Netgear has used Atheros' Super-G chipset for its new 108Mbits/sec model. It incorporates a built-in ADSL modem, which saves you linking up an external modem. It's also upgradeable to the upcoming ADSL 2+ standard, which promises broadband speeds up to 24Mbits/sec.
The router can either be laid flat or, using two supports, sat upright to save on space. Setting it up is very easy - in our tests a wizard set up a wireless network and an internet connection in less than five minutes. The rest of the web-based interface is equally impressive.
During testing we got speeds of around 35Mbits/sec when in close vicinity but this tails off fairly rapidly as you stray from the router, dipping to around 15 to 20Mbits/sec as we approached the 20m mark.
At £159, it isn't the cheapest model available and doesn't perform as well as other kit at distances of between 15 and 20m. Nevertheless, it gives you an ADSL modem, wireless access point and a router all in one small device.
You can buy it much cheaper by checking out PCW's Best Prices. We found it for under £100.
Prices:
Router: £159 (£136.16 ex VAT)
PC Card: £59.99 (£51.06 ex VAT)
Contact:
Netgear 01344 397 021
www.netgear.co.uk
See also:
All Routers




