router recommendation

[max105]

I recently purchased a Linksys router, but without clearly looking at the specs...I accidentally ordered a 1 port router instead of the 4 port router. I am thinking about selling this and getting the 4 port router like I originally wanted. But I was wondering if there were any advantages as to buying a separate switch and hooking it up to the 1 port router.

Also, I've mainly been looking at the Linksys 4-port router, but are there any other good ones that people can recommend within the same price range as the Linksys (~$70)? Thanks.

 

[CaseyAZ]

There are no advantages or disadvantages performance wise to adding a separate switch. The only disadvantage is price and space. It's going to cost you more to buy another switch ~$24 for a offbrand 4 port and it's going to take up more space. Advantages would be you can get a switch with more ports. Can't you return the product you got and get the one you want? Zyxel/Netgear (Zyxel makes Netgears), SMC, D-Link all have products in that price range. Practically Networked is a good site to do research, they have reviews for a lot of routers

 

[max105]

I bought the router from a local forum board. I could call back the guy I bought it from and return it to him, but he lives pretty far from me. He was in town at the time and dropped it off at my place. I figure it might be too much trouble to return it to him and it was my fault to begin with. I'll probably just sell it on ebay or something, get my money back and buy a multiport router. Thanks for the reply.

 

[dnoyeb]

Requiring 2 wall outlets is another disadvantage. Other than that I wouldnt worry about it. I wouldnt send it back and waste that mail money. Just order a switch or hub. Besides, this will allow you to put distance between the router location and the computers if thats every necessary. Like my router is in my basement.

 

[CubicZirconia]

As far as reccomendations go, Linksys is as good as the next router. Stick with them.

 

[SaigonK]

I have the 4 port Linksys.. it works just fine. You can run a switch off your single port and it will be just fine as well.
Just more plugs and lan cables to worry about.

 

[TheWart]

Hate to throw a wrench into your decision, but I recently purchased a 4port SMC Barricade Router. The main reason I bought it is that it looks cool and it has a print server. While I am no networking guru (i.e. I have not tried to setup a private ftp or anything with DMZ ports..) I have been able to setup it in Linux and windows. Plus, it is a switch, not a hub (the linksys is prolly like this as well tho)

Anyway, that was my $.02 for you.