Showing posts with label extreme n. Show all posts
Showing posts with label extreme n. Show all posts

11/03/2012

NETGEAR FR114W ProSafe 802.11b Wireless-Ready Firewall Router Review

NETGEAR FR114W ProSafe 802.11b Wireless-Ready Firewall Router
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This is an excellent router with rock solid performance. Unlike my previous Linksys BEFSR41 which needs to be reset every couple of weeks and drops game connections more often than I'd like. This one maintains game connection well. Router admin operations (most) does not drop any existing connections, unlike the Linksys which resets the router at the slightest configuration change. The SPI firewall works nicely and the latest firmware (beta as of this writing) supports UPNP (Windows Messenger Audio/Video). One nice feature is you can turn off the wireless to LAN bridge, so your roommates can surf the internet but can't physically access any machine wired directly to the router.
On the down side, the wireless signal strength (with a Netgear wireless card) is a little on the weak side. Hardly a surprise considering it's using the wireless card. You may re-consider if you need one that covers a lot of range. The telnet interface is also gone, but most people probably don't care. At one time, my router started to emit a high pitch hiss, caused by long usage of the wireless portion. I disconnected the power for a while and now it seems to be ok. Maybe they used a cheap component somewhere.
There's a different model called FR114P, essentially the same, except it lacks the wireless slot but adds a print server port. You may look into it if you don't need wireless capabilities.

Click Here to see more reviews about: NETGEAR FR114W ProSafe 802.11b Wireless-Ready Firewall Router

The Netgear FR114W cable/DSL wireless-ready router has all the office network protection features you could want. Prepared for the future with wireless-ready capability, Netgear's ProSafe 802.11b wireless-ready firewall has you covered both ways. This true firewall is broadband capable, and provides you with the utmost in business-class security--Denial of Service protection and intrusion detection using Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI), URL access and content filtering, logging, reporting, and real-time alerts. VPN pass-through maximizes network security with access control and encryption. With four auto sensing, switched LAN ports and Network Address Translation (NAT) routing, up to 253 users can access your broadband connection at the same time. Smart Wizard and Install Assistant get your network up and running in minutes, and a complete antivirus software bundle is included at no extra cost to shield your network with additional protection.

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10/22/2012

Efficient Networks 120-5871-002 Speedstream Business Class DSL Router Review

Efficient Networks 120-5871-002 Speedstream Business Class DSL Router
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Although the vendor provided excellent shipping performance and support, it turned out that the router is not accessible and consequently not configurable. There is a reset button on the back of the router which will reset the IP address to factory default, for a period of about 10 minutes. However, the router password cannot be reset, and the method of using the serial number as password (as recommended on some internet support forums) did not work, so there is no way to configure the router. I did not try to access the router via Telnet and serial cable, as this requires a special cable for just this router, which was not supplied and cannot be purchased from Siemens. Siemens does not provide any kind of technical support for routers which are older than one year, they did not even bother to respond to an e-mail.
The vendor of the router has shipped, free of charge, two additional devices immediately after I have explained the access problems. But the problem is exactly the same with all of the routers, no access if you don't know the password!
So unless someone knows someone of the Siemens support team, you will not be able to use the device as a router. But if you are looking for a nice coffee cup warmer, go for it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Efficient Networks 120-5871-002 Speedstream Business Class DSL Router

1205871001 5871 ROUTER

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10/21/2012

SMC SMC7008BR Cable/DSL Router with 8 Port Switch Review

SMC SMC7008BR Cable/DSL Router with 8 Port Switch
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I've been through the whole progression of sharing the cable modem at my house for 5 home PC's and my work laptop. I started with the Microsoft solution of ICS (I specifically upgraded to Windows 98 SE to get that feature). I used thinnet on my home network and it worked ok but having to have the one PC on for the rest was awkard and it was slow for the kids multiplayer games. I then moved on to a SMC 7004BR router and it was bliss. Easy setup except the printer sharing. Even there I called their support and they walked me through it. I have since stepped up to the 7008BR for two locations I manage and these are better than the 7004BR (Faster too). I cannot recommend them enough.

Click Here to see more reviews about: SMC SMC7008BR Cable/DSL Router with 8 Port Switch

Designed for small to midsized offices, the SMC cable/DSL router combinesa multifunctional broadband router with a seven-port 10/100 Mbps dual-speed switch, a built-in print server, an RS232 COM port for modem connections, and an Internet firewall for extra security. A WAN port along with Network Address Translation (NAT) extend simultaneous Internet access for up to 253 PCs on a LAN. The router also supports VPN tunneling via PPTP/IPSec pass-through, allowing remote users secure access to their corporate infrastructure.
With auto-assigning of LAN and IP addresses, the SMC7008BR enables multiple users to connect to the Internet using a single WAN/IP address.
Included software ensures instant, self-configuring installation or your money back. The SMC cable/DSL router comes with a limited lifetime warranty and 24/7 technical support.

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10/16/2012

D-Link DI-714P+ Wireless Cable/DSL Router, 4-Port Switch, Prnt Server, 802.11b, 22Mbps Review

D-Link DI-714P+ Wireless Cable/DSL Router, 4-Port Switch, Prnt Server, 802.11b, 22Mbps
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Setup: fairly straightforward. There is a "wizard" setup for those who don't like to go through every single option screen. The screen navigation is laid out in a simple, but not intuitive manner - it takes a few moments to realize the buttons on the left change with tab options at the top, but the buttons on the left don't change if there are multiple screens on the right (like "next page" or a button to press). There is no "go back a page" - they expect you to hit the button to the right that is still visible. All my complaining about that aside - it's as easy, if not easier, to navigate and find settings than both netgear and linksys.
Print server: no setup available on the router - it either is or is not plugged in. Software setup for PC works fine. Did not try it with linux yet.
Wireless: finally, something that works with 64/128 bit WEP. Netgear never worked. Linksys was so-so. This works. NOTE: For those who want to limit ACCESS to the WIRELESS by MAC ADDRESS - this unit cannot do it. It can limit by MAC to the INTERNET, but that will also limit who can attach to the unit, both with wireless and with a physical connection. Most other units only use this filter to limit access to the wireless portion. If used, you have to put in all the machines connecting to it - both wireless and physical....
Firewall: Syslog, email logs available. Nice. SPI works. DMZ support. Passthrough ports available. Works great with my nortel VPN client (this is always a good test of PPTP and so on).
FIRMWARE NOTE: I had the hardest time getting this thing to work with windows terminal services. No matter what setting I used, it would lock up then drop the connection until I rebooted the router (software reboot). Some settings would go longer, but I could get it to lock up within 2 minutes. Nothing seemed to fix it - a few people have reported this on the internet, but since most people aren't using the terminal services part of windows on a regular basis - they would never know it.
The fix was to load the 1.22 firmware, not the 1.23 that came with it. This REMOVES the 802.1X authentication tab (some type of shared radius key BS - if you want radius support, get a REAL wireless device) and it removes the 4X mode for the B+ series of wireless adapters (which I do not have anyway).
TO LOAD FIRMWARE: you would need to run either executable (one for MAC or the other for PC) OR use the web browser to upload the file (requires either java or activeX - not sure) because it opens up the "open file" dialog box - meaning - experimental browsers, like those in my beloved linux box - don't work well with this. ALSO - it states in no unclear terms DO NOT UPGRADE USING A WIRELESS LINK. Use a hard wired computer. I went from 1.23 to 1.22 and back and forth and so on testing this remote desktop issue.
FINAL FIX: load 1.23, hit the button to reset the router to the defaults, load 1.22, reboot, hit the button to reset the router to the defaults, then type all your configuration back in.
Why the crazy steps? If you loaded 1.23, typed ANYTHING in the boxes that aren't available in 1.22 - it remembers and will cause problems, even though that option isn't availble in 1.22 (I tried this - several times for fun). 1.23 -> load setup defaults -> load 1.22 -> load setup defaults -> configure.
Live without their crippled version of RADIUS (if you don't know what this is you don't need it) and who cares about the crappy 4X mode for the B+ stuff? Another marketing ploy anyway.
Bottom line - with some experimentation, I figured out the firmware thing. IT has worked BETTER than the linksys ever did (can we say firmware of the week?) and improved over the netgears I have used (you can print and not be disconnected from the internet - thanks a lot netgear).
4 stars because firmware is supposed to fix stuff, and their two listed updates should not have affected the RDP stuff in 2000/XP. But it did.

Click Here to see more reviews about: D-Link DI-714P+ Wireless Cable/DSL Router, 4-Port Switch, Prnt Server, 802.11b, 22Mbps

D-LINK DI-714P+ - The AirPlus Enhanced 2.4GHz Wireless Router combines next generation 802.11b Digital Signal Processing ( DSP ) technology from Texas Instruments with D-Link's own robust firewall security features, for simple installation and comprehensive management settings.Fully compatible with the IEEE 802.11b standard, and interoperable with all existing 802.11b compliant devicesSupports 64/128/256-bit WEP encryptionBuilt-In Print Server -Includes Parallel port to connect a printer, along with Windows based print server software applicationDimensions -1.3H x 6.5W x 9.25L; weighs about 2 poundsThree year limited warranty

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9/26/2012

Netgear DS106 6-Port 10/100 Dual Speed Hub with Uplink Button Review

Netgear DS106 6-Port 10/100 Dual Speed Hub with Uplink Button
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An earlier review stated "this hub only appears to provide half-duplex support".This is part of the definition of a hub vs a switch, thus the product is not flawed. A switch will provide full duplex and is more appropriate for multiple high bandwidth devices. If you're attempting to decide HUB vs SWITCH, do a google search before you buy.
I have been a fan of Netgear products since they were originally under BayNetworks. They make high quality devices, attractive design, and they normally offer long warranties. This product is no different. I've had it serving up a couple of machines now for over a year without incident. It's remained on 24 hours / 365 days and performs nicely.
The only downside I've seen with Netgear is their on going support (Firmware upgrades, etc.). Obvisouly that won't be an issue with this device, but something to consider if your also looking at them to provide a router solution. Also, the power adaptors seem to go a little too often.
All and all, this is a great hub and wonderful price. I can think of no reason for some who needs a hub to not pick this up.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Netgear DS106 6-Port 10/100 Dual Speed Hub with Uplink Button

The Netgear DS100 series of 10/100 Mbps dual-speed hubs connects multiple PCs to share printers, files, Internet access, and e-mail communications. One can mix and match 10 and 100 Mbps PCs, servers, and peripherals with these hubs, all without any configuration required. The DS100 family combines many capabilities in little space, and the units are designed for price-conscious small-business owners. One can connect 10 or 100 Mbps network devices to the hub. Each port individually senses and adjusts to run at the proper speed.
Each unit has a built-in self-learning bridge that provides the communications link between the 10 and 100 Mbps network devices. The intelligent bridge automatically manages network traffic so that 10 Mbps traffic and 100 Mbps traffic do not crowd each other's segments.

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7/28/2012

NETGEAR WMB521NA 802.11b Wireless Kit for Notebooks Review

NETGEAR WMB521NA 802.11b Wireless Kit for Notebooks
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I have to say, I was a little concerned about this product after reading about some of the difficulties other buyers have experienced. I was also a bit nervous about installing it myself, since I am not what you would call a computer expert.
From Day One after installing it, though, I have been impressed. It gets fantastic range throughout my entire house, even through walls and heavy, metal objects. Signal strength on my computers is almost always between 90-100%, and has NEVER dipped below 73%.
As for the network installation itself, it was easy and took a total of about an hour (and that includes installation and configuration of wireless cards on 2 computers).
And you can't beat the price on this thing. I highly recommend this and other Netgear wireless network products.

Click Here to see more reviews about: NETGEAR WMB521NA 802.11b Wireless Kit for Notebooks

NETGEAR's Wireless Router and PC Card Kit offers the speeds of 802.11b and the convenience of a getting a NETGEAR Wireless Router (MR814) and Wireless PC Card (MA521) at the same time. Our standards-based 802.11b wireless products allow you to be connected to your network through your notebook PC from just about anywhere in your home or office. These easy-to-install, 11 Mbps, 2.4 GHz wireless products give you an always on, always connected wireless network.NETGEAR's MR814 Wireless Router, winner of Cnet's Editor's Choice award, is an easy-to-use device that comes with four wired ports for connecting any combination of four computers or printers. You can also connect up to sixteen users wirelessly using 802.11b or 802.11g clients. With the MR814, you can share one broadband connection for high-speed Web surfing and file sharing. And Setup is quick and easy with NETGEAR's Smart Wizard you'll be up and running in fewer than five clicks. With its best-in-class security features the MR814 monitors user activity with logging and e-mail alerts, and provides URL filtering controls.

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7/02/2012

Netgear RT311 DSL/Cable Internet Gateway Router Review

Netgear RT311 DSL/Cable Internet Gateway Router
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The RT311 is a simple, easy-to-install solution for sharing a broadband Internet connection for small office / home office (SOHO) users. It's about as close to plug and play as you're likely to get.
Most situations can be covered with the Windows-based installation tool. You'll need all the pertinent info from your provider (IP address, gateway address, DNS address, netmask, etc.), but with this in-hand, the graphical installer makes it easy.
More advanced needs, and people who frequently play online multi-user games, will need more expertise to use the RT311. Advanced configurations can only be made by telnetting to the box itself, or by connecting a serial cable and using a terminal program. This won't be an easy task for average users, and while the manual is well-written and thorough, it can't (and doesn't) train newbies on the basics; some level of skill is assumed.
Its "firewall" security is centered around NAT (network address translation), which does afford some level of security for your network. (It's also what makes connection sharing work.) In short, private IP addresses are assigned to PCs on your network, and the RT311 remaps connections to a single public IP address assigned by your provider. In this way, your PC is not directly accessible from the outside world, since by default, unsolicited incoming TCP/IP connections are denied access to the network. That's fine, but for real security, look to a SonicWall or something more advanced. The RT311 won't likely do much for certain types of hacker attacks, like Denial of Service (DoS), "ping of death," IP spoofing, and the like, which some more sophisticated solutions do address.
NAT also causes problems for some applications. For example, IRC will be tough to use, because most IRC servers require IDENT, and IDENT requests won't pass through the device to your desktop. Dialpad.com, Napster uploads to other users, and a variety of other applications will not work in the RT311's default configuration. You'll need to configure "SUA" for this (i.e., port remapping), but again, that requires telnet or a terminal program, and non-technical users will likely find this a challenge (at least at first).
In addition, your port remapping capabilities are limited. You have your choice of remapping everything to a particular machine on the network (not a good idea, and defeats all firewall security, so use it temporarily and sparingly), or mapping selected ports by number. But you can configure a maximum of only six (6) of those, which may not be enough for power users or networks with many users and applications. (The D-Link and Linksys solutions that compete with the RT311 offer just slightly more flexibility here.)
Using a hardware solution like the RT311 is, in my experience, far better and more reliable than software-based solutions like WinProxy. (But of course, WinProxy offers web caching, content filtering, and other features that the RT311 and its competitors do not. But I favor the reliability of a dedicated piece of hardware to loading down my PC with yet another task.)
Otherwise, the unit does as advertised. It's economical, well supported, well warranted, and well built. Its manual, which is supplied electronically, is as good as they come. And most everything you'll need is in the box (including the basic required cables).
One final note: Be aware that this is a real, Ethernet-based solution. You'll need a 10-Base-T or 100-Base-T local area network (LAN), including hubs or switches as needed, and your DSL or cable modem will also need 10-Base-T Ethernet for hook-up. (This box is not really the right choice for sharing dial-up or ISDN connections.)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Netgear RT311 DSL/Cable Internet Gateway Router

Netgear's RT311 Internet access gateway router allows up to 32 users secure admission to the Internet from a single ISP (Internet service provider) account. It works in conjunction with DSL or cable modems for high-speed Internet access.
Compatible with 10/100 Mbps networks, the Netgear RT311 establishes a firewall that prevents hackers and unauthorized users from interfering in your business. NAT protocols hide the local IP addresses from outside Internet users. Port forwarding and customizable filters allow only authorized users to gain access to your site and files.
The Netgear RT311 is compatible with Internet conferencing, RealAudio, RealVideo, and most chat programs. FirstGear, a Windows-based configuration tool, enables simple installation. All the necessary cables are included, as is a setup guide.
Netgear provides a five-year warranty on parts and labor.

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5/20/2012

Siemens SpeedStream Wireless DSL/Cable Router (SS2624) Review

Siemens SpeedStream Wireless DSL/Cable Router (SS2624)
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I have used this router for three years and it works great, except ...
If you use VPN and want it to continue to function, don't upgrade your firmware to Release 10 (released in late 2003). Otherwise, you will be like me with a crippled router.

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3/29/2012

APPLE M9479LL/A AirPort Extreme Base Station Power Adapter Review

APPLE M9479LL/A AirPort Extreme Base Station Power Adapter
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I ordered this as a replacement for my Airport Extreme power cable. It is not an Apple product and is the wrong size for the Aiport Extreme. Therefore, it was of no use to me. It is very frustrating to have the product listed as being for an Airport Extreme when it is no such thing. Will not buy again from this seller.

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3/27/2012

TRENDnet 300 Mbps Wireless N Gigabit Router TEW-639GR (Black) Review

TRENDnet 300 Mbps Wireless N Gigabit Router TEW-639GR (Black)
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I've spent the last few months dealing with a horrible wireless n router so I decided to go with this one. I also have a TREDNnet wireless n gaming adapter and it's been fantastic so far. Anyways, this router runs cool even though I've been using multiple connections at the same time and using tons of traffic. My PC shows that I average 250Mbps and I see it peak at 300 constantly so the speed is as advertised. I have it running in mixed mode. It only took about 10 minutes to set the router up out of the box. Once I plugged in my cable modem and my pc it automatically configured the connection and I just had to log in and configure the wireless portion and security. In the 10 minutes I also configured my DDNS and my wireless IP Cameras to work with the router. It's a super easy interface.....pretty much the same as any other router you can buy. When saving settings the reboot only took a few seconds and always went back into the setup. Most routers clunk out and you have to reset and log back in manually. I could go on and on but to keep this short I'd have to say that this router is awesome and it does EXACTLY as advertised. I've used most of the major brands of routers and I can't say much for most. It's very difficult to find a good reliable product but I think I've gotten lucky with this one. Don't believe hype or buy something because you've heard the name before. The only other router I've ever been happy with was a Viewsonic believe it or not. That thing was rock solid and never gave me a single problem. If anything changes I will post it....otherwise you can count on this router. I love how people here are claiming they have advanced knowledge but can't set this router up. It's really very very simple just follow the quick setup in the manual.
*UPDATE 1/17/10*
Still no reset needed! I've been using tons of data with multiple devices. As a matter of fact Netflix is streaming to my living room right now. I have a torrent downloading on this pc @ 500kB/s and there are no hiccups. Just solid lightning fast connections!
*UPDATE 3/14/10*
Still no reset needed. I'm running in Mixed Mode and you MUST run 20/40 on the Bandwidth to get full speed. That must be the problem with others but this is standard with any N router.

Click Here to see more reviews about: TRENDnet 300 Mbps Wireless N Gigabit Router TEW-639GR (Black)



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2/21/2012

SMC SMCWGBR14-N Barricade N ProMax Draft 11n Wireless Gigabit Broadband Router Review

SMC  SMCWGBR14-N Barricade N ProMax Draft 11n Wireless Gigabit Broadband Router
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I'm a Network Engineer and I have a habit of over doing it with my home equipment. I was limping along with my old Linksys router. The Barney of home networking equipment. My Vista laptop did not get along well with it at all. Refusing to upgrade convinced that N was just a stepping stone and the moment I bought a new router they'd release a new better product that actually lived up to the hype. However I was to the point that I would only use the internet if I was wired in. I did a lot of research and I finally chose the SMC Barricade Router. I installed the Barricade yesterday and I was shocked at how many features this router really came with in the Admin console. And my wifi connection is fast, 100% reliable and my laptop hasn't kicked me off of the internet since the moment I turned the router on. Signal...100% excilenta all of the time. Buy it, you'll love it. Stay away from Linksys you deserve better. The only thing that could make me happier with the Barricade is if the built in Gigabit switch had more than 4 ports. I have a few ethernet network storage drives and I'd like to have some extra slots for other devices. But 4 is standard with wifi routers. Thank you SMC for fixing my relationship with Wifi. It has really lived up to the good reviews. Check out Cnet.com for a good run down on it's features.

Click Here to see more reviews about: SMC SMCWGBR14-N Barricade N ProMax Draft 11n Wireless Gigabit Broadband Router



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1/12/2012

D-Link DIR-855 Xtreme N Duo Dual Band Draft 802.11n Media Router Review

D-Link DIR-855 Xtreme N Duo Dual Band Draft 802.11n Media Router
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D-Link DIR-855 Xtreme N Duo Dualband Draft 802.11n Media Router
Per another customer, here's the differences in the Extremes:
The following will likely save you a couple of hours of research...
The DIR-655 is single-band (2.4GHz).
The DGL-4500 is dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz), however it only uses one band at a time. You choose which band, manually, in the configuration. It doesn't choose the best band in real-time, or anything like that.
The DIR-855 is dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and uses both bands at the same time.

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D-Link DIR-855 Xtreme N Duo Dual Band Draft 802.11n Media Router

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12/26/2011

D-Link DIR-685 Xtreme N Storage Router and Photo Frame, 2.5" Drive Bay, 3.2" LCD, Draft 11n Review

D-Link DIR-685 Xtreme N Storage Router and Photo Frame, 2.5 Drive Bay, 3.2 LCD, Draft 11n
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As a database administrator and programmer, I tend to enjoy tech toys. I have a D-Link DIR-825 Xtreme N Dual Band Gigabit Router sitting on my desk, and was excited to be offered the D-Link DIR-685 Xtreme N Storage Router as a more visually appealing and versatile router.
The D-Link DIR-685 Xtreme N Storage Router offers high speed wired and wireless n connections. Wireless connections can be managed by zones including guest connections. Unlike most routers, the DIR-685 includes network-attached storage (NAS) capabilities and a digital picture frame.
The initial set-up was simple to complete, however testing revealed the network didn't set up correctly. My PC can connect directly to the network, but cannot access any wireless networked devices even though I can ping them. I called customer support, only to be given the run around by people who didn't understand my problem. I asked my other half who is more familiar with networking to speak with customer service. This is when they admitted they didn't understand the problem and escalated to a specialist who would call back later. When the specialist called, the result was basically since I can ping the devices it's not a router problem. So I'm stuck with a network which doesn't work properly and have no clue how to fix.
The router frequently freezes up and drops connections. Freezing is obvious thanks to the digital picture frame as the images just stop rotating. It is not uncommon for me to unplug the router three times a week or more to unfreeze. Meanwhile there is no telling when this unstable router will drop a connection. Since the router sits on my desk, it's easy enough to disconnect and reconnect the network cable, but I'm tired of listening to my other half's constant valid complaints.
The digital frame is a nice touch; however it is way too small. For proper viewing the router would need to be pretty close to the viewer. This may cause a conflict between viewing and placing the router in an appropriate spot for wireless connectivity. Anyplace with too much distance makes the photos too small to distinguish.
I really enjoy using the frame channel with the digital photo frame. Setting up an account at the frame channel website was simple. I was able to sign up for news, weather, sports, stocks, and magazine sites as well as images from my facebook friends.
With the digital picture frame, the router includes an intuitive menu selection for showing stats and settings. The NAS drive (hard drive not included) was also simple to install and put to use.
As a techno-geek I was excited to try out this router. However my network isn't working properly, while D-Link customer service was unwilling to help resolve the problem. The router freezes and drops connections regularly. If I weren't having connectivity and freezing issues, I'd be willing to invest more time determining the networking issue. This problem is huge for a router and overshadows the digital picture frame and NAS system. This router has potential to be a fun versatile device, but I cannot recommend purchasing an expensive product which fails at its primary purpose.
PROS:
Frame channel
Intuitive on-board menu display
NAS (network-attached storage) system
CONS:
Never got it to work properly
Customer service not helpful
Digital frame too small
Regularly freezes and drops connections

Click Here to see more reviews about: D-Link DIR-685 Xtreme N Storage Router and Photo Frame, 2.5" Drive Bay, 3.2" LCD, Draft 11n

At first glance, D-Link's Xtreme N Storage Router might be mistaken for a basic digital photo frame. Take a closer look, and you will find that this 2009 winner of the prestigious Red Dot Product Design Award is more than a photo frame. It's also a high-performance router that lets you create a wireless network in your home, so you can share high-speed Internet access with multiple computers, game consoles, and media players. You can also use the Xtreme as a network-attached storage (NAS) device that stores your files and prints and shares photos, iTunes libraries, and more.
High-Speed Connection and Full Wireless Coverage for Ease of Use With an integrated 802.11n high-speed band and a 2.4GHz signal, the D-Link Xtreme lets you experience full wireless coverage throughout your network. The powerful MIMO antennae are internal, which means that you can enjoy faster speed and longer range without sacrificing the router's stylish appearance.
The Xtreme also includes Ethernet Gigabit ports for file transfer rates up to 10 times faster than the standard 10/100 Ethernet ports. And thanks to the router's touch-sensitive buttons that let you easily add devices to your network, multiple computers, printers, and even game consoles will be available at your fingertips.
Network-Attached Storage for Easy File Access High-speed connectivity is only the beginning. The DIR-685 can also double as a network-attached storage device (NAS). It has the ability to hold a compact 2.5-inch hard drive. Simply pop open the cover and slide in the drive (sold separately), and the router's built-in NAS functionality will do the rest.
With the Xtreme N Storage Router, you can safely store files on your home network and access them wherever you go. Take your laptop with you, connect to the Internet, and then retrieve your files from the Xtreme using the router's built-in FTP server.
BitTorrent Support and Video Streaming for Versatility The Xtreme includes the latest BitTorrent software support, so you can access and store digital media directly from the Internet without the need for your computer to be turned on or connected. For extra large files, you can get the download process started and then walk away with the confidence that your video clips or songs will be on the system's hard drive when you return.
The built-in Universal Plug-and-Play server allows you to easily stream video files through a compatible media player onto your television. You can even stream files from your Xbox 360 and PlayStation3 gaming systems.
Digital Frame Lets You Share Photos, Print Photos, and More The Xtreme also includes FrameChannel software. Once you set up a free account, you can begin sharing your latest photos with family and friends using Flickr, Picasa, Facebook, and other popular photo sharing sites. With two USB 2.0 ports, you can even connect to a printer to print your photos.
Better still, you can use the Xtreme to subscribe to your favorite RSS feeds. Get the latest news, stock updates, sports scores, time, date, weather conditions, and more--all directly from your frame.
What's in the Box Xtreme N Storage Router, CAT5 Ethernet cable, stand, power adapter, and CD-ROM with Installation Wizard and product documentation.

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11/26/2011

D-Link DWA-552 Xtreme N Wireless PCI Adapter Review

D-Link DWA-552 Xtreme N Wireless PCI Adapter
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Hello all, thanks for taking the time to read this.
It took me a long time to really get a good handle on this cards performance and I have had it now for about 3 months. While the router that accompanies this adapter is the best wireless router I have ever used, I have found this PCI adapter to be just okay.
While it does it's job pretty well, it absolutely did not impress me as an "Extreme-N" PCI adapter. Let me say a little about my setup. I have the DLink Extreme N router upstairs and the PC that has this adapter in it sits on the floor and is almost directly across the house but downstairs (proably around 40-50 feet away and through about 4 walls at about -30 degrees). Windows thinks that it has a 300Mbps connection, but the included DLink software drivers can calculate the actual connection speed and it seems to fluctuate from anywhere from 2mbps and 108mbps (usually is around 32Mbps). The average throughput I usually get is around 60Mbps (which is around 7-8 megabytes a second...since you divide Mbps (Megabits) by 8bits to get Megabytes). If you dont know about the extreme-n router, I have a review on that too, but quickly its a gigabit router so it handle 1000Mbps (125 megabytes/sec) if you are using a wire, so there is no bottleneck within the router. I usually see around a 60% connection on the N network whereas my Centrino laptop in the same position gets around an 80% connection off of the "G" network that the router also transmits.
Although I am a little annoyed at the connection and throughput speeds, I am most annoyed at the fact that at the time of this review (5/2007) this PCI adapter is COMPLETELY and UTTERLY useless for Windows Vista. My Vista kept crashing (im talking a HARD crash...complete lockup of the computer, hard reset needed, after only 5-10 minutes past the boot-up process...consistently), and I tried to figure out why. I spoke to MS Customer service thinking that since Vista was so new, that there was a problem on their end. Together we figured out that it was this card that kept crashing the computer. After we disabled and removed the card from the system, it stopped crashing (I even tried to make it crash, but it was rock solid). The drivers I used were specifically labled Beta Vista Drivers, so until the drivers are out of the Beta phase, I wouldn't trust them. Since my house isnt yet wired for ethernet, and putting the wireless modem in that room would make my wireless network quite useless, I have a $250 piece of software (vista) just sitting on my shelf.
Anyways, if you are just using Windows XP, this should work out fine, not spectactular, not horrible...still better than the "G" networks (I will WAY outperform them if you are not as far from the router as I am) But not as spectacular as I hoped (Based on how spectacular the 655 router is).

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11/12/2011

Best Data CMX300 SmartOne Cable Modem Review

Best Data CMX300 SmartOne Cable Modem
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I have actually had a CMX300 for some time - probably about 5 years or so. For a reason I forget now, I bought a Motorola SB5120 about two years ago and it seemed a little faster so I put the Best Data on the shelf. A little over a year ago, Time Warner (Roadrunner) replaced Comcast in my area, and I began having intermittent connectivity problems. Naturally I blamed Time Warner. I had to reset the cable modem sometimes 10 times a week. Well, recently, my service went completely out and was out for several days while I waited for Time Warner to come figure out what the problem was. I don't know what made me want to try the old Best Data modem, but I figured "what the heck" and plugged it in. Wouldn't you know, it worked, I called Time Warner with the "new" MAC address, and here I am writing this review. The old standby to the rescue. I may at some point replace the CMX300 again, but I think I'll continue to hold onto it for its reliability and the fact that it has never let me down completely like the Motorola did.

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11/04/2011

D-Link DIR-632 Wireless-N 8-Port Router Review

D-Link DIR-632 Wireless-N 8-Port Router
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I'll start by saying that I have several Windows 7 and several Mac PCs in the house. I had been using a Westell wireless modem/router provided by Frontier DSL (Formerly Verizon DSL in Washington State). The Westell was starting to have problems with one of my Macs (The IP Address kept dropping or some such thing) so I needed a new router. The Quick Start Guide that comes with this D-Link router tells you all you need to know for what is truly a very simple set up process. I simply installed the CD ROM into one of my Windows machines, followed the prompts and, voila!, my new network was up and running.
One terrific benefit to this router that, as of the date of this review, no one has mentioned, is that you have the option of using it as a stand alone router OR IN ADDITION TO your existing router/modem. This latter option provides the user with the addition of even more Ethernet ports because they can use the eight with the D-Link and all but one of the ones on the old router. Note: One of the ports on the old router will need to be used to connect it to the new D-Link. It's also important to note that this is just a router. It does not have a modem so if your existing setup was like mine, with a router/modem, then, assuming there's nothing wrong with your existing modem, you will likely want to ADD this in the same manner that I did.
Of course, if all you need are additional Ethernet ports your money will be much better spent on something like TRENDnet 8-Port Unmanaged Gigabit GREENnet Standard Switch (8 x 10/100/1000Mbps Auto-Negotiation, Auto-MDIX Gigabit Ethernet Ports) TEG-S80G (Black Metal). This piece of equipment will provide you with a hub to plug into your existing router.
I've noticed some reviewers have had issues with Mac. I had none whatsoever. If you only have Mac and no Windows then there's a manual set up process in the Quick Start Guide. If you have both Windows and Mac PCs, I recommend your first set up be with a Windows PC. When you're finished with the Windows set up you'll have all the information you need to just go to your Airport Icon and Join your new network.
I've only used the new network for a couple of days. If I experience any problems, I'll come back and revise my review accordingly.
Update: After three months of use this baby's working like a charm. Not a single issue. I am very happy with this product.
Update # 2: 5/6/2011 Not a single problem. Great set up


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D-link DIR-632 Wireless Router - 300 Mbps DIR-632 Routers & Gateways - Wireless

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