Need New Cable Router

[cmort666]

I've been using my aunt's old Linksys router since we cleaned out her house in Chicago a few years ago.

Those routers have a known issue with lockups if too much data is pushed through the switch on the LAN side. That I know of, Cisco never really fixed the problem after they acquired Linksys. It has the latest available firmware installed.

I'm looking to replace it with a good, stable unit. My requirements:

Stability - no lockups
Good compatibility with software VPNs
Good port forwarding capabilities
Good firewall capabilities
At least four port 100mb built in switch

It doesn't have to have wireless (N) capability, but that's ok if it doesn't add excessively to the cost.

Any suggestions (especially if you have direct experience with the product) would be appreciated.

 

[bgrafsr]

Hmmm, I have had a Linksys for several years and never had a problem. I also have not heard about the lockup problem either.

 

[cmort666]

Hmmm, I have had a Linksys for several years and never had a problem. I also have not heard about the lockup problem either.

This is an OLD router.

The lockup problem was common to the BEFSR series. It was discussed in depth on DSLReports (now BroadbandReports).

 

[cobra44]

Any of the newer routers are pretty good. I have installed many different brands, and they all function really well.
I know what you mean about the older routers, ran into that problem myself.
The wireless routers are more expensive, but most of the 4 port routers are wireless.
Most cable companies have certain models that they use. Check with them and see what they are selling or leasing or would suggest and take it from there.

 

[JayBird686]

Steer clear of Belkin. Nothing but junk.

 

[oldafsp]

I bought a Cisco 802.11n last year and love it.

Awesome performance.

 

[sheriffoconee]

I use a Mac Airport Extreme at home....I love it...better coverage than the lynksys it replaced, easy simple set up...

 

[imashooter2]

I recently upgraded a Netgear WGR614L to a Netgear WNR3500L and was shocked at the increase in performance. Even an old Dell laptop PII with a G card got better than 3 times faster download speed. The hard wired boxes and N laptops all run at the limits of the provider. Setup was simple and the system hasn't failed or locked up in the five months I've been running it. I really find the network shared storage very convenient as well. Best money I've spent in a long time...

 

[writerinmo]

I've got an old Linksys WRT54g, had it like forever, run five computers through it most evenings, two of them gaming, never had a bit of problem with it locking up, every once in a while I have to restart it because it doesn't want to let one of the laptops access the wireless, really can't complain overall on it.

 

[doublesharp]

I bought a Vizio router at Sam's about a year ago and it has been rock solid. About $60, easy to set up, N capable, has 4 wired ports and the range is good.