Running a computer as a router 24/7 was too inefficient, so I went ahead and purchased one of these things. Time for my good, bad, and ugly review.

The good:
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Sets up very easily. I had no problem getting it to work on my network. DHCP is automatically configured, allowed my computers to work on the bootup. Out of the box and you're up and running.

Cost is very cheap on these. You can get great deals on these if you are willing to look. I paid $60 and am expecting to get $50 in rebates on this router. This is cheaper than the SMC Barricade (admitted a better product) and the Linksys router, but it does the job just as well. And unlike the ever popular Linksys router, this has a built in firewall for extra protection.

Firmware is not a problem on these. Unlike Linksys, where firmware is a major issue for compatability on RCA cable modems, there was no absolutely no problem. This router works like a charm, updates easily, and most cable modems will have no problem with it.

The bad:
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Someone else mentioned poor documentation. In fact, it's beyond that. Unless you are a network expert, it will not be easy to configure servers, port routing, and a DMZ. (if you do not know this terminology, don't fret since its not all entirely useful) To get the most out of this product takes a networking genius, even though DLink is marketing this product to the consumer market.

The user interface for the Web module is terrible. Not user friendly at all. The options are somewhat limited as well. Unlike the LInksys router, the interface is just mostly text and you *will* have a hard time navigating. Click "Advanced" and all of the sudden the menus change unless you click back to "Basic". DLink should've addressed this by providing a cleaner interface for home users.

The ugly:
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You will have to forgive me for being a graphic design nitpicker, but this interface is ugly. It's drab, poorly laid out, lack of menus, and lack of help. When you run into problems with this router, it's ugly because the manual is sparse, as is the web technical support. I recommend having a friend who can help you with this.

Conclusion:
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This is a good router, but DLink is marketing to the wrong crowd. If you want something to just plug in quickly and have it work, the DI-704 will do that. If you want a router that does a lot of nifty stuff (such a port mapping), then you must be a network guru or have a network guru friend to use it.

Recommended: Yes