Do I need a wireless Router?

Question

I have 2 PCs in my home network that are connected to the internet via a cable modem and a 5-port workgroup switch, a Linksys EZXS55W. I decided to buy a router in order to (a) get more firewall protection and (b) allow me to add additional PCs, such as my work PC. I went to Best Buy and bought the Linksys Wireless-G WRT54G for $83 since I thought I may add a wireless PC in the next year. It also has 4 ethernet ports and a SPI firewall.

Question is am I better off being a cheaper non-wireless now instead of the wireless? If so, what you recommend? If OK to stay with the wireless, do you think the model I got is good, or will it be outdated by the time I am ready to expand?

My base PC is a Dell XPS T600, 384k Ram, wIn 98se. The other PC is a Dell Dim 1.2Ghz, 256k Ram, win Me.

johnallg · Answer

You asked very good questions.  Given the march of wireless advances, it is most probable the wireless would not be the best if not used for a year for wireless.  While $83 is not a lot, consider you can get a cable/DSL wired router for $29.  I would also recommend if you choose to keep the wireless, to turn off the wireless portion until you need it to remove the possibility of being hacked.  It also saves heat wear and tear on the wireless card inside.

TallTex · Answer

OK- thx. If I keep the wireless router, how do I set it up? Should I replace the switch that I am currently using? Any other issues?

I am also currently using ZoneAlarm as my firewall. Should I keep that or can I get rid of it?

johnallg · Answer

Use the router as the interface between the network and the modem (cable or DSL).  Then if you need more LAN connections use the existing switch to expand LAN connection possibilities out of a LAN port on the router.  This is what I do.

MemphisTF13 · Answer

Talltex,

All of that above is good advice. As far an answer to whether you should keep Zonealarm, I say yes. Routers are designed to keep unwanted incoming Internet traffic out, but do little to control outgoing traffic, such as which programs are accessing the Internet. Zonealarm is pretty good at letting you know what programs are trying to get out to the Internet, which is handy if you're concerned about Trojans, spyware, and other rogue programs. Plus there's nothing wrong with having a backup software firewall to supplement your router/NAT firewall functions. Hope that answers your questions.

Scott

Dell Inspiron 5150 Notebook
Pentium 4 3.6 GHZ w/HT
512 MB Ram, 60 GB HD @ 7200 RPM
Windows XP Pro (Wireless)

Message Edited by MemphisTF13 on 12-21-2003 11:16 PM

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Do I need a wireless Router?

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