router advice

hi
i'm considering setting up a wireless network in my flat next year so we can share the internet connection between minimum of 3 laptops, possibly a desktop too. Posted in hardware forum because I want advice on what router would be best for my needs. Would want the desktop to be wired LAN, with router in same room as the desktop (minimal cat5/6 cable that way - and cable wanted to get max speed rather than wireless). wireless range would need tyo be large enough to reach around most of the flat (3 bedrooms and lounge area) and some of the outside. distance would be around 50m max, more like 25m, remembering that walls will be in the way. Would have to be type G rather than B or N. Would prefer a firewall in the router (is this normal for routers?). Also what would be best encryption system to use for home use - bearing in mind there are 5 other flats in the building, and obviously don't want them poaching bandwidth. Oh and router would need built-in modem.

Well obviously gonna have to do some market research, but just wanted some advice on what not to go for and vice versa. Also if anyone is using similar setup, possibly recommend a product?

regards
Nathan

 

I would check out Linksys products. I've had a WRT54G (no modem) for about 2 years and it has been pretty bulletproof. 1 wired PC and at least 3 wireless. The distance will depend heavily on the placement of router and interference factors; wall construction, appliances, wireless phones, etc. You could possibly get larger antennas for more distance. Just my 2 cents.

 

I am a big fan of the Linksys WRT series. Grab yourself a WRT54GL (these are identical to the first generation WRT54G). They have 16mb of RAM onboard, which allow you to run any of the various 3rd party open source firmware available.

I am running DD-WRT on a WRT54GL, and its the best router I have experienced so far. The firmware upgrade was very simple, and it enabled tons of options, including enhancing the wireless transmission rate to get higher signals (increased distance)

 

thanks LbMest and InYearsToCome. Will definitely check out those Linksys WRT's and see if I can get one in my part of the world (NZ) for decent price.

 

btw is the WRT54GL a modem too?

 

Here's a link to check out - http://www-nz.linksys.com/servlet/S...388888&pagename=Linksys/Common/VisitorWrapper

Look's like that 54GL has no modem function.

 

No, it is not a modem. In my experience, you're much better off having a separate modem and router than a combo unit