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View Full Version : Wireless AP Recommendation/Conversion


rnzinser
09-18-2009, 09:47 AM
Hello all, first time posting here

I am looking for a new wireless solution for my PC. I currently have a LinkSys WMP54G wireless adapter, and have run into some problems. I made the switch from XP 32-bit to Windows 7 RC 64-bit, and am experiencing some frequent connection problems, especially in games. Additionally, as I have come to realize, the adapter I have only supports WPA, while our network is WPA2 protected, likely adding some problems to the mix.

I looked extensively for another wireless adapter with solid 64-bit OS support, but can only find mixed reviews. I decided it would probably be easier to utilize a wireless AP/bridge to connect my PC to our wireless network.

Our current router is an Apple AirPort Express Base Station with 802.11n and AirTunes, http://store.apple.com/us/product/MB321/AirPort-Express-AirTunes

The router is about 10-15 ft away through 1 internal wall (just sheet-rock)

I was hoping you guys could help me make a decision on which AP/bridge/converted router* would be best for me. I think I need an N router because I often stream HD content, and game, both requiring high bandwidth.

*How difficult/reliable is converting a router to an AP, I am familiar with most computer hardware, save for routers.

Here are some options I have been looking at;

BUFFALO WLI-TX4-AG300N Nfiniti Wireless-N Dual Band Ethernet Converter - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833162029

BUFFALO WHR-G300N IEEE 802.11b/g, IEEE 802.11n Draft 2.0 Nfiniti Wireless Router & Access Point - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833162026

LINKSYS WGA600N IEEE 802.11a/b/g, IEEE802.11n Draft Ethernet Port Dual-Band Wireless-N Gaming Adapter Security features: WEP, WPA WPA2 with TKIP OR AES, WPS Security key bits: 256 bits - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833124279

TRENDnet TEW-647GA IEEE 802.11b/g, IEEE 802.11n Draft 2.0 Ethernet Port Wireless Gaming Adapter Up to 300Mbps Wireless Data Rates 64/128-bit WEP (Hex & ASCII), WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK (AES/TKIP) - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833156258

I know I need to have WPA2, and preferably N, dual band is not too big of a concern, but seeing as I am very close to the router, it could be beneficial to use a 5GHz frequency because I live in an apartment with numerous wireless networks close by.

I would appreciate any and all help, thanks

thiggins
09-18-2009, 12:28 PM
Routers are easy to convert to APs. How To Convert a Wireless Router into an Access Point (http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/content/view/30338/228/). But they will not act as bridges.

If you want 5 GHz only, consider the NETGEAR WNHDE111 (http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/content/view/30333/96/).

For dual-band the Cisco/Linksys WGA600N (http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/content/view/30869/96/), and WET610N (http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/content/view/30778/96/).

Haven't tested either the Trendnet or Buffalo products.

rnzinser
09-18-2009, 12:49 PM
Thanks! I decided on the Cisco/LinkSys WGA600N, its simple and from the reviews and comments, seems like the easiest one to connect.