Help Selecting A Wireless Router

Question

Hello All,

I'm the new guy on the block and in need of some help.

I just ordered a Inspiron 5150 today and hopefully, I'll have it within a couple of weeks. I had the "Dell Wireless 3150 (802.11 b/g) Internal Wireless option added. It's my first laptop and I'm anxious to get my fingers on it. I just hope Dell will get it to me sooner than later. Anyway .....

Currently, I'm on DSL utilizing a Wirespeed modem through a LinkSys BEFSR41 router for 2 computers. Now, I will be wanting to add a wireless router as well for my new laptop.

However, I'm totally lost as what router to purchase. I'd like any suggestions or recommendations on a wireless router. Or, what to watch out for. Although I'm pretty computer literate, I know nothing about wireless routers.

Who will step forward to give some suggestions?

Bearw · Answer

Since you have been using a wired Linksys router and are obviously familiar with it's settings, it would probably be a good idea to get your wireless router from the same manufacturer. Look for a router/firewall with 802.11 g wireless port in addition to 4 regular RJ-45 Ethernet ports.

volcano11 · Answer

I highly the recommend the Linksys WRT54G wireless router. Steve

mattcowger · Answer

The WRT54G is a good router, but I'd recommend the Netgear WGT624 over that one. Its settings and options are equivalent, but its radio is 3 times stronger than the Linksys (100mW vs. 35mW, where more mW is better), which should get you better range and better speed.

W5BLT · Answer

Matt,

Thanks for your recommendation for the Netgear WGT624. My only question would be .... and it may be a dumb question ... is it for sure compatable with the whatever wireless that will come in my laptop.

I like the idea of the extra range. However, it seems to be twice the price. Any suggestions as to a good place to buy it at a good price?

Thanks,

Bob

mattcowger · Answer

Yes, if you buy a Dell with wireless card builtin, it will have, at a minimum, 802.11b, which this router supports. If you buy the 1350 or 2200 card, you'd be able to take advantage of 54MBit speeds. Best price I see is $85 at ajump.com, but search pricewatch and shopper.com as well.

W5BLT · Answer

This one will come with the Dell Wireless 3150 (802.11 b/g). I'm assuming the b/g means that it will run on b or g. So, I hope the one you recommended will run on 'g' as well.

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Help Selecting A Wireless Router

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