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Wireless Router Recommendations

13 years ago

Comcast tech replaced our modem and indicated that our Belkin router is likely causing some of our problems. The router is old and he suggested getting a new wireless router. We have two computers (one MAC and one PC) in the same room and all we use them for is email and surfing the net. He said Linksy, Cisco and NetGear are all good brands.

I went to Best Buy to check on what they had and the ones the salesperson recommended have terrible reviews on line.

I'd be grateful for any advice/help from you folks as I've never been steered wrong.

Thanks

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Comments (7)

iowagirl2006
13 years ago
I had a Cisco router that never would work right with all of our Apple devices. I updated firmware, and that still didn't help. Had to power cycle it all the time to get everything working.

Finally gave up and bought a Belkin and everything works great. Belkin N450. Got it at WalMart for $50.
WalnutCreek Zone 7b/8a
13 years ago
I agree wuith iowagirl regarding Cisco router - we had one that was absolutely worthless. Love the Netgear WNDR 3400 - works with the MacBook Pro, a Windows XP netbook, and a desktop Windows 7 pc.
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Thank you all...I'm going to try it tomorrow. One more question. My set up is in an open cabinet system. My son recommended the router and modem be at the very top of the cabinet. This has always been a problem for me when I have to unplug and reset either the modem or router. Since I am unplugging the equipment anyway I think moving it down one shelf would be better. The wires would not be so tight. And it would be easier to reach...no ladders,etc! So...does the router have to be at the highest point in the room or can it be lower and on an open shelf more within reach. Hiding all the wires was important to me at the time so all the wires are behind the three unit cabinets. Since I seem to have frequent issues I can't worry about that anymore! So I guess the new router won't recognize the settings on the computer? I have to do a new setup as if this is the first time? Sounds easy enough....wish me luck..... Thanks again.
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zep516 - Now that you mention it I have at times (but not at the same time my laptop stopped working on the porch) had modem failures and comcast told me I probably needed to have it replaced. But it works fine for about three weeks and then goes down. So i've been lazy and haven't taken it in to swap it out. Comcast isn't my fav company to deal with. pkponder - I have wracked my brain and the only other thing that I know of that has changed is my ADT system got a trouble light a few weeks ago, maybe around the same time, but ADT told me that checking their records, they haven't had a signal from my home in a year... ADT is also not my favorite company since they continued to bill me. But the security system is wired not wireless, if that makes a difference. It is connected to my Comcast phone service though. mikie - Well, I do have an older, refurbished laptop so that could be possible. There is no way to check the internal reception, is there? And windows update has messed me up on other minor settings before. I will work on the things I have control over like the modem and the ethernet cable and see what happens. You guys (and gal) are awesome.
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owbist
13 years ago
I have used Linksys, Netgear and Dlink with good results.

As you appear to have nothing wireless now I would urge you to make sure it is an 'n' designation which is the most current I believe. Don't let them talk you into a 'g' because it might be cheaper. That way you are prepared when you decide to go with anything that needs a wi-fi connection.
kudzu9
13 years ago
I've used various models of Linksys and Belkin over the years and both have been fine. If you get one from Costco, return will be easy if you have a problem. Alternatively, just go with something on Amazon that gets mainly positive reviews.
juneroses Z9a Cntrl Fl
13 years ago
I added a Linksys E1200 Wireless-N Router 7 months ago, the first router I've ever had. The installation was unbelievably easy.

It's probably available in your local stores at $50-55, or you can get it from Amazon for $30. There are over 1000 reviews of it on Amazon, a large majority of them positive.

Here is a link that might be useful: Linksys router
secsteve
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks all. I really appreciate your input.

I'm leaning towards the Belkin N600 Wireless Dual Band router. I currently own a Belkin and have never had any trouble with it, so figure I'll stick with what I'm happy with.

The downside is all of the reviews without fail mention how bad tech support is no matter what brand you get. I wonder when companies are going to wise up and realize that is one reason folks don't buy their equipment.
big_al_41
12 years ago
I thought Comcast gave you a router when you go with them ...???

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