The introduction of the latest wireless protocol 802.11g which can run at up to 54mbits opens new possibilities in home networking, many users now have more than one machine and perhaps a laptop or two, networking these devices can bring real benefit and freedom from being locked away in the study.

Linksys are known for their networking products and the latest wireless 802.11g router combines a wireless access port that also offers a 4 port Ethernet switch and firewall, typically most products offer only the wireless access point without the firewall and router linksys put them in one unit.

The unit utilises WEP encryption to protect your network either 64mbit or 128 and also a VPN facility which can be accessed from the advanced wireless tab, although this may be overkill for most domestic users its a good feature for a small business or home office that needs to be secured. The units main networking tab controls DHCP, MAC addresses and NAT, the quick start guide will help you get up and running but it is worth reading more to fully understand the functions of the unit especially to apply the encryption. The MAC address section allows to build a list of allowed devices, as a form of security this is excellent and simple to administer, typically you only need to connect one machine via the wired ports to setup from then on everything else can be administered wirelessly.

In terms of performance the linksys54g is about three times faster than an 802.11b device obtaining real world speeds of 20mbits, which is plenty considering that most home DSL or ADSL connections are only 512k, but if you intend to stream audio or even video around your home network this speed increase is essential. Linksys have ensured that the WRT54G is backwards compatible with 802.11b as that standard allows, so you don't have to rush out and upgrade your access cards or throw away units with inbuilt cards.

Overall this is a compact and powerful broadband router at an attractive price point, the 54g technology ensures that it is up to date in terms of protocol and yet it will work with your existing kit, in short if you want to free your home from wires or share your connection this could be for you.

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