Having Trouble With Linksys Wireless Equipment

[DngrMouse]

I've been using a WUSB11 wireless adapter upstairs and their wireless router with build in access point downstairs. It worked perfectly for about 9 months then it just went to hell. The connection would seemingly randomly just drop (not downstairs with the computer wired to the computer, just the wireless connected computer via adapter). We replaced the adapter with a newer version, I couldn't even get it to work at all. Went back to the old one, replaced the router, seemed to be working well now it's just go so slow.

If the new adapter would work it would be faster I think because the one I have now is somewhat broken as it fell from my deck and the antennae came loose but it still seems to work.

Linksys tech has no idea what the problem is. The connection is staying stable at least with the new router but now its incredibly slow.

 

[DngrMouse]

I reinstalled the driver and software and now it is running much faster. For whatever reason. The wireless configuration tool doesn't show up at all and I can't use it however... it is running in memory.

 

[JackMDS]

Two aspects to the issue.

1. Linksys in general is good, but the only Wireless gizmo they can be proud about is the WAP11.

2. Changes in the environment. Major changes in the environment can block or reduce the signal. Adding transmitting devices like cordless telephone could do it too. If you reside in an apartment complex, it could be the neighbor next door adding transmitting devices to his home.

Entry Level Wireless always involves a level of gambling.

Have a nice Thanksgiving.

 

[orion7144]

JackMDS, So what do you recommend for home wireless?

 

[JackMDS]

The way I see it:

Wireless is depending heavily on the environment. I.e. The distance of the Client from the Base station (Wireless Router or Access Point), and the nature of the surrounding obstructions.

One or two walls, and 20-30' all of them should work OK. More walls, longer distance, and or noisy RF environment, you will need the "Upper End" of the Entry level Wireless Hardware.[/b]

If you go for broke you buy the inexpensive of the week at a Mega store (on Sale Rebate etc.). Install, and try if it covers your environment.

Does not work return. The Wireless manufactures are not stating distance in terms of real life, thus buying a set, and returning it due to lack of coverage, makes sense.

In case El Cheappo does not work for you.

For the Laptop I would get the Orinoco Gold Client Card.

Example: ORINOCO GOLD PCCARD PCMCIA 802.11B CLIENT W/128 BIT ENCRYPTION

For a moderate price the Linksys WAP11 is good choice.

Linksys WAP11

For real Entry level Power: ORINOCO AP-200 LOW COST ACCESS POINT FOR HOME OR SOHO OFFICE

For Wireless Router I would go with the SMC Barricade, or Netgear.

If the Entry Level not suffices I would look into the Cisco Wireless. It is a leap in performance as well as the amount of money spent.

An Interesting late addition is the D-Link 900AP+ it is the most flexible Entry Level AP on the market (can work like a repeater with firmware 2.2). A combo of the 900AP+ and a matching PCMCIA Airplus 650+ is currently selling (with rebate) for a little more then $100. If you are lucky and it is covering your range it will run 22Mb/sec.

Primer to the Topic here:

AnandTech - FAQ. What do I need for wireless Networking?

 

[orion7144]

Thanks