Help new router

D

db

Joined
Oct 3, 1998
Messages
3,762
What should I be looking for in a new router. Just need something for the home. Kids have Ipods, laptops and we have a Ipad also.On another related note any network name suggestions? :)
 
Well db, what I'd do is what IS did when IN bought mine. I went to a Home Improvement store and talk with someone in the tool area of the store. Now, I'm not sure what ya wanting ta do but I hope this is some help.
 
First, stay away from Netgear, I have had nothing but issues with this brand. Most of the new routers are 150mpbs single or dual band. Go with single band to save a few dollars if the internet traffic isnt too heavy, if everyone is downloading stuff at the same time a dual band would be better. I would recommend a Linksys or Cisco. Medialink on Amazon seems to be very popular with 5k+ positive reviews.
 
I would suggest you spend a bit more to get something nicer. You may see a Netgear or Dlink out there for a good deal or rebate, but spend the extra $20 to get the Linksys instead (BTW, I believe Linksys is owned by Cisco). If you go cheap and get dropped connections or weak signals or frozen routers, you'll wish you spent the extra $20.

Also, if you're looking for the other type of router, which I doubt you are, I love my Bosch!
 
calvinw said:
I would suggest you spend a bit more to get something nicer. You may see a Netgear or Dlink out there for a good deal or rebate, but spend the extra $20 to get the Linksys instead (BTW, I believe Linksys is owned by Cisco). If you go cheap and get dropped connections or weak signals or frozen routers, you'll wish you spent the extra $20.

Also, if you're looking for the other type of router, which I doubt you are, I love my Bosch!
Click to expand...

Ha, I was thinking porter cable
 
I also heard from another guy that a Linksys is the way to go. BTW the prices of all of them are all over the place.
 
I just went with a Netgear dual band and it's working great. We have an apartment in our house and guests have told me the Internet is very good. Totally across the house from the router, numerous walls.

If I were to do it again I'd look at Asus, I've had friends tell me they're great. I tried a Linsys and it sucked, CS told "Oh well, I guess it won't work for you".
 
I tell you what. I have one. give me your shipping address and when I find the Software cd that came with it I will just give it to you. I had a cable modem and I got that so I could hook up by wireless and it worked perfect. I am using my cell phone as a hotspot so I have not been using it. I also think I paid around $100.00 or better for it too.
 
Last edited:
The effective lifespan of a wireless router is about 3-4 years tops, after that the signal gets weaker and weaker and it will start dropping any bridged device that is not hardwired. If your internet service isn't reasonably fast (20-25Mbps download, then don't go spending a fortune because it won't work faster.
Establish a budget, you can get a Linksys N600 for about $50, or if you like Netgear N600 Dual Band for the same price. I don't much care for D-Link stuff, Belkin is another brand that might offer you some economy, but I've had some Belkins go belly up after only a month out of the box. If you need any more details or help, let me know.
 
Personally, I find NetGear to be good performers. Today, you can get a good wireless SWITCH for $20~40 unless you need something special. The newer standard with the $200 wireless switches is a waste unless you are on Fiber or something truely broadband. An 802.11N capable model with dual antennas will work great on most mainstream internet home connections.

Make sure you properly setup your wireless encryption. I would hate to see someone get busted for criminal activity because someone hijacked their wireless connection.

http://www.clarkedailynews.com/special-feature-is-your-home-wireless-network-cybercrime-safe/
"A criminal can easily take advantage of an open network to distribute child pornography, gain access to your personal information, or create attacks on other computers or networks. Terrorists can use open networks as access points to inflict damages through cyber-terrorism."
 
Richard Thanks for the offer. I just looked around locally for one and will probably pick up a $70 ish Netgear router tomorrow. The guy at Best Buy was pushing a $150 one but that is more than I think I need.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top