Need a good router

[electronicsfreak]

Ok im currently using a cheap network everywhere router.

http://www.networkeverywhere.com/products/nr041.asp

The problem with it is if I have a friend over and we both try to connect to half life 2 deathmatch, it causes us both to freeze and get disconnected. Ive upgraded the firmware on it, made sure ports were open, etc..

So what im wanting to know is what would be a good router that can handle home gaming? I later on do plan on getting a switch, but I need a router that can handle a couple of people at least.

Oh another thing, if someone could explain all the details or a site that has them so I know what to look for. I understand a lot about them but still list what you know as there is a lot I dont know. Thanks!


So what is your guys take on this?



There is a point in wisdom and knowledge that when you reach it, you exceed what is considered possible - Jason Schoon

 

[tazuk]

I've been pretty happy with my Linksys WRT54GS v4 on a cable connection - was 512 currently 4mb. I've had it a couple of years and (when I used to game on a wirelessly connected PC) it gave me no issues with City of Heroes, Dark Ages of Camelot and the like.

Currently it has multiple devices using it (PS3, Bubba linux server via wireless bridge, laptop, desktop and nabaztag) without any noticeable issues.

It isn't the latest tech so should be reasonably priced. I've heard rumour that later versions (above v4) were hamstrung by a reduction in RAM etc so you may want to avoid any later models. It will also run GPL'd firmware if that sort of thing floats your boat. See wikipedia for more information.

Overall it's an "install and forget" piece of kit - I installed one for my dad when he went broadband a year or so ago and he hasn't had to touch it since. I've only had to reboot mine once due to a cable modem issue.

Reviews wise I tend to use Trusted Reviews to id potential kit then hit the forums to search for known issues encountered by other users.


TazUk

Programmer An organism that turns coffee into software.
Unknown Author

 

[kmcferrin]

Linksys and Netgear both make good broadband routers. I've used both with only one issue on the Netgear, and that was on the RT311 (the very first model consumer broadband router they made) with early firmware. I've used several Netgear models since with no issues.

 

[ATLMatt]

I have been very happy so far with my Linksys WRT54GL, paid about $60 (US). 4 port switch +WAN port, works great with my DSL using PPOE, broadband is even easier to setup with Linksys. The wireless is solid, I have a great connection with the laptop anywhere in the house, WPA2 security works good, easy setup, even with a 63 character alphanumeric key =D. The most load I have had on it so far is 3 PCs wired, one laptop wirelessly, with 3 people steaming media and one playing a MMO.

Before that I had a cheap Netgear wired router, it has done great as well, I had 3 people playing World of Warcraft on it no problem. You probably won't need a switch with it, unless you plan on having a LAN party with more than 4 wired users.

 

[electronicsfreak]

Well ill try one of the linksys when I get money. I use wired though not wireless but nice to see their wireless working fine. I had actually heard their wireless when put under pressure liked to break. Either way I dont use wireless at my house, always wired. Thanks

There is a point in wisdom and knowledge that when you reach it, you exceed what is considered possible - Jason Schoon

 

[wahnula]

Have you looked to see if there's a firmware upgrade to your current router? My SMC was choking on my VPN until I flashed its firmware, now it's fine.

Another option would be to go with a dedicated Wireless Access Point instead of a combined WAP+router. Call tech support, they may or may not tell you the truth, but the radios in wireless routers are generally watered-down WAPs. I proved it in real-world testing, comparing Linksys, D-Link, Netgear and SMC wireless routers to a D-link DWL-2100 dedicated wireless access point. Not even close. So, I added a D-link 8-port gigabit switch and connected the WAP vis x-over cable. It covered the whole office (tin double-wide trailer) but I decided to add a second WAP closer to the front to boost access times.

Another thing to consider is to stick with one company for everything: WAP, router, wireless card etc. Some companies have enhanced capabilities (108mbps yeah right) when you stick to their products. Plus, when time comes for support, they can't blame the other guy. D-link is my choice.

Oh BTW my Linksys developed a problem in their proprietary power connector (a multi-pin nightmare) requiring me to position it just so to get it to work. The day the D-link switch arrived I tossed it to the bottom of the lake and took great delight watching it sink.

Tony

 

[electronicsfreak]

Yes ive upgraded the firmware, also I do not use wireless. I am not using wireless. I am using wired. I do not plan on going wireless as I hate it. As for dlink, yeah I already found a router im going to get by dlink. Im currently using a dlink cable modem.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833127060

That will be the router im getting.

There is a point in wisdom and knowledge that when you reach it, you exceed what is considered possible - Jason Schoon

 

[wahnula]

Good for you. Sounds like a packet-prioritization box and I hope you get what you want, 4 ports is a little thin these days but you know your needs better that me.

Check this out, same part number, over 10% less:

http://www.directron.com/dgl4100.html

Tony

 

[electronicsfreak]

Yeah it only has 4 ports but im not concerned with that as later on im buying a 24 port dlink switch. Also appreciate the link, whichever is cheaper when I get the money lol. Be a while though as college funds that are leftover is my source of income right now. Although might be borrowing sooner or later as my router just locked up while i was in a game lol.

There is a point in wisdom and knowledge that when you reach it, you exceed what is considered possible - Jason Schoon

 

[electronicsfreak]

Just for adding on to this thread lol, heres a switch im looking at.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817111014

There is a point in wisdom and knowledge that when you reach it, you exceed what is considered possible - Jason Schoon

 

[MaxEd]

Picked up a buffalo wireless router a few weeks ago for around $30 after a rebate + tax of course. Running a 3rd party firmware on it but haven't really put it through the test yet. Running a Linksys WRT54G router now and it's been solid flashed with the same 3rd party firmware.

-Laughter works miracles.