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    Wireless-N Router questions from a rookie

    Discussion in 'Networking and Wireless' started by MobileGamer13, Dec 10, 2008.

  1. MobileGamer13

    MobileGamer13 Notebook Geek

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    Im a rookie about this wireless stuff. My new laptop computer has 802.11abgn+BT. At home I use a basic plug-in wired router (Etherfast 10/100 5-port switch) for the internet which is probably 2-3 years old.

    1. Would it be wise to upgrade to the Wireless N router?

    2. Whats the difference between Wireless-N Ultra RangePlus, Wireless-N Ultra RangePlus Gigabit, and Simultaneous Dual-N Band Router? (those were taken from the Linksys Brand routers)

    3. Will it improve my HD video streaming, gaming and so forth if I switch from wired to wireless?

    4. If a Wireless-N router is equipped with port switches will it be the same speed whether its wired or wireless?


    Any other suggestions or recommendations will be greatly appreciated.
     
  2. cjcerny

    cjcerny Notebook Consultant

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    Kinda depends on how fast your internet connection is. Wireless G is fast enough to handle just about any cable modem or DSL speed. If you have fiber, N might be a good idea.

    Wired is faster than wireless. Switching from wired to wireless is a bad idea.
     
  3. brainiac88

    brainiac88 Notebook Enthusiast

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    1. yes. most n routers have mimo, which should increase range and bitrate

    2. the 2nd one you mentioned has a gigbit switch vs the 1st oen which likely has 10/100 only. simultaneous dual means it has both the 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz radios for the n.

    3. no, wireless will not improve streaming in most cases. you already have a wired 10/100. So unless that switch is already saturated, then maybe an n connection can improve your connection.

    4. i dont quite understand this question.