Learn me Home wireless networks

So I think my home wireless network is need of an upgrade. We're currently using an Ativa 802.11g. It works fine for the three computers we have on the network, but the Xbox has become a bit of an issue.

We recently decided to try that new fangled Netflix thing. Seems a lot easier. My Xbox warned me that a G router wasn't good enough to stream movies without interruption.

So my question is this, is an N+ router worth the $100 premium most seem to carry? Or will an N router serve me just as well.

G = 54mb (Max) you will usually run 33mb avg with more than one unit on it. B/G/N will negotiate speed to match the slowest connected client

what's your internet speed? 1.5mb? 3mb 6mb?

I stream netflix perfectly on the stock ATT 54g router and a 3mb line.

I got a $40 N router and it's been fine for Netlix over Wii.

An N-router should easily do the job; if your computers and the Xbox support it, I'd go find a dual-band one that does both 2.4GHz and 5GHz as there is a lot less contention on the 5GHz band.

I was looking at the Linksys E2000.

http://tinyurl.com/2apsa9a

@ Grtechguy, uh I'm actually not sure. How would I go about finding what my internet speed is?

Drewsifer wrote: I was looking at the Linksys E2000. http://tinyurl.com/2apsa9a @ Grtechguy, uh I'm actually not sure. How would I go about finding what my internet speed is?

According to a review here, this might not be your best choice - looks like at least one of the reviewers had problems getting it to work with an XBox.

I've never had a problem with G. We have 8 mbit down, 1 mbit up, and there is never any slow down at all.

I can't imagine needing anything other than a G router.

Maybe your reception is poor? The little 'reception meter' on your computer isn't really that accurate. If you get a access point stumbler program for your computer it will give you reception as a percentage. Maybe play around with your router location to see if you can pick up some reception in the common use areas.

High is good, and microwave ovens will completely screw your reception. My friend in college kept his wifi router on top of his microwave oven, and everyone would know that 2 minutes after their internet stopped working, they could go get free popcorn in room 905.

I use a Linksys N wireless bridge and a switch to get all my livingroom gear online. 4 devices, one wireless connection.

I stream netflix through my bluray player without any trouble. Also have a Wii, Xbox, and computer all hard wired. The less wireless connections, the better in my book.

This one: http://www.amazon.com/Cisco-Linksys-Dual-Band-Wireless-N-Gaming-Adapter/dp/B0010TEOLQ

Drewsifer wrote: I was looking at the Linksys E2000. http://tinyurl.com/2apsa9a @ Grtechguy, uh I'm actually not sure. How would I go about finding what my internet speed is?

speedtest.net will give a fairly decent idea

Unless you're spending a good deal of money per month, you're not going to exceed the speed of your internet connection. For what it's worth, I used Netflix on a 360 over a wireless link between 2 routers. No issues as long as my signal was good. I was shooting from my main router on one side of my house out to an addition on the other side of the house. I was passing through 3 concrete block walls and at least 2 interior walls. I had to have both routers wall mounted near the ceiling with the antennas pointed straight up. Streamed just fine, though.

$25.00/mo... I guess I shouldn't complain.

mine is 10/.5 in my bedroom (I thought we were 8/1?)

and it is 12/0.5 in my kitchen (router under my feet)

John Brown wrote: $25.00/mo... I guess I shouldn't complain.

sweet deal, what service provider and plan do you have?

I stream Netflix to my PS3 over a G router and I have not had any issues. One of my projects is to finish the hard line to the drop behind my TV and get the Wii/PS3?Xbox wired though.

[URL=http://www.speedtest.net][/URL]

Not bad. And apparently Xbox is a big fat liar. I watched Love Guru last night, without a single hiccup. So nothing shall change.

'N' is so cheap there's no reason to buy 'G' if you're buying new gear.