Linksys or D-Link

[charlietee]

I am setting up a wireless network and am wondering you guys opinions on which wirless routers have the best range.

I have always used Linksys but have heard that the D-Link has much better range.

Any recommendations or advice would be greatly appreciate.

 

[PCHPlayer]

Go read the reviews at places like cnet (other folks can chime in with other sources). Many of these sites have done range tests. Unfortunately each product, even within the manufacturers line of products, has different range characteristics. So asking which manufacturer has better range is not a question that can be answered. I have a Netgear 802.11g access point and it has great range.

 

[imported_bum]

Yesterday I replaced my di-624 with a wrt54g. So far, I'm having packet loss problems with the Linksys. With the D-link, the signal was completely lost at a certain point, but worked fine up to then. With the new Linksys, I have 30-50% packet loss at a shorter range, but don't actually lose the signal for awhile.

In short, the D-link seems better for range. It also comes with more features on the stock fireware. However there are many feature-packed 3rd party firmwares for the Linksys. I'm going to investigate this further and see what I can do.

Note : My house is older and made of brick and cement. Some of the walls may also contain metal. This causes problems for wireless signals. In my friends <big> 3 story house, the wrt54g signal is acceptable everywhere, including the basement (with router on second floor).

 

[IncredibleHutch]

This isn't something you really ask by brand

What you want to look for is the power ratings on the router and the wireless NICs for transmit power. The transmit power for the devices determines the range. More power more range. Keep in mind this saying "You're only as strong as your weakest man". If the router has a power rating of 13dB and your NIC has a power rating of 23dB your really only going to get the range of 13dB.

Make note there are x2 different power ratings. dBm and mW both being very different and you really need a convert table or the formula for conversion (the link has the formula)

Anyway here is the sitesite should help you get an idea of what you are looking for.

For reference:
13dBm = 50mW
18dBM = 65mW
23dBM = 200mW
30dBM = 1,000mW

So when you look for your wireless devices be sure to look for power ratings if a large range is a big concern.

 

[Ahil]

I have a Linksys Router and D-link router. I must say the D-LInk sucks. My D-Link router broke down about 3 times and I had to reset it. After the last reset I still don't have wireless and I don't why everything in the setup is normal. D-Link suck. I have not had any problems with the Linksys one to date and it has been running for 9 months. Defanetly get a Linksys one