I got this router at the recommendation of my neighbor who is a technical executive at a major NY bank. He said that I could use it on my new cable broadband service for security.

(see my review of the GREAT OptimumOnline service)


This router was easy to use and install.

It is basically just plug and play.

It has a ROUTER which interfaces between two networks (your local network or LAN, and the internet or WAN).

It has a high-speed SWITCH which creates your Local Area Network (LAN) just by clipping in your 2 to 4 computers into it.

It has a FIREWALL, which provides added security when you are online. Your only public IP address is the router's. The PCs have private IP addresses behind the firewall. I have tested this multiple times and my PCs are undetectable by the internet. Some people say that for full security you should have a software firewall too. I don't and have been fine.

This item SHARES my internet connection seamlessly with my 2 computers.

One drawback was that I screwed up my firmware and had to flash it again from the Linksys.com tech support site. This wasn't too hard and it has worked fine ever since for months. I hear that others have had to do this too.

I would recommend this item to others.

You can get it for $69 after rebates at Amazon.com. Use this link to get it at a great price:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00004SB92/nycplannelinksse Linksys BEFSR41 Etherfast 4-Port..

UPDATE: Still going strong a couple of years later!


Recommended: Yes