3. Wireless Routers

If you don't already have a router to share your cable modem, DSL, or satellite-broadband among all the computers of your network, you'll probably want to pick up a wireless router (they're sometimes called gateways, too). Popular models include Linksys' BEFW11S4 ($98) and Netgear's FM114P ($119), although you may be able to find products discounted closer to $50-$60 for your shopping pleasure! Factors that may help your decision are that Linksys is running a $10 rebate for their product and the Netgear includes a built-in parallel-port print server. Both products include a 4 port 10/100 switch for connecting up to four wired computers in addition to up to 32 wireless clients.

NETGEAR's FM114P

Since the biggest complaint about wireless networks is that they don't reach as far as manufacturers would have you believe, you might want to check out D-Link's AirPlus Wireless line. Many of the products in D-Link's line have removable antennas, which makes it easy to trade-up to one of the higher gain (i.e. longer range) antennas that D-Link also sells. Although other manufacturers offer products (such as Linksys' BEFW11S4) with removable antennas , few make it as easy as D-Link to choose, buy, and connect a more powerful antenna.

You can choose between D-Link's DI-714+ or DI-614+, depending on whether you want your router with or without a built-in parallel-port print server respectively. Note that although both routers feature a non-standard 22Mbps "Enhanced 802.11b" mode, the products will work fine with normal 802.11b equipment.

D-Link DI-764

Fans of 802.11a technology will find slim pickin's for 802.11a routers, namely NETGEAR's HR314 ($329). If you really want 802.11a routing in a single package, you'll be better off going with a dual-band router such as D-Link's DI-764 or Linksys' WRT51AB, which you'll find for not much more than dual-band access points, around $225.