The Linksys WRT54GS Wireless-G Broadband Router is a fantastic piece of kit which makes home networking a piece of cake. And the fact it comes with an adaptor card as well as the router means you're ready to go as soon as you get home. It's got an array of networking and security features, is fast and works well both with 802.11g and 802.11b connections. As well as an easy to use device it comes with simple setting up instructions and a fantastic call-centre help line. |
Setup/Installation
Things couldn't be made simpler. In most cases you simply plug thing in the wireless network, switch your computer on, and things will start happening on their own. However should this not happen you have a choice of either reading the instructions or following the step-by-step setup on disk. They tell you everything from where wires should go to configuring your computers so that the network works with the router. Unlike some products there were good diagrams to follow and also explanations on what terms meant such as what your dynamic IP addressing was and what to do if provider used different formats. There will be things that the guide doesn't cover, but no instructions are never going to cover every eventuality. All-in-all it shouldn't take too long to set up and within minutes your home network will be operating wirelessly. |
Features
The most important thing in our books is security. And Linksys provides great security. You can configure your network using WEP or WPA. There's a removable antennas which means should you want more power you can add an additional one to give you greater range. It has browser-based configuration tools giving you access to the routers networking and security settings such as DHCP server and firewall setting and wireless encryption setting. |
Performance
We really like the WRT54G. It's easy to set up, and connection speed is good and security was great. If you want to be able to access the Internet on several devices around the house, the Linksys is a good device. |
Service and support
Service is indubitably the best. The product comes with a 24/7 free support phone number, with call centres in India and Thailand who are very helpful and lead you through every bit of the set up. There's also an excellent online support service with information on solutions, drivers, firewall and live chat with a member of the support staff team. |
Overall Opinion
Everything about the Linksys WAG354G wireless kit is simple. From the design of the box, to setting up, through to getting the security sorted, it's all easy. Within five minutes you can have a wireless network set up in your home. And if you do run into difficulties, you've got help at hand. |
