Just installed it and want to share my experience, FWIW.
Ive had a hard wired SMC Barricade router for a few years now and it served me well, but my network will be expanding soon with the upcoming arrival of my new Dell XPS M1210. I bought the Netgear router because it has both NAT and SPI firewalls and because it was recommended by PC World.
I started the installation using the wizard on the packaged CD. All went well until the user/password windows started popping. At an earlier stage I had changed the factory password to my own and I was under the impression that it didnt go through. The PC had hard time connecting.
The documents provided the 24/7 tech support number but first I had to register on line. I did that and called tech support. After a couple of menus I reached tech support with no hold time.
I had a problem getting used to a thick Indian accent but the tech was patient and repeated slowly whatever I asked her. She walked me through the installation and we configured both my hard wired machine and the wireless network in just a few minutes. My old Compaq with a Lynksis Wireless G PC card was connected with no problems at 54 Mbps, as per the router specs. The wireless network is secured. The speed drops to 48 when I go to the lower floor. The on line router interface is detailed and comprehensive, with a user friendly help pertinent to the items on the screen.
I read at cnet.com some bad user reviews about this product. I have no idea what were these peoples problems. Im giving this router a "thumbs up". I paid $30 at Micro Center. Worth every buck. Now Im waiting to see how the new XPS, with the built in Intel PRO/Wireless 3945 802.11a/g, will connect.
Netgear 54 Mbps Wireless router WGR614
Discussion in 'Networking and Wireless' started by road_warrior, Sep 18, 2006.