpeedBooster - Retail, available from nextag $30-59
8/29/2009. old style blue and black. 1x10/100 WAN, 4x10/100 LAN. good basic cheap wireless router for those who don't need a lot of speed, maybe need to just wifi their laptop to the internet. their next-to-bottom-of-the-line linksys wireless router. been around a long time. You can block a fair number of ports that you set up (only so many port types/names though), lock out everything but your wireless adapters & laptop, open ports (DMZ) for gaming, etc. Remember not to hook up your router until your broadband connection is set up and working first. You will probably need to talk with your ISP's tech support to get your router configured to work with their DHCP servers correctly (setting up the domain, etc). I suggest turning on NAT (Network Address Translation) in the firewall - it is off by default - I don't know why. The S on the model number just means it adds Speedbooster, a linksys-only feature you probably don't need try for the WRT54G instead and save $20?
8/29/2009. old style blue and black. Security:64/128-Bit WEP, WPA (no WPA2?). IEEE 802.3/3u (1x10/100Mbps jack), IEEE 802.11b/g
8/29/2009. old style blue and black. useful for those who wish to flash another firmware (3MB max) - which also voids warranty and ends support, and if done wrong can turn router into a brick paperweight. Security:64/128-Bit TKIP,AES. SPI firewall, wireless MAC filtering. IEEE 802.3/3u (1x10/100Mbps jack), IEEE 802.11b/g
Wireless 802.11a/b/g/n Long/Extended Range (Wi-Fi) routers
MIMO gives range and speed.
it gets faster the farther you get away, and picks up on minute signals.
There are 2 bands of wireless-N: Overcrowded 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
It may be worth it to spend the extra money to get something that works in both bands.
check the linksys site to make sure which band your router+adapter works in.
Linksys is going to a new style of router. Newer isn't always better (as reliable).
According to what I have read about wireless N, any wireless N solution is considered long range (?), including Linksys WMP300N (PCI 2.4GHz only?), WUSB300N (USB 2.4GHz only?), WPC300N (PC Card 2.4GHz only?), WEC600N (ExpressCard dual-band), WPC600N (PC Card dual-band) adapters.
The WMP600N is out now.
There are a few companies that are going to make adapters allowing the use of PCMCIA cards in an Express Card slot, but none are available yet.
stay away from devices based on the Atheros chip, e.g. NETGEAR WNDA3100.
Linksys E4200 Wireless N Router Maximum Performance Dual-Band IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n 450Mbps, available from newegg $134.99+4.99, linksys $179.99
8/17/2011. 4x10/100/1000 LAN switch ports, 1x10/100/1000 WAN, WEP, WPA, WPA2, 6 antennas. has inline power brick instead of wall adapter, so is a little clumsy for wiring closets. does not achieve full rated 1000Mbps speed because of processor speed (no commercial home router does). Not sure if it or anything else gets to full 450Mbps. next standard (WiGig) is 7Gbps... where are we going to get processors for that?
Cisco Valet M20 IEEE 802.11b/g/n 300Mbps Gigabit Wireless HotSpot Router, available from newegg <$150
parental controls. no-hassle guest access for gaming, phones. 4 ports. wifi protected setup.
TP-LINK TL-WR541G IEEE 802.11b/g eXtended Range 54M Wireless Router - Retail , available from newegg $50+$8shipping
people like this router.
Linksys WRT100 b/g router, available from ebay $90+shipping
This one is king of the ranges for b/g. goes through 3 floors from basement to attic and still has good signal (2-3 bars).
NETGEAR WNDR3300 IEEE 802.11a/b/g, IEEE802.11n Draft RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router - Retail, available from newegg $100
8 antennas. up to 23 free channels. less interference. requires fw update to DD-WRT to fix problem with resetting during long downloads. you are stuck with RADIO_OFF, 2.4GHz b/g/n, 2.4GHz b/g+5GHz a/n. some say admin UI needs improvement. after the FW update it is said that it is a stable router.
D-Link DIR-628 IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11a/b/g, IEEE802.11n Draft RangeBooster N Dual Band Router - Retail, available from newegg $90
Network Address Translation (NAT) Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) WPA, WPA2. 1 x 10/100M WAN; 4 x 10/100M LAN.
LINKSYS WRT610N IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11a/b/g, IEEE802.11n Draft Simultaneous Dual-N Band Wireless Router - Retail, available from newegg $196
their top-of-the-line router (and also newest). 64/128-Bit WEP, WPA, WPA2. no reviews yet. Ports:1x10/100M WAN,4x10/100M LAN [Linksys site claims 4 gigabit ports], 2.4GHz/5GHz. USB 2.0. LELA software and Setup Wizard require up-to-date Windows XP, Vista, or Vista 64-bit Edition, Mac OS X 10.4 or higher. For optimum performance, newegg recommends Linksys Dual-Band Wireless-N adapters (I do too if you can manage to get one that has range and works on a desktop). SPI firewall.
LINKSYS WRT600N IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11a/b/g, IEEE802.11n Draft Wireless-N Dual Band Gigabit Router - Retail, available from newegg <$190
their top-of-the-line linksys wireless router. MIMO. old-style. signal strength isn't great through 1 wall, but it works great off of small signals. rated same as D-link DIR655 but with 5GHz. Pair this with a Wireless-N adapter. 2 antennas, so 144Mbps transfer rate probably.
LINKSYS WAP4400N Wireless-N Access Point with Power Over Ethernet - Retail, available from newegg $155
MIMO 2x3. Linksys has dropped this item from its catalog. They now have no Wireless N access point. They have also dropped the associated WPC4400 PCMCIA adapter. But you can still buy it. Draft IEEE802.11n, IEEE802.11g/b, IEEE802.3, IEEE802.3u, IEEE802.3af (Power Over Ethernet), 802.1x (Security Authentication), 802.11i - Ready (Security WPA2), 802.11e - Ready (Wireless QoS). WEP 64bit/128bit, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, WPA-ENT, WPA2-ENT
Wireless Connection Control: MAC-Based
SSID Broadcast Enable/Disable
IEEE 802.1X support. SNMP Version 1,2c,3 device management.
LINKSYS WRT350N Draft 802.11n, 802.11b/g, 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3x, 802.3ab, USB 2.0 Wireless-N Gigabit Router with Storage Link - Retail, available from newegg <$180
MIMO. old-style. 2.4GHz only. WEP, WPA, WPA2 128 bit. built-in media server.
LINKSYS WRT330N 802.11b/g, 802.3, 802.3u, Draft 802.11n Wireless-N Gigabit Gaming Router - Retail, available from newegg <$180
MIMO. old-style. 2.4GHz only. WEP, TKIP, AES Security key bits: 64, 128. works with Vista.
LINKSYS WRT300N Draft 802.11n, 802.11b/g, 802.3, 802.3u Wireless-N Broadband Router - Retail, available from newegg<$130+7
MIMO. old-style. 2.4GHz only. SPI firewall. VPN Pass-thru. Up to 256-bit wireless encryption 64, 128, 256 Security Key Bits.
LINKSYS WRT100 IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11b/g,MIMO RangePlus Wireless Router - Retail, available from newegg <$90
old style. good reviews. this is a long range wireless router. MIMO. "Router is in basement and signal in the attic three floors up is very strong." "I bought it for someone who couldnt get a signal from their basement to the 3rd floor of there[sic] house, and even at its weakest point you get 2-3 bars of signal.". This is not a wireless N device despite Linksys specs. antennas are not removeable. many users found that using the cd was not necessary.
Linksys WRT54GR Wireless-B/G Broadband Router with RangeBooster Technology, available from nextag $60-84
discontinued. think of it like the old wrt54G[S/L] except a 2X range-enhanced version. This would give you one more bar, since each bar is 2X the previous bar.
Zonet ZSR1134WE IEEE 802.3/3u, IEEE 802.11b/g Wireless Broadband Router - Retail, available from newegg $22+8shipping
really small router. requires a router reboot for every small change. if too many changes, it won't work. they may fix the firmware.
Wireless 802.11a/b/g/n (Wi-Fi) standard range adapters
The more antennas you have, the faster your transfer will be.
Also, MIMO for a/b/g is supposed to improve transfer speed.
However, if your broadband connection is only going 1.5Mbps, none of this may make much difference anyway at such low data rates (anybody done any testing? b should be fine), and a single-antenna less-featured card should do fine - that is, if you are only using it for internet access.
File transfers between computers on your private/local network could use the extra help.
802.11b=11Mbps, 802.11g/a=54Mbps, 802.11n(draft)=200Mbps (not 300Mbps like companies advertise).
802.11n(draft) is not a finished standard yet (as of December 2007), so you may need different 802.11n hardware (for routers maybe only a FW update) when the standard is finally released if you buy draft-n hardware now.
108Mbps is not a standard.
Wireless-N routers (draft-N) are starting to replace wired networks in companies by the droves.
Recommend you do NOT use the software on the CD for XP/Vista/7. If you absolutely have to install drivers and windows prompts you, just tell windows to use drivers from the cdrom and insert the cd. close the setup wizard.
Linksys AE1000 IEEE 802.11a/b/g, IEEE802.11n Draft USB 2.0 Wireless Adapter WPA/WPA2 Personal WPA /WPA2 Enterprise
Dual band USB adapter $69.99, available from newegg <$70
dual band, 2 antennas.
LINKSYS WMP600N IEEE 802.11a/b/g, IEEE 802.11n Draft 2.0 PCI Wireless Adapter with Dual-Band WEP, WPA & WPA2 Personal, WPA & WPA2 Enterprise - Retail $79.99, available from newegg <$80
like all n, MIMO. 2 external antennas. assuming linksys' track record remains the same, seems to have good reviews except for range (but that may be the router). windows 7 64-bit:"...download the drivers from the web site. The cd will brick your system..."
LINKSYS WMP300N 32-bit PCI Interface High-speed single-band Wireless-N Wireless Adapter - Retail, available from newegg <$90
like all n, MIMO. assuming linksys' track record remains the same, I hope this is also a good card. comes with a large desktop tri-cabled external tri-antenna unit. given my experience with the Linksys External Antenna Stand, the cables are probably not easy to screw on - on the antenna stand I bought the brass(?) sleeve practically sticks to the cable, so you have to rotate the entire cable assembly & stand to get the threads screwed in. and there are 3 of these. not possible to rotate. it may be that once you install it you may want to leave it there. 3 antennas I think, so probably 217Mbps transfer rate over wireless N.
LINKSYS WUSB600N IEEE 802.11a/b/g,draft 2.0n USB 2.0 Wireless-N USB Network Adapter with Dual-Band - Retail, available from newegg $70, bestbuy $70
Security features: WEP, WPA, and WPA2 Security key bits: Up to 256-bit encryption. If you are using XP or Vista, you should be using the built-in networking drivers windows has or at least let windows manage your wireless networks. You will have less problems. people complain about problems with the cd and drivers.
LINKSYS WMP54G 32-bit PCI Interface Wireless-G Adapter with SpeedBooster - Retail, available at newegg <$50
8/29/2009. single antenna.
seems to be a pretty good card (not susceptible to static and insertions/removals like the Motorola WPCI 810G), but it is not a long distance card - range doesn't seem to go through 3 rooms in our apartment, one of which just being a hollow wood door.
I have a linksys router.
it is incapable of connecting to WEP without the SSID broadcasting being on.
drivers crash on startup on windows 2000 (surprisingly, still runs, but really annoying to press ok 0-2 times).
TRENDnet TEW-424UB USB 2.0 Wireless Adapter - Retail, available at newegg $20
8/29/2009. 54Mbps. has a flip antenna built-in. WEP, WPA/WPA2, and PSK. "connected with 68% signal". 50% users gave it top level rating.
Airlink101 AWLH3028 MIMO 802.11g Wireless PCI Adapter, available from airlink101 $40?
8/29/2009. 1-antenna PCI card(54Mbps). Airlink101 cards appear to work fine with Linksys WRT54G routers, but I do not know about other routers.
LINKSYS WPC600N Wireless-N(draft)/b/g/a Dual-band Notebook Adapter - Retail, available from newegg $53
8/29/2009. as with all n, MIMO.
PC Card.
dual band 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
Does not work good on Toshiba Sattelite laptops.
runs better using the linksys software - install the software before installing the card!
Linksys Wi-Fi SW does not retain connection settings.
some say 1 bar in windows zero config without software. others reported great range with software, and immediately found their G routers.
Buffalo Technology Airstation Nfiniti Dual-Band WIRELESS-N USB Notebook Adapter, available from nextag $38-55
8/29/2009. MIMO. no reviews to look at, so I don't know if this is good, but it's out there.
It would be interesting to see if this is a better adapter than the Linksys equivelant...
LINKSYS WPC300N Wireless-N Notebook Adapter - Retail, available from nextag $15-140
8/29/2009. MIMO. 2.4GHz band only. PC Card. great range. DO NOT use the driver disk for anything other than downloading the pcmcia driver. "Use the [Windows] wireless zero config manager and you will not lose your wireless settings. Update the driver through MS." "Blows Wireless-G out of the water." "Works with my Apple Airport Extreme 802.11n router in 2.4 GHz band.". I would recommend this card, but beware the software.
Wireless 802.11a/b/g/n Long/Extended Range (Wi-Fi) adapters
carries the Alfa line of long range products, such as 2W wireless-N adapters. most adapters only do 0.37W.
ESTeem product catalog includes a WLANCg 350'-range and WLANC11b 1000'-range PCMCIA wireless g card.
8/29/2009. not available through normal purchasing methods like nextag or newegg. 1-509-735-9092
looks like that old laptop may be good for something after all. or you can just get a PCMCIA/Express adapter.
8/29/2009.
range 1200'.
like all n, MIMO.
seems to be great from reviews.
? bands, probably 2.4GHz for this kind of range.
"270 all the time.
Move closer for 300.
No fluctuation or drops for 16 hours.
Runs at about 1/4 the heat.".
Vista driver is BETA.
8/29/2009.
range 1200'.
like all n, MIMO.
seems to be great from reviews.
? bands, probably 2.4GHz for this kind of range.
"270 all the time.
Move closer for 300.
No fluctuation or drops for 16 hours.
Runs at about 1/4 the heat.".
Vista driver is BETA.
BELKIN F5D8073 N Wireless USB 2.0 Adapter - Retail, available from newegg <$70, nextag $49-80, belkin $70
8/29/2009.
range 1200'.
like all n, MIMO.
seems to be great from reviews.
? bands, probably 2.4GHz for this kind of range.
Vista driver is BETA.
D-Link DWA160 IEEE 802.11a/g,Draft 2.0n USB 2.0 Xtreme N Dual Band Adapter Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA & WPA2) 802.1x - Retail , available from newegg $67
8/29/2009. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA & WPA2) 802.1x. usually good reviews.
Linksys WMP600N Dual-Band draft 2.0 wireless-n PCI Adapter - Retail, available from newegg <$80, shopblt.com $72, insight.com $75.99
8/29/2009.
802.11b/g/n.
sales says this only has a range of 100', however, other say that it is your router which gives you the range.
2 short antennas, which means it only goes up to 144.4Mbps, but some are saying they are getting 270Mbps out of it.
Recognized automatically by windows 7 (don't use driver disc on windows 7).
Uses Ralink RT2860 chipset: you can download drivers from Ralink website.
Signal strength on 5GHz band is very low, but speed is good.
NETGEAR WN111 IEEE 802.11n draft specification, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g 2.4 GHz USB 2.0 Wireless Adapter for - Retail, available from newegg $65
8/29/2009.
Up to 300Mbps Data Rates Wi-Fi protected access (WPA2-PSK, WPA-PSK) Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) 64-bit, 128-bit encryption. works thru several walls (albeit slowly) with netgear routers, so I assume might work good with other routers? runs hot.
can run very fast.
should be used with a USB extension to prevent overheating the connector too much.
slow to connect.
some say SW on disk works good, some say it is bad.
use windows instead.
no x64 drivers will be developed, but windows works just fine.
8/29/2009. for going through many walls/floors or long distances
8/29/2009. for going through many walls/floors or long distances
8/2/2009. 802.11b/g. up to 8dBi gain. WEP, WPA, WPA2 & AES security.
Wireless-g To USB 2.0 Adapter, IOGear GWU523, available from cyberguys $30+10, nextag $27-40, newegg $27+6
8/2/2009. up to 980' range. sounds pretty good for a small adaper like this. gets warm.
Linksys WUSB100 RangePlus Wireless-N Network USB 2.0 Adapter, available from newegg <$65
8/29/2009. as with all n, MIMO.
Linksys WPC100 RangePlus PCMCIA Wireless-N Notebook Adapter, available from newegg $40
8/29/2009. as with all n, MIMO.
Cisco WPC200 Wireless-B/G Business Notebook Adapter with RangeBooster, available from nextag $75-86
8/29/2009. 2X range. PC[MCIA] card. works best with WAP200 series access points.
Cisco WPC4400 Wireless-N PCMCIA Business Notebook Adapter with RangeBooster, available from nextag $40-115
8/29/2009.
2X range.
works best with WAP200 series access points.
good card for Toshiba Sattelite notebooks, but apparently not all notebooks (try not to use the driver cd if you don't have to - it may help to use only windows' wireless zero config mgr user that had the failure installed the cd). great range.
It sticks out of the computer, so you have to be very careful not to damage the range booster part of the card by putting too much weight on it.
Cisco WMP200 Wireless-B/G Business Notebook Adapter with RangeBooster, available from nextag $70-109, cdw $90
8/29/2009. 2X range. PCI card. works best with WAP200 series access points.
Cisco WUSB200 USB 2.0 Wireless-B/G Business Notebook Adapter with RangeBooster, available from nextag $75-109
8/29/2009. 2X range. works best with WAP200 series access points.
Wireless 802.11b/g/n Range Extenders/Repeaters (Wi-Fi)
see if you have any consistent success with any of these. I didn't with the linksys.
Linksys RE1000 Wireless-n Range Extender, up to 270Mbps. - Retail, available from newegg $75+6
2x antenna repeater. 802.11b/g/n. 10/100 ethernet bridge port/jack.
HAWKING HWREG1 Wireless-G Range Extender - Retail, available from newegg $75+6
single antenna repeater. 802.11b/g. I have not had success with the older Linksys range entender, but you can try this one and see if it works - tell me if it does.
BELKIN F5D7132 Wireless G Universal Range Extender - Retail, available from newegg $40
single antenna repeater. 802.11b/g. I have not had success with the older Linksys range entender, but you can try this one and see if it works - tell me if it does.
Wireless 802.11a/b/g/n Antennas (Wi-Fi)
Hawking HAI8DD USB 2.0 high-gain Dish Antenna, available from cyberguys $80+10, nextag $41, newegg $42+6
802.11b/g. up to 8dBi gain. WEP, WPA, WPA2 & AES security.
Antennas, available at wlanmall
for when you need to go farther than normal. you may need a higher power (long range) card. check your specs first.
should plug fine into most b/g wireless cards. 7dBi gain. for this price, you could have gotten an engenius $20+8 ultra long range card. known to work with Linksys WMP54GS,WMP54G wireless cards,WRV54G router.
Should work with just about any b/g wireless card (not sure if it would work with a). Features: Relocate your Wireless-B or Wireless-G antennas to avoid obstacles and improve signal strength. Easy to install and use, no config necessary.
Specifications: Connector: one Reverse SMA (R-SMA), one SMA Cable Length: 6 feet. known to work with Linksys WRV54G, WMP54GS, WMP54G, WET54G, WET54GS5, HGA7S (High Gain Antenna). can be ceiling, wall, or table mounted.
LINKSYS HGA7T High Gain Antenna Kit for R-TNC Connectors, available from newegg $43+7(out of stock), nextag $32
should plug fine into most wireless cards. 7dBi gain. for this price, you could have gotten an engenius $20+8 ultra long range card. Known to work with Linksys WRT54GS, WRT54G, WAP54G, BEFW11S4, WAP11.
LINKSYS AS2TNC Antenna Stand for TNC Connectors, available from newegg $16+7 (out of stock), partsstore $22 (phaseout)
Features: Relocate your Wireless-B or Wireless-G Access Point's antennas to avoid obstacles and improve signal strength. Easy to install and use, no config necessary
. Specifications: Connector Two Reverse TNC, Two TNC Cable Length: 6 feet. Known to work with Linksys WRT54GS, WRT54G, WAP54G, BEFW11S4, WAP11, HGA7T (High Gain Antennas). can be ceiling, wall, or table mounted.
Wireless devices & gadgets
HP Wireless Printing Kit, available from hp $100
wireless USB key, wireless USB printer dock. white. 802.11g. no obvious antenna.
Wireless Spectrum Analyzers
usb 2.0 Ubiquity Networks 2.4GHz AirView2-EXT Wi-Fi Spectrum Analyzer, available from cyberguys $69.95+$10shipping
for the 2.4GHz range. 900MHz version also available. helps you identify interference (microwave ovens, etc). includes antenna (laptop-clip).
usb 2.0 Wi-Spy Spectrum Analyzer, available from thinkgeek $200
helps you identify interference (microwave ovens, etc). Software: Chanalyzer 2.0
usb 2.0 Wi-Spy 2.4x Spectrum Analyzer, available from thinkgeek $400
for the 2.4GHz range. helps you identify interference (microwave ovens, etc). Software: Chanalyzer 2.0
Wireless Ethernet Bridge (wired-to-802.11b/g/n, Wi-Fi-to-wired)
solution I've always been looking for. Need a wireless connection but have a wired device like a workgroup laser printer? try one of these.
Linksys WES610N 4-port 300Mbps Dual-Band Wireless-N Ethernet Bridge, available from LinksysByCisco $99.99, newegg $99.99
bridge between wired and wireless 802.11g ethernet: acts like an ethernet cable between router and devices except that it has a web server at an IP address.
web interface.
cd setup.
DHCP or static/fixed IP selectable.
Dual-band N.
supports encryption to 256-bit WPA2.
4x10/100 port.
can be used with a ethernet/network printer that has a print server or PS3 or xbox.
use with a switch to get more ports.
Linksys WET610N 1-port 300Mbps Dual-Band Wireless-N Ethernet Bridge, available from LinksysByCisco $99.99, newegg $87
web interface.
bridge between wired and wireless 802.11g ethernet: acts like an ethernet cable between router and devices except that it has a web server at an IP address.
cd setup.
DHCP or static/fixed IP selectable.
Dual-band N.
supports encryption to 256-bit WPA2.
1x10/100 port.
can be used with a ethernet/network printer that has a print server or PS3 or xbox.
use with a switch to get more ports.
ESTeem Model 195Eg 802.11g 54Mbps Unlicensed wireless ethernet modem, available at esteem
wired ethernet-to-wireless.
designed for the rigors of the Industrial, Public Safety, and Federal markets.
802.11b/g, 54 Mbps, 5mi range (7mile range line of sight), 1W RF output.
2.4GHz International unlicensed operation.
optional serial port available.
MESH networking.
direct pole mounting.
POE - 802.3af.
redundant self-healing network architecture.
optional dual 10/100 ethernet ports.
Encryption: AES, TKIP, 128/64-bit WEP, WPA2, WPA PSK, WPA Enterprise.
802.1x/EAP Authentication, Access Control List(ACL), 802.11i compatible.
can be configured as an AP router.
antenna is on a small pole separate from unit.
not available through normal purchasing methods like nextag. 1-509-735-9092
product catalogincludes a 350' and 1000' PCMCIA wireless g card.
ESTeem Model 195Es 200kbps 900MHz Unlicensed wireless ethernet modem, available at esteem
wired ethernet-to-wireless.
designed for the rigors of the Industrial, Public Safety, and Federal markets.
FHSS (Frequency-hopping-spread-spectrum), 10+mile range, 1W RF output, up to 200kbps data rate, operates on 900MHz band.
RS-232 serial or ethernet.
antenna is attached to unit.
Unlicensed operation.
extended temperature specifications.
POE cable.
direct outdoor pole mountable.
also has client mode.
Encryption: TKIP, 64/128-bit WEP, AES.
Access Control List(ACL).
1-509-735-9092
not available through normal purchasing methods like nextag. 1-509-735-9092
product catalogincludes a 350' and 1000' PCMCIA wireless g card.
Trendnet TEW-687GA 450Mbps Ethernet port wireless N Gaming Adapter, available from LinksysByCisco $129.99, newegg $102
bridge between wired and wireless 802.11g ethernet.
web interface.
cd setup.
DHCP or static IP selectable.
2.4GHz 802.11b/g/n.
64/128-bit WEP, WPA/WPA2-PSK, WPS.
1x10/100/1000Mbps ports (DHCP or static IP, doesn't matter).
3 antennas.
can be used with a wired ethernet laser/inkjet printer that has a print server to make it wireless.
use with a switch to get more ports.
Linksys-by-Cisco dual-band-N Wireless Ethernet Bridges (gaming and otherwise), available from linksysbycisco
bridge between wired and wireless 802.11b/g/n ethernet.
web interface to configure.
WPA and WPA2 encryption. WPS.
10/100 ethernet port.
up to 300Mbps.
use with a switch to get more ports.
Linksys WET200 RangeMax Business Wireless-g Ethernet Bridge, available from cdw $123
this prodduct may be discontinued.
bridge between wired and wireless 802.11g ethernet.
web interface.
supports encryption to 256-bit WPA2. 5-port 10/100 ethernet switch.
use with a switch to get more ports.
US Robotics 5432 Wireless MAXg Gaming Ethernet Bridge, available from cdw $86
bridge between wired and wireless 802.11g ethernet.
web interface.
supports encryption to WPA2.
1x10/100 ethernet port.
use with a switch to get more ports.
Lantronix WBG1000 802.11b/g Wireless to Ethernet Bridge, available from cdw $260
bridge between wired and wireless 802.11b/g ethernet.
web or telnet interface.
supports encryption to WPA2.
1x10/100 ethernet port.
use with a switch to get more ports.
Mobile Broadband Routers
you plug in your 3G/4G cell dongles or cell cards into these things, depending on the model usually there is a usb jack for that.
wireless broadband routers, available from newegg.com $99-249, nextag.com $55-352
PoE Routers and PoE kits
these are kits to give your generic/specific router PoE capabilities, or a specific router PoE kit.
Apple makes a solid router with the exception of its semi-weak antenna, so I am including a (very expensive $124) 3-antenna enhancement for it.Netgear
Apple Airport Extreme Dual-band base station (router) $180, triband:extreme base station plus:upgrade kit quickertek.com $130, PoE kit macwireless.com $39.98 (splitter kit for those with a PoE switch) $69.98 (injector+splitter full kit) $39.98 (injector kit)
3/17/2010.
(1) usb socket for apple storage sharing, (1) 10/100/1000 WAN, (3) LAN 10/100/1000.
Apparently a very good router that doesn't drop connections like the Linksys.
mainly for apple networking, but works for PC IP networking.
I you install quicktime/bonjour, I have had problems with older mDNSResponder service locking up my XP networking, so I have to kill it and then suddenly all network apps are unblocked (not anymore, they fixed it if you update quicktime).
"The [Apple] Bonjour service is only necessary for accessing printers and hard drives from the [router].
For IP networking you don't need to install a thing." - Drahliana.
I will say that if you are trying to install the external antenna on a wall, the job looks rather dicey since you have *2* things to keep in your hands, and you need a 3rd hand to steady yourself against the wall(?), so you may want to stick with the built-in antenna in this case.
The wireless n:nQuicky usb antenna enhancement is $150 and supports WEP64/128 and WPA/WPA2, but I can't see mounting that thing on a wall - I think it's made for a desk.
LINKSYS WRT160N dd-wrt yes (1.1, 1.0, 3.0), no (2.0), no activation, available from newegg.com <$100 limit 5, linksys wappoe12 PoE kitnextag.com $25-65
100Mbps LAN/WAN
LINKSYS WRT610N dd-wrt yes, no activation, available from newegg.com $180+$3*, volume savings up to 17%, linksys wappoe12 PoE kitnextag.com $25-65
gigabit LAN/WAN. it is said this gets excellent range. dual band router.
LevelOne PIS-3100 High Power PoE Adapter Kit (30W) - Retail, available from newegg.com $102.99+1.99
for devices up to 24W.
4XEM PoE Kit with Power Injector and PoE Splitter, available from cdw.com $45.99, $
linksys WAPPOE12 PoE kit, available from linksys wappoe12 PoE kitnextag.com $25-65, newegg discontinued this item
avoid the following cards: as they say vista certified but do not fully support vista:
Atheros AR500x (HP and Dell systems (Dell 1515 WLAN half mini-Card))
Broadcom 4321AG (HP and Dell systems)
Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABG, 4965AGN (HP systems)
D-Link DWA-140
TrippLite ISOBARs
ISOBARs are the best in surge protection.
you should know that the Joules rating is one of the things you look at in a surge suppressor - the higher the better there is an 8-outlet that does 2850 Joules.
other things to know about are clamping voltage, etc, but ISOBAR shines in that respect.
One thing about an ISOBAR compared to other surge protector strips is that it its case is made with metal, so it is not very likely to cause a fire (as many a plastic one have been known to do).
A power conditioner adds an extra level of protection to your system. If I remember right, it protects from brownouts and the like.
TrippLite ISOBAR H10DBS, available from neewegg.com $100, nextag.com $60-272
3570 Joules. Power Conditioner / Surge Protector, 8 outlets, 8ft cord, (4 outlets spaced for adapters), coax protection
TrippLite ISOBARs, available from newegg.com $50-400,
wi-fi analyzers
Canary Wireless Digital Hotspotter HS-20 (small handheld), available from newegg.com $50