Need Suggestions on A New Router...

Hey guys,

I've been using the Belkin Wireless G Router for the past year (the model pictured below) and a few days ago it broke. I called Belkin about it, and they told me to switch configurations, and almost tried everything to fix the issue, but none worked to my avail. I am now connected via ethernet directly to my cable/dsl modem.




I am now looking for a new router that will suit home connectivity needs. Just to note, at home my family is using about 4 different laptops and my brother also connects his Xbox 360 through a wireless networking adapter.

Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I would like to state my ideal specs and priority features for a router, based on information I've read on PC Mag.

1. I'm looking for a Wireless N (802.11n) router since I've heard that they deliver as much as five times more throughput as G-routers in the real-world setting.

2. A Dual-Band router that can support 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz bands as I have heard they perform better than Single-Band.

3. I would also prefer a Simultaneous dual-band both frequencies to achieve longer range and better signal strength. I've heard that these are generally more costly than regular dual-band routers, but price is not an issue for me (willing to spend a bit more since my parents are after the quality).

4. Ideally having a 4 by 4 antenna configuration, but if not, just having an ideal amount of transmitters and receivers built into the router. I've read that there aren't really any performance advantages of one antenna design over another, but I'd like some input on that.

5. With or without Guest Access. I'm not really familiar with this feature, but if anyone can clarify how this works, I'd appreciate it. I've heard that with this feature, friends can access your connection without knowing the password? Would that affect security? And also, would that allow your neighbors to access your connection, since the router range would be strong?

6. Preferably with WPS and any additional security feature that may be of help, but I'm not too sure about this yet. I've read that not all laptops are compatible with this configuration, but I would still like to know if this feature is needed? Any comments again would be appreciated...

7. At least four wired ports.

8. SPI Firewall, and if possible, support for WPA2-PSK encryption. I'm not really that knowledeable about these security settings, but I've read that they are a must.

9. Brand name is not an issue, but I sure would like worldwide customer support and accessible after-purchase service maintenance.

For now, those are my ideal specs and list of features for a router. I'd appreciate any suggestions for a router I can choose from as I would be making my purchase tomorrow or in the next few days.

If not all the features will be satisfied by the router suggested, please let me know which ones I would, or wouldn't need to look for when purchasing my router.

Thanks for the help...

 

Belkin N+ Wireless Router Can B A Good Option If U R Lookin For A Singal Band, But For Dual Band U Can Go For Linksys 610n Or Apple Airport Extreme (just Check Wether This One Supports Dual Band)..