I recently bought the Orinoco RG-1100 residential gateway. This is the same as the RG-1000 except it has no v. 90 modem, and supports 128 bit encryption. I've set it up as a "bridge" which connects to my 4 port cable/dsl router. No NAT or DHCP is enabled on the RG.

I am very pleased with its speed, performance and range. My only recommendation is to download the latest setup utility, and AP manager from Orinoco's web site (www.orinocowireless.com) before proceeding with installation. Currently this is release "Fall 2001" (it came on the CD for me).

For bridge setup, simply select "LAN infrastructure" and accept all the defaults from that point on. Your AP should be up and running immediately. You can then go back and change the password and encryption key.

If you wish to have more control and security, you should really change the default network name, and default encryption, and authenticate via your PC/laptops' MAC addresses. These features are not available in the RG setup utility. However they are provided to you in the latest AP Manager software (released Sept. 8 2001). Make sure you have the latest firmware release for your RG-1100 and use the AP manager to secure your network.

I learnt all this by writing to Orinoco tech support. These guys, especially Dan Sherwood, were absolutely fantastic and a ton of credit goes to them for answering my questions promptly and very professionally. I could not be happier with their help.

Overall, I highly recommend the RG-1100. The setup with the new setup utility and AP manager is a breeze. Don't be scared! Authentication via MAC address, long encryption keys, arbitrary network name, and future support for WEP II in upcoming firmwares, all make this access point a winner! And all for $150-$170!

payman



Recommended: Yes