"dany" <(E-Mail Removed)> hath wroth:
>I am looking for suggestions about "wireless ADSL modem routers." I
>have read good reviews about Netgear DG834G and LinkSys WAG54G. Any
>experience using these with your ISP broadband ?
>
>Also wondering if it would it be better/cheaper to go with two box
>solution (ADSL modem + wireless broadband router or ADSL modem router +
>wireless access point) instead of all-in-one modem/WLAN/router box ?
Multiple boxes are better than one, but not cheaper (unless you buy a
used DSL modem). I usually recommend seperate boxes instead of
conglomerated all-in-one boxes. Cut-n-pasted from one of my previous
postings (and too lazy to edit).
Just to underscore the point, wireless access points want to live in
open locations, as high as possible, so as to increase the coverage
area. Ceilings and attics are good. So are high bookshelves.
However, wired routers want to live where the wires are located, which
is usually a basement, under a desk, near the floor, or other RF
disgusting location. Unless you enjoy looking at multiple wires
creeping up the wall, these requirements are mutually exclusive.
There are some other advantages to using access points instead of
conglomerated wireless routers. However, I tend to buy wireless
routers and use them as wireless access points. Reasons below.
- The access point can be powered off for additional security when not
in use without affecting the wired router.
- A local bar (pub) tolerates wireless users during off peak hours,
but unplugs the wireless at 6PM when the establishment gets crowded
and table hogs are not appreciated.
- Wireless technology changes literally by the month. Last months
acronyms get replaced by this months fashionable acronyms. By using
seperate boxes, it is possible to upgrade the wireless part, without
affecting the wired part.
- Wireless routers are cheaper than wireless access points because
manufactories sell more wireless routers. This is despite the fact
that wireless routers include a 4 port ethernet switch, while access
points do not.
However...
- Some wireless routers include WDS (wireless distribution service)
which allows extending the network via wireless to both wired and
wireless devices. Some wireless routers and access points also
include a client mode, that allows building workgroups. Since I
prefer to stock as few devices as possible, I tend to buy wireless
routers with as many features as possible, and then use them as access
points. This is normally not a consideration for home users.
As for the included DSL modem, if you ever move and have to switch to
perhaps cable/satellite/wireless, the inability to connect to the
ethernet router section will require replacing the entire box. It's
also impossible to "sniff" the traffic at the router WAN input in a
conglomerated DSL/router/wireless box. However, there is one benifit.
A conglomerate DSL/router/wireless box does allow easy access to the
DSL modem diagnostics and statistics, which shouldn't be necessary
unless you have a truely flakey DSL ISP.
--
Jeff Liebermann
(E-Mail Removed)
150 Felker St #D
http://www.LearnByDestroying.com
Santa Cruz CA 95060
http://802.11junk.com
Skype: JeffLiebermann AE6KS 831-336-2558
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