First and foremost, the buying tip is to make sure it is "WiFi Certified" and make sure it supports WPA2 security, and the rest is mostly marketing hype. I would suggest Linksys, a division of Cisco, they generally come out on top in terms of performance, ease of use, and support, according to PC Magazine and similar mags. So the extra 5 or 10 dollars for a Linksys is justified. You will also find them on eBay for a good price. This has been my experience as well. As for what you should "expect" the answer is the same: ease of use, good web interface, complete feature set, good security options, good help available both online and if you need to call for tech support.
Consider getting one with a built-in 4-port 10/100 switch for example. I'll mention some specific models below. This just gives the extra flexibility of having both wired and wireless connections.
Beware going with the new 802.11n and all the hype surrounding it about higher speeds and longer distances, it's not even a finalized standard yet. In some cases you'll get great results with a pre-N product but the final standard can and will change which might make the pre-N router you buy now junk sometime next year.
The home user norm is a b/g router or access point such as the Linksys WRT54G, while the industry and small business norm is an a/b/g such at the Linksys WRT55AG. I'd spend the extra few bucks and get the a/b/g model so you have more flexibility down the road in case you need to use 802.11a channels for certain reasons. If your budget is limited and it's for home use, get the WRT54G for about $50 new.
Grab a "Computer Shopper" or PC Magazine or similar mags and look up their wireless router product reviews, that'll give you a good idea and more details on what to look for and what NOT to fall for in terms of marketing hype. Finally, don't believe everything you read online (like on Y!Answers) in terms of product reviews from other users! One good (or bad) review/experience usually means very little regarding what you might experience yourself.
2006-11-03 05:27:56
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answer #1
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answered by networkmaster 5
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Ask yourself if you actually need it...if you are buying it to allow a laptop to be used anywhere in your home then yes that is what you need. If you have a desktop that you can connect and you only want to use another computer as well then you can build an ad hoc network that doesn't need a router.
Let me try and explain -
Computer "A" is a desk top machine that is connected to the internet either through a broaddand or anologue modem. Computer "B" is a lap top and you want to connect it to the intenet as well.
Fit a wifi card to Compuer "A" - switch on computer "A" and connect to the internet. Fit a wifi card or activate the wifi connection on you lap top.
You will be prompted to (or select) create a small office or home network and follow the prompts...easy peasy and it will save you some dosh!
2006-11-02 21:38:10
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answer #2
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answered by Kaypee 4
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I use Linksys wireless router and it works great. Lots of features depending on the security levels you want ot set. The price for the wireless router for DSL is about $50 US dollars. They have excellent 24 hour customer service if something goes down on your network, they will guide you and get yo back up and running. I tried Belkin and D-Link in the past but I would not switch back.
2006-11-02 21:36:09
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answer #3
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answered by Anonymous
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All wireless routers come with a plethora of features. Advanced users may be interested in virtual servers and demilitarized zones. Here are the key features you need to consider before buying your wireless router.
Is your router supported by your broadband provider?
Internet and wireless security.
Performance.
2006-11-02 21:21:37
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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I am using a Netgear DG834G. Haven't had any problems since day 1!!! Therefore, the statement provided by S1ickb1g is WRONG!!!
It looks beautiful too with the modern design.
This will work with most broadband providers you set up with, as far as I know.
If you are in the UK, this website will help
2006-11-02 23:41:11
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answer #5
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answered by lootai 2
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Check out the prices on ebay. Cheap Cheap Cheap.
I bought my Linksys on ebay. I paid 25 bucks. At least take a look. Some sellers will take a check or money order.
2006-11-02 21:27:26
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answer #6
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answered by Anonymous
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2016-10-21 04:45:55
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answer #7
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answered by Anonymous
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I would make sure that it has a built in firewall, is at least an 802.11g or higher ( this is only important if you are sharing your network with other PCs ). and check that it is compatible with the older 802.11a/b.
2006-11-02 21:54:55
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answer #8
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answered by Anonymous
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DON'T buy a Netgear...it will work fine for a few months then break down. Go for US Robotics or Belkin. And look for one that goes up to 108MBPS
2006-11-02 21:40:29
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answer #9
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answered by S1ickb1g 2
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we have one of the linksey wireless router for ntl users but you can get them for bt or other network providers we got it from pc world it cost around £40.If your totally not sure go to pc world they will help you find the right one for you .They were very helpful brilliant!!!!
2006-11-02 21:31:29
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answer #10
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answered by deborah_garrod 1
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