Nearly every router on the market these days allows connection of up to 4 computers by a wired ethernet connection. Furthermore, it is always a good idea to have at least one computer connected by a wired connection so that you can set up the wireless connection and troubleshoot the wireless connection when you can't connect by wireless. So long as you can connect to a broadband modem by etherent, then just about any router will serve your needs.
On another matter, note that a Pre-N router has proprietary features that will only allow the Pre-N capabities of the router to work with wireless network adapters from the same manufacter. Note also that the adverstised Pre-N speeds will have absolutely no effect on the speed of the internet connection, as broadband internet connections are generally less than about 5 Mbps. So, you might want to reconsider the Pre-N router and save yourself some money by just getting an 802.11b/g router.
To second volcanoe, I would avoid any "802.11N" devices until there is at least a single draft. There are currently two different versions out there and one of them will lose -- even if you make the right guess, say "pre-N" for example, there is no promise that the devices will work with true 802.11n devices when the standard is finalized.
Unless you need the premium speed that these devices offer (for large, wireless file transfers between computers in your home), or the extended range, which is no doubt nice, then give it a couple of years.
If you want to somewhat futureproof yourself, make sure what you buy supports WPA2. It'll make you more secure and you'll at least no it's built with a good chip inside ;-)
volcano11
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28K Posts
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July 10th, 2005 14:00
Nearly every router on the market these days allows connection of up to 4 computers by a wired ethernet connection. Furthermore, it is always a good idea to have at least one computer connected by a wired connection so that you can set up the wireless connection and troubleshoot the wireless connection when you can't connect by wireless. So long as you can connect to a broadband modem by etherent, then just about any router will serve your needs.
On another matter, note that a Pre-N router has proprietary features that will only allow the Pre-N capabities of the router to work with wireless network adapters from the same manufacter. Note also that the adverstised Pre-N speeds will have absolutely no effect on the speed of the internet connection, as broadband internet connections are generally less than about 5 Mbps. So, you might want to reconsider the Pre-N router and save yourself some money by just getting an 802.11b/g router.
Steve
bcat4
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July 10th, 2005 16:00
Steve
Many thanks,excellent advice. Wish I had come here first.
also thank you for the swift response.
bcat4
NemesisDB
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July 10th, 2005 22:00
bcat4
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July 11th, 2005 04:00