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Need a dual band N router for use as access point

donfm

donfm

Senior member
There are so many routers out there and I've read so many reviews and I'm more confused than ever. I need an N band wireless router for my larger ranch style home. I'm interested in one with pretty good range but it doesn't need to be 450MPS in speed. I was looking at the D Link 655 and the Linksys E4200 but not sure if I need that much router as the linksys. My needs are rather simple. Streaming video on occasion and just general use around the house. I can get an E4200 refurb for about $100 and the DLink 655 much cheaper than that. I would like gigabit capability but other than the I'm not too picky. Any suggestions for a good router to use as an access point that will be versatile and not obsolete in 6 months?
 
The E4200 refurb. with the stock firmware.

I.e., if you only want to use it as an AP do not flash with DD-WRT.

When it come to Simultaneous transfer the Wireless client matter.

I get the best result with Atheros AGN chipset.



😎
 
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I had the Netgear WNDR3700 for just over a year before it crapped out (unable to get an IP address). I was hoping to use it as a WAP but still didn't work on auto settings. Still hoping I can do so setting everything manually.

I also have a Trendnet Dual N that I am now using as my main router (due to the issues above). I am using with DD-WRT installed and it works just fine. I got it for the bargain price of $40. Makes the $140 I spent a year ago on the Netgear a waste of money. As an access point, it worked fine. The wireless signal on the Netgear was slightly stronger (20%) but as an AP the Trendnet was a perfect choice. For now, it will continue to be my main router as I have another "backup" router serving as an AP. I need a constant, wired, constant connection as I am currently working from home.

Don't listen to the naysayers, the Trendnet is a decent product, especially with DD-WRT installed.
 
e4200 and wndr3700 are essentially the same. they suck. stick to 2.4ghz and rock 300 or 450 with about 840mw 🙂 aka buffalo airstation.

Ride that out until the new macbook's with wi-gig (next gen wifi whatever the name du jour will be) come out later this year.

the buffalo with the buffalo firmware (as an AP) holds a 300mbit link all day long here. none of that dropping down to 150 after an hour and sticking there.

plus it can rock out to a paid for copy of dd-wrt if you need it to.free
 
Thanks all for your suggestions. I'm going to see if I can pick up a used router off Ebay. I'll look for the ones you suggested.....
 
I was considering purchasing a refurb E4200 V1 for about $100 from Cisco.

Does anyone have any input on the reliability of such refurbs once repaired? I guess I'm a little hesitant because I've read that Cisco support of the refurbs it sells is horrible if you have problems with it and only a 3 month warranty. Then if it's DOA they make you pay shipping to return it. Any comments on purchasing refurbished routers?
 
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