draft-n

Belkin to release new networking products

This story has been updated. Other vendors, such as Netgear or Slingmedia also, offer multiple-port PowerLine adapters.

I remember Belkin was the first vendor who sent us a Pre-N router, the Belkin Wireless Pre-N Router way back in 2004. Ever since, it hasn't been the most prolific vendor in wireless networking in comparison with D-Link, Linksys, or Netgear.

However, I've learned recently that in October Belkin is releasing a few new networking products, including the all new Belkin N+ Wireless Router and the Powerline AV+.

According to Belkin's Web site, the new router will have network storage … Read more

Get an 802.11n home router for $28.99 shipped (after rebate)

If your home network can't quite reach all corners or you need faster throughput for file copying or video streaming, it might be time to consider a router upgrade. Buy.com has the TRENDnet TEW-632BRP Wireless N Home Router on sale for $28.99 shipped (after a $15 mail-in rebate).

In case you're unfamiliar with it, the new 802.11 Wi-Fi standard (currently known as Draft-N) promises better range and faster throughput. The TEW-632BRP is backwards-compatible with older 802.11 hardware and comes with four Ethernet ports, two external antennas, and the usual raft of security features.

Bear … Read more

Trendnet makes it a snap to upgrade to Draft N

It's hard to find laptop that doesn't have built-in Wi-Fi these days. As a matter of fact, if you buy a new and relatively high-end model, such as the Dell XPS M1330 (which I have and really like), chances are your laptop even has built-in 802.11n card.

Even though the new N specification (officially called Draft N 2.0) is not yet ratified as a standard, more people are taking advantage of this specification for throughput gain. In theory, the N specification can offer speed up to 300Mbps, that's three times of the regular wired connection. … Read more

Amp your home network with Netgear 802.11n router, $29.99

If you've been itching to hop on the 802.11n bandwagon but discouraged by the high prices of the routers, CompUSA has a sweet deal: A refurbished Netgear WNR834B Wireless N Router for $29.99 (plus shipping).

In case you're unfamiliar with it, the new 802.11 Wi-Fi standard (currently known as Draft-N) promises better range and faster throughput. The WNR834B is backwards-compatible with older 802.11 hardware. It comes with five Ethernet ports, three internal antennas, built-in quality-of-service (QoS) features, and, because it's a refurb, a measly 30-day warranty.

CNET gave the router a reasonably good review, … Read more

Two new-look Linksys routers

Linksys added two new Draft N routers to its Ultra RangePlus line that couldn't look more different from the company's tried-and-true design. The WRT160N and the WRT310N ditch the outdated Linksys blue facing and introduce curves to case, while also doing away with those pesky antennas (these MIMO routers use internal antennas). They boast a sleek look and are priced right. The WRT160N costs $100, while the WRT310N adds Gigabit Ethernet for a reasonable $130. The two routers will also begin shipping with an updated version of the Linksys EasyLink Advisor (LELA) configuration software, which helps end users … Read more

Linksys debuts a Draft N router for gamers

At the CES 2007 Pepcom event tonight, Linksys unveiled the first Draft N router that we've seen optimized for gamers. The WRT330N combines Linksys' Draft N technology with four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports and one Gigabeat Ethernet WAN port. In addition, its Quality of Service implementation prioritizes gaming packets for smoother play. It supports PC and game consoles, online gaming, online multiplayer role-playing games and online head-to-head gaming. The QoS implementation can also improve VoIP and Web cam performance. Even the exterior, with its sleek black design, should appeal to gamers.

Security features include WPA2, WPA, and WEP; an … Read more