Upgrade your router to 802.11n for $25 shipped

The Easy-N-Upgrader brings Draft-N performance to your home network.

(Credit: TrendNet)

A while ago, I replaced my 802.11g router with an 802.11n model. Much as I love the faster performance and better range, it saddens me that the old router is collecting dust on a shelf. (Yes, I'm easily saddened.)

To avoid consigning your own router to the same fate, consider an inexpensive upgrade instead of a pricey replacement. Newegg has the Trendnet Easy-N-Upgrader TEW-637AP for just $24.99 shipped.

Designed to piggyback on an existing router, the Easy-N-Upgrader bumps your network's Wi-Fi performance to Draft-N levels (up to 12 times faster than 802.11g, according to Trendnet). It also promises better range, meaning that it may help overcome Wi-Fi "dead spots" in your house.

CNET hasn't covered the Easy-N-Upgrader, but you'll definitely want to read Maximum PC's review. It's quite positive overall (as are the user reviews on Newegg), citing mediocre range as the only real shortcoming.

These are new units, not refurbs, and you don't have to deal with any rebates. If you've been pining for 802.11n performance but didn't want to spend upwards of $100 or more on a new router, this looks to be a terrific solution.

[08Rabbit]

Hey rick, would this improve my range for "g" devices?

[rickbroida]

Definitely. I've got mostly "g" stuff in my house, and the "n" router signal is much stronger.

[WallyChamp]

sweet deal!

[benferrell78]

Man...now I really wish I'd picked up that wireless-n notebook adapter you posted at Christmas!

[clumpkin]

Once again TrendNet does what the "big" network players said was impossible. An inexpensive quality product with current generation specs. Thanks for the heads up.

[Nychocolips]

Here are a few reviews for the product.

http://www.laptopmag.com/review/wifi/trendnet-wireless-easy-n-upgrader.aspx

http://www.thetechzone.com/ttz/index.php/trendnet-tew-637ap-wireless-easy-n-upgrader-review/

http://techgage.com/article/trendnet_tew-637ap_wireless_n_access_point/

[usman9293]

is this compatable with all laptops (a/b/g)?

[eddmarr]

I just checked on mine. It's only compatible with b/g/n. No support for a.

[dfchelbay]

Will this stop me getting kicked off the internet. I have to reset my router between 5-10 per month. I just have to unplug it and plug it back in and I can get back on the internet. I was told that my internet provider was pinging the router, which knocks it off line. Is that true? I travel a lot and use a sling box on my laptop, which is connected to my cable tv back home. If the router is offline, I get no slingbox on the laptop. Since I am out of town I can't reset the router. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[madcow06]

sweet find, I love newegg. Did some researching on it and looks to fit the bill for my needs. Just ordered it, hopefully it gets here by friday so I can post my impressions.

[mobilePCpilot]

Since a lot of people are using Mac Mini's as home theater computer's and downloading movies & TV from Netflix & network web sites. I was wondering if connecting one of these would add 802.11n to the Mac Mini?

[jscott418]

I am skeptical about something that looks like it retailed for $50 and now is $25. Half off? Something must be wrong with it. I can buy a N Router for less then $50 and that will probably drop in the next few months. Right now I have only 1 out of 6 wireless products that could even take advantage of the increased speed and range.

[jmstroy]

Good morning, Rick. I've got an older Actiontec (4-5 years old) wireless modem. Is this product compatible with my modem?

I have HughesNet, which has a router built into the modem. I ordered this and installed it - works perfectly as an Access Point, which is just what I needed. Very easy setup.

[matt119]

I have a Tmoible @home router (10 bucks a month for VOIP service) and was wondering how I could upgrade to draft N speed on my network, since the required Tmobile Linksys router only does G. This little device did it for me. The Tmobile router continues to serve my phones, while the Trendnet access point takes care of my PCs.

[Pauper_Princess]

Just went to site - now $39.99. Did I miss the sale?