Networking is unfortunately one of those things that give me an instant headache. However, I'm thinking of upgrading my existing 802.11g network and going with an n router. Here is my current setup:
I live in an old house with very solid walls. We have a computer on the first level which is wired to an older Linksys b/g router. From there, we have CAT5 running upstairs to our second floor media room. It connects to an ethernet switch, to which is wired a Roku movie streaming box, a Squeezebox, and my DirecTV DVR. I also have connected a Linksys access point, in order to extend my wireless range in the house. This is working well, and we can use laptops in every room, including the third floor above.
We have two new laptops, both with wireless n adapters, and also are adding a second Roku box in a third floor bedroom which would be wireless. So the question is what router/access point to replace my existing Linksys gear. I see that the new thing is dual band, but I also understand that the range of the 5 Ghz band is not great through walls, etc. So I'm wondering if I need that. I also want something with a USB port, as I'm thinking of adding NAS as a music server in the future. So far, the Netgear 3700 looks like a good choice, but I'm sure there are others to consider. But I doubt I can get a good signal up in our third floor. So, can I pair it with an access point as I'm doing now? If so, which one? I'm very open to suggestions, and it is quite possible that I'm approaching my setup completely wrong. If so, fire away!
Thanks!
Kristina
I live in an old house with very solid walls. We have a computer on the first level which is wired to an older Linksys b/g router. From there, we have CAT5 running upstairs to our second floor media room. It connects to an ethernet switch, to which is wired a Roku movie streaming box, a Squeezebox, and my DirecTV DVR. I also have connected a Linksys access point, in order to extend my wireless range in the house. This is working well, and we can use laptops in every room, including the third floor above.
We have two new laptops, both with wireless n adapters, and also are adding a second Roku box in a third floor bedroom which would be wireless. So the question is what router/access point to replace my existing Linksys gear. I see that the new thing is dual band, but I also understand that the range of the 5 Ghz band is not great through walls, etc. So I'm wondering if I need that. I also want something with a USB port, as I'm thinking of adding NAS as a music server in the future. So far, the Netgear 3700 looks like a good choice, but I'm sure there are others to consider. But I doubt I can get a good signal up in our third floor. So, can I pair it with an access point as I'm doing now? If so, which one? I'm very open to suggestions, and it is quite possible that I'm approaching my setup completely wrong. If so, fire away!
Thanks!
Kristina