Advice on a router

Question

Hi:

I need some advice as to which router would best serve my needs. I want one basically for its firewall protection, as I only have one home desktop, although I can foresee getting a second (possibly a laptop) and setting up a home network sometime down the line.

I'm on high-speed cable (6000/800 kbps) and want to be sure the router does not slow down my connection. Any advice much appreciated.

Dim. 9100
XP MCE 2005

W2600 LCD TV
Motorola Surfboard SB5120 cable modem
Pace DC501P Digital Set-top Box

volcano11 · Answer

If you are planning on getting a laptop with a wireless network adapter and want the laptop to connect wirelessly, then you will want to get a wireless router. Unless you plan on frequently transferring large files between computers there is not need to get a high speed router (Super G or Pre-N) as these will not speed up the internet connection since the speed will be limited by the cable connection. You will see no speed degradation on your cable connection when using a router. Wired or wireless routers from Linksys, D-Link, Netgear, and Belkin are often recommended on these forums.

Steve

joe53 · Answer

Thanks for the prompt reply, Steve.

I had some concerns over security issues with a wireless router (needless?) and was thinking of the Linksys BEFSX41 seen here. It seems to be the only wired router offered that specifically mentions the word 'firewall'. What do you think- appropriate? Overkill?

volcano11 · Answer

All routers, by their nature, have a firewall. Security is always a concern, but firewalls and encryption (built in to wireless routers, but need to be activated by the user) greatly reduce the risk.

Steve

joe53 · Answer

Much obliged, Steve. joe

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Advice on a router

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