van_can's Full Review: Linksys WRT54GC Wireless Router
For this dummy, this is a great router. The quick set-up CD is helpful, but I ran into problems configuring it with my service provider. I had to check with my provider's website (Telus in Canada), manually configure the router settings via the web, and guess at a few of the options before my internet access was restored (which took almost two hours). But since it's been going, it's been great. The thing to note about this router is that it is TINY. I don't use it as a wireless--it can take up to four wired connections--but definitely want that functionality should I require it in the future. There is no way to disable wireless radio entirely as with other routers. All you can do is enable password protection and opt to keep the router from broadcasting its SSID to any wi-fi adapters in the area. Theoretically, it can still be hacked.
There are a lot of security options, and the CD set-up wizard does not explain them very well. Figuring out the different options requires thorough consideration of the help manual and searching terms on the web. There is an option to add an antenna to improve the broadcast range, but I haven't had the need for it, yet. All in all, I've been very pleased with this purchase.
For Canadian shoppers who may have been enticed by the mail-in rebate offer through Staples/Business Depot: I ran into some big problems getting the rebate and was ill-advised at the store. Remember that the mail-in offers are always risky. If the rebate promotion is your only reason for choosing this brand, you may wish to wait for a better deal. I'm still happy with the purchase, but may have waited for a true sale instead of buying it at the time of the rebate offer.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 60 Driver Availability: Windows only
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