help with wireless router (wireless noob)

[Smilie]

Hi

im looking to for a wireless router
so i can connect a PC which is downstairs
and quite far from my network hub

i want to get a router so i can replace my hub (been using Windows internet connection sharing)

as i never been intrested in wireless (always think they are slow)
so i dont know much about them

is there much differance between the 54mbps and 108mbps or whatever??
as i heard they are still slower campared to 100mbps wired connections

whats those 802.11b/802.11g etc specification??
are those speeds specifications or something else??

i on NTL 10mb connection
what speed/specifications do i need if i want the wireless PC to use 10mb??

i only been using the wireless for the PC downstairs (maybe alittle NintendoDS)
and it would only be using to stream videos and browse the internet
and i also need 4 10/100 network ports (actually need 3)

can any1 help me choose 1??
would be better if its those bundles with a USB
what do people reccommend??

[popper]

Originally Posted by Smilie

Hi

im looking to for a wireless router
so i can connect a PC which is downstairs
and quite far from my network hub

i want to get a router so i can replace my hub (been using Windows internet connection sharing)

as i never been intrested in wireless (always think they are slow)
so i dont know much about them

is there much differance between the 54mbps and 108mbps or whatever??
as i heard they are still slower campared to 100mbps wired connections

whats those 802.11b/802.11g etc specification??
are those speeds specifications or something else??

i on NTL 10mb connection
what speed/specifications do i need if i want the wireless PC to use 10mb??

i only been using the wireless for the PC downstairs (maybe alittle NintendoDS)
and it would only be using to stream videos and browse the internet
and i also need 4 10/100 network ports (actually need 3)

can any1 help me choose 1??
would be better if its those bundles with a USB
what do people reccommend??

right,
11b is 11mbits/s
11g is 54 mbits/s (really 22mbits/s)
11g+ is as you might guess usually double
or 108 m/bit/s

the ntl is nearly 10mbit/s after taking out
some protocol stuff and so on so loking at the No's
you could get away with even the really old 11b.

if i were you i wouldnt today get anything other than
an 11g+ unit, it doesnt really matter which one as long
as your talking your standard house size, just anything
in the next to lowest price range, id say around the 50
or 60 UKP range should do fine, make sure that you also
get a matching PCI or pcmcia/cardbus card of the same make
so as to make sure that they both talkto each other for maximum speed as its common that different makes will
drop the the slower 54mbit/s speed if they cant make that
initial connection at the better 11g+ first time.

if you really must have a USB wireless 11g+ card then
they will still work but it will effect throughput no matter
what the box/salesman says so try to avoid them were
a pci or pcmcia/cardbus (latop connection) exists.

dont forget that if you intend to totally replace the
current switch/wired router then you will also need
a wireless card for your main machine thats acting as the gateway , the one pluged directly into the ntl modem as well.

so you have the ntl modem pluged into the new wireless router , the pci wirless card installed into the main machine,
and the machine downstairs has yet another pci wireless card
or inthe case of a laptop, a pcmcia/cardbus wireless 11g+ card.

look at the new wireless router manual and you will find in there a no. like 192.168.0.1 or something possibly the 10.0.0.1 range and they will expect you to type that no. into one of your wireless machines browsers such as http://192.168.0.1 to access the wireless routers internal mini web server so you can change the default setting and so on.

if you dont know were to start just checkout one of the catalog shops and see whats there and ask again for simplicity, just remember ignore anything thats not 11g+ or if moneys tight, consider 11g , nothing slower.

[MovedGoalPosts]

Some recommendations for routers. Linksys seems to be quite popular around here.

To work successfully wiht 10mbps you need the 11g standard, and could consider the enhanced g standards if you wished. As the speed of internet browsing ans stuff is limited byu your boradband the only beneift of the enhanced speeds would be if you move files and stuff within your network.

Often wireless networks don't quite make it at teh ful stated speed, due to local interference, range of transmission etc. The 11b standard gives you no margin if things are a tad slow.

As for cards in the PC, as indicated above, PCI will operate better as USB will take resources from your PC. However USB would allow you to move the card a little from your PC if there was a very localised wireless reception dead spot. If you PC has a reasonable spec its unlikley to be critical. If you get an enhanced speed 11g router then make sure your PC card / adaptor supports that enhanced speed.

[Smilie]

been looking at differant routers
does this 1 look anygood??
http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/sto...376&tabIndex=1

also does routers with built in ADSL modem works with NTL??
i havent checked the prices for those
but if the prices are close
it might be a better idea to buy 1 with built in ADSL modem
so if in the future change to ADSL i can still use the router

[Graham M]

Originally Posted by Smilie

also does routers with built in ADSL modem works with NTL??
i havent checked the prices for those
but if the prices are close
it might be a better idea to buy 1 with built in ADSL modem
so if in the future change to ADSL i can still use the router

No. ADSL Modem Routers will not work with NTL.

[popper]

Originally Posted by Smilie

been looking at differant routers
does this 1 look any good??
http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/sto...376&tabIndex=1

i'v just done a search for that router and i cant say it looks like its good, but you can at least put a linux firmware on it
as for the price , as usual pcworld are ripping people off at £79.99, i found it as low as £49.50 or even better elseware, and lumbering you with a USB card that i told you to avoid were possible.
check through some of the openwrt site for good kit then try and
find that kit near ou if your willing to put that effort in it will work out better for you, as even if you never get tec with the kit they like using
you can be sure that if these people are using it then it will work as advertised at the very least.
Atheros chips are generally good, but VxWorks OS is known to be
rather bad and drags lots of stuff down, shame we cant have
qnx RTP as a commercial OS for these types of things so linux
were possible is the better option if you like playing and turning your
wireless box into a fully fledged mini computer and run your pick
of apps directly on the thing (if you like sort of hobby).

http://wiki.openwrt.org/OpenWrtDocs/...Netgear/WGT624
the WGT624 is based on an Atheros System on a Chip (Soc). It got a ar2312a MIPS processor. There is an ongoing process porting OpenWRT to this chip: AtherosPort
1.1. Specs for WGT624 Rev1

• Atheros Product Name: Atheros AR5001AP
• CPU: AR2312A-00
• Flash: 4MB
• RAM: 16MB
• Switch: Marvell
  <LI class=gap>One Antenna (2db)
• 1 WAN-Ports
• 4 LAN-Ports
• Powersupply: 5V

Some photos are here: http://home.fhtw-berlin.de/~s0502837/wgt624/
------------------------
http://www.wi-fitechnology.com/Wi-Fi...0000C0XS0.html
User Reviews:Unbelievably bad product.
If there was a 0 star(s) option, I would have chosen it.
This router accepts both hard-wired and wireless connections, however after connecting it, my hard-wired connection speed dropped by 40%. I stuck it out for a few days hoping it would get better, or that it was some glitch, but finally I unplugged it and reverted to my previous router (also Netgear), and the speed returned.

I would expect a slowdown with wireless vs wired, but I would not expect such a degradation of throughput with my wired connections.

[...]

also does routers with built in ADSL modem works with NTL??
i havent checked the prices for those
but if the prices are close
it might be a better idea to buy 1 with built in ADSL modem
so if in the future change to ADSL i can still use the router

well you could use an ADSL (conti to what they asy above but it would'nt
work as you'd expect as the main WAN port is generally set as the ADSL port
and so not usable for that purpose when used with ntl's cable modem, so in your case
dont even think any more about using an ADSL unless you have a need and use right now,
it will save you headaches and i dont think id be taking time out to help there LOL
-------------------
heres one of many options for ntl:
the Netgear - WGT634U 108 Mbps Wireless Media Router looks
like a better option if just for the built in USB interface so you
can plug usb harddrives and keyring-drives into it

Netgear - WGT634U 108 Mbps Wireless Media Router
Main Specifications

• <LI class=small>Product Description: NETGEAR WGT634U 108 Mbps Wireless Storage Router - wireless router <LI class=small>Device Type: Wireless router <LI class=small>Form Factor: External <LI class=small>Dimensions (WxDxH): 17.5 cm x 11.9 cm x 2.8 cm <LI class=small>Weight: 0.3 kg <LI class=small>Localisation: United Kingdom <LI class=small>Data Transfer Rate: 108 Mbps <LI class=small>Frequency Band: 2.4 GHz <LI class=small>Routing Protocol: RIP-1, RIP-2, static IP routing <LI class=small>Data Link Protocol: Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, 802.11 Super G <LI class=small>Network / Transport Protocol: TCP/IP, PPTP, L2TP, IPSec, PPPoE <LI class=small>Included Accessories: Vertical stand <LI class=small>Features: Firewall protection, routing, auto-sensing per device, DHCP support, NAT support, auto-uplink, Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI), DoS attack prevention, content filtering, dynamic DNS server, manageable, VPN passthrough <LI class=small>Compliant Standards: IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Super G <LI class=small>Power: AC 230V ( 50 GHz ) <LI class=small>System Requirements: Microsoft Windows NT, Microsoft Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP
• Manufacturer Warranty: 2 years warranty

Extended Specifications

General

• <LI class=small>Depth: 11.9 cm <LI class=small>Device Type: Wireless router <LI class=small>Form Factor: External <LI class=small>Height: 2.8 cm <LI class=small>Localisation: United Kingdom <LI class=small>Weight: 0.3 kg
• Width: 17.5 cm

Aerial

• Antenna Qty: 1

Environmental Parameters

• <LI class=small>Humidity Range Operating: 10 - 90% <LI class=small>Max Operating Temperature: 40 °C
• Min Operating Temperature: 0 °C

Expansion / Connectivity

• Interfaces: 1 x Hi-Speed USB - 4 PIN USB Type A ¦ 1 x network - Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX - RJ-45 ( WAN ) ¦ 4 x network - Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX - RJ-45 ¦ 1 x network - Radio-Ethernet

Manufacturer Warranty

• <LI class=small>Service & Support Details: Limited warranty - 2 years
• Service & Support: 2 years warranty

Networking

• <LI class=small>Compliant Standards: IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Super G <LI class=small>Connectivity Technology: Wireless, wired <LI class=small>Data Link Protocol: Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, 802.11 Super G <LI class=small>Data Transfer Rate: 108 Mbps <LI class=small>Features: Firewall protection, routing, auto-sensing per device, DHCP support, NAT support, auto-uplink, Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI), DoS attack prevention, content filtering, dynamic DNS server, manageable, VPN passthrough <LI class=small>Frequency Band: 2.4 GHz <LI class=small>Line Coding Format: DBPSK, DQPSK, CCK, 64 QAM, BPSK, QPSK, 16 QAM, OFDM <LI class=small>Network / Transport Protocol: TCP/IP, PPTP, L2TP, IPSec, PPPoE <LI class=small>Routing Protocol: RIP-1, RIP-2, static IP routing <LI class=small>Spread Spectrum Method: OFDM
• Status Indicators: Port status, link activity, port transmission speed, power, test mode

but the openwrt is a work in progress it seems
http://wiki.openwrt.org/OpenWrtDocs/...etgear/WGT634U

you takes your pick and makes your choice, there are many other
options out there but remember to practice you google-fu and check the openwrt site to see what the pros are using.

remember to have FUN

---------- Post added at 00:37 ---------- Previous post was at 00:02 ----------

ohh and you might like to look into setting up a small community
homewatch or wireless network with your friends down the road or
some such, time to get the old/man/dear involved an active LOL
the Netgear - WGT634U is used as the basis for the roofnet community wireless project here
http://pdos.csail.mit.edu/roofnet/doku.php?id=wgt634u so its a good
basis for any wireless network in my book.

[Smilie]

just saw this at pcworld
http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/sto...g_page=Product
its bundled with a usb
but its real cheap
this works with ntl right??
and is this supposed to be 125mbp??

[popper]

Originally Posted by Smilie

just saw this at pcworld
http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/sto...g_page=Product
its bundled with a usb
but its real cheap
this works with ntl right??
and is this supposed to be 125mbp??

hi smilie.

i can see how you might think this would work given the they put this "DSL Connection for Cable Customers" in their discription but no it wont as its DSL and the word 'cable' should never appear together unless the device has both interfaces, and to add insult its only got a USB connection on it and no rj45/network connectors, so stay well clear of this one, funny though ARGOS has this same
box on their site at the same price.

sorry i cant be more help right now, you do need to find a local shop other than
pcworld (even argos's latest catalog is very weak and lacking non DSL kit)

my local shop seems rather low on 11G+ 108mbit right now but even the cheap
11g 54mbit " says it does 100mbit in the popup if you click it,
ofcourse to use that speed to the other machine(s) in your lan you would need
same brand or compatable cards as already stated.

• NET/RAD-G/ROU/PEAK/4P/ABPK
• PEAK W/LESS B/B ROUTER 4PORT 802.11g 54MB<LI id=MA5569>Manufacturer Peak
• Networking , Wireless , 54 MBs 802.11g

Price PerInc.VATUnit34.99 5 Off32.78 20 Off29.08

as always no garantees , but the popup says "Broadband Wireless Router"
so maybe you can find a local shop near you or ask at mine
http://www.startcomputing.co.uk/pric...rtOrder=420760
iv had lots of no/cheap brand www.peakhardware.com hardware and jetway work just fine over the years so no problem for me or others that took the chance.

hope you get sorted.

p.s anyone interested , it seems the new 11N (300Mbps over-the-air)
kit is starting to ship
although not finalised full spec yet
""At the March 2006 meeting, the IEEE 802.11 Working Group sent the 802.11n Draft to its first letter ballot, which means that the 500+ 802.11 voters get to review the document and suggest bugfixes, changes and improvements."
http://www.dailytech.com/article.aspx?newsid=1647

im a bit disapointed theres still no Mesh (a way the wireless ap's auto connect to each other) as standard 8(

[jrhnewark]

popper - I only know of the WRT54GSUK coming in 'vanilla' variety (e.g. no ADSL modem or any other modem).

Are you sure about this? Product info: http://www-uk.linksys.com/servlet/Sa...VisitorWrapper

Seems no different to what I'd be paying ebuyer.com for for just the router - and the USB adaptor seems fine, if superior due to speedbooster function and the little 'rubber duck' aerial that you don't get with most 'stick' adaptors.

Just looks like the standard WRT54GSUK and the little USB adaptor to me. In fact, I think I'll order one.

Right - ordered. Here's where I find out I'm an idiot as there's something amiss, isn't it?

[popper]

Originally Posted by jrhnewark

popper - I only know of the WRT54GSUK coming in 'vanilla' variety (e.g. no ADSL modem or any other modem).

Are you sure about this? Product info: http://www-uk.linksys.com/servlet/Sa...VisitorWrapper

Seems no different to what I'd be paying ebuyer.com for for just the router - and the USB adaptor seems fine, if superior due to speedbooster function and the little 'rubber duck' aerial that you don't get with most 'stick' adaptors.

Just looks like the standard WRT54GSUK and the little USB adaptor to me. In fact, I think I'll order one.

Right - ordered. Here's where I find out I'm an idiot as there's something amiss, isn't it?

see doh below :8(
you have to be very careful with them product codes (even down to the version No.) as although they may use exactly the same case unmodifyed ports even, the internal PCB and even the OS inside it can and do change without notice, thats why i gave the link to the hackers messageboard as if its not there then eather its really new or theres a problem with it and noones managed or tryed to use it and hence find out all the little details etc.

the Linksys WRT54GS is on the 3rd party firmware hacker site
http://wiki.openwrt.org/OpenWrtDocs/...cs/Hardware%29
i dont know what the difference is between that WRT54GS and the WRT54GSUK you refer to but perhaps the site messageboard will enlighten anyone interested ?.
the http://wiki.openwrt.org/OpenWrtDocs/Hardware list might help anyone interested in finding the nitty-gritty
on quite a few models and versions.

apparently theres a bigger problem with that WUSB54GS he asked about above, as it seems its not even a router but mearly a "Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Speedbooster" .

http://www-uk.linksys.com/servlet/Satellite?c=L_Product_C2&childpagename=UK%2FLayout &cid=1123521948181&pagename=Linksys%2FCommon%2FVis itorWrapper

checkout the datasheet.pdf for it, its just a USB wireless card in a fancy external box.

as can be seen from the WRT54GS v5 example apparently all but the V5 are better boxs
quote from link above:
" WRT54GS v5

NOTE: WRT54GS V5 IS NOT SUPPORTED. IT WILL NEVER BE SUPPORTED. WE ARE SICK OF HEARING ABOUT THE V5!
This version has switched to a proprietary non-Linux OS (VxWorks). It has less flash (2 MB) and less RAM (16 MB). It is unknown at this time if v5 can be supported by OpenWrt. "

remember to always check that exact product code and version, people

edit:
doh.....
i just re-read the original link and now realise that i was zeroing in on the WUSB54GS adapter rather than the WRT54GSUK
sorry about that......
should have taken a little more time there, as above if WRT54GSUK is as the hacker site implys then it may be ok from a
hacker/3rd party firmware upgrade POV, and probably ok from a basic end-user plug it in and use POV, did anyone find out the difference between the WRT54GS and the WRT54GSUK ?.

[jrhnewark]

I don't know of any difference between the GS and the GSUK - only that the UK version will be set to not output more than the statutory 100mW allowed by Ofcom, and maybe one or two other settings.

No, v5 isn't and won't ever be supported due to it running on VxWorks - but try getting PC World or any other bugger to tell you which OS it's running!

It can easily be checked when received anyway - and if it is v5, it's just a case of getting it back to them. They can't stop that happening within seven days of receipt.

WUSB54GS is a bog-standard adaptor, with the added advantage of it being speedbooster compatible.

At the end of the day, if you're after a WRT54GS, you can't be this; let's just hope it's not v5 though!