Amp your home network with Netgear 802.11n router, $29.99
(Credit:
Netgear)
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, though it was nearly two years ago, and Netgear has released several firmware updates since then. If you decide to pick up a WNR834B, make sure you grab the latest firmware.
Given that most Draft-N routers sell for at least $60-70 at the moment (Amazon sells this model for $99 new), I don't expect these to last long. Get one while you can!
Rick Broida, a technology writer for nearly 20 years, is the author of more than a dozen books. In addition to writing CNET's The Cheapskate blog, he oversees BNET's Business Hacks. Rick is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CBS Interactive. Disclosure. Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers. Follow Rick on Twitter at cheapskateblog. 
- by Dickie031234 April 22, 2008 8:57 AM PDT
- Beware, I bought this router and it did not come with a setup disk because it was refurbished. I couldn;t get it to work properly, I called for support from NetGear, they wouldn't give me support except email. How do you describe setup issues and weid things happening in an email. I trashed it, ate the 40 bucks and bought a linksys which was plug and play. Beware of trfurbished produce that may require support, very disatisfied!!!!!!
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