Which Homer Network Router/Gateway?

[tekweeny]

Which one is the best bang for the buck (even thought they all are similar in price)?

1) 3Com Home Ethernet Gateway
2) Linksys 4-Port Cable/DSL Router
3) SMC Barricade

 

[JackMDS]

It depends on what you want to do with your Internet sharing.

There are some subtle differences between these products.

The SMC Barricade is the Cheapest of the three.

However, look here and compare.

http://www.practicallynetworked.com/pg/hw_router_bkgrounder.htm

 

[Scarpozzi]

3Com is going to be the most expensive, but many people will claim the quality is higher...or they used to. I suggest the LinkSys because they made a decent interface and it's not difficult to setup. I don't particularly endorse any SMC products though because I've seen too many of their network cards die in the past. They tend to be lower in quality and they often don't design their systems...they just slap a sticker on the chips. I've personally got a DLink 701, but you'd probably be happier with the LinkSys model...Plus, it comes with a 4 port switch so it'll be easy to configure and even segment your network if you wish.

 

[Riesz]

I just setup the Linksys 4 port router... sharing my cable connection on 2 PC's... works great, easy to configure.. only $99 after rebate...

 

[Vincent]

I believe the SMC router has some features the others don't (print server, telephone modem connection).