Routers: Linksys NO! Netgear NO! SMC Barricade YES!!!!

[jesseche]

I just ordered this item from NECXDIRECT.

The price is $99.95 + $5.95 Ground shipping (I got 2nd. Day for $7.95)
(buy.com's price is $123.95 + $6.32 Ground shipping)

http://www.necxdirect.com/hai/prod_page.html?key=0000155078

The advantages of the SMC Barricade SMC7004BR is that the SMC Barricade SMC7004BR Router has a four port switch (like the Linksys, Netgear etc.) and also has integrated print server (unlike the Linksys and Netgear etc.) :P and a 9-pin serial modem port to connect to a backup 56K or ISDN modem. (again, unlike the Linksys and Netgear etc.) :P

A definite deal. :D

Jesse

[Edited by jesseche on 01-24-2001 at 02:49 AM]

[stupidzbu]

how well does it work with PPPoE?

--==--

[InspectorGadget]

I traded up from the Linksys Cable/DSL Router with 4-port switch (BEFSR41) to the SMC Barricade SMC7004WBR (this is the WIRELESS version).

The SMC is PHENOMENAL. Not just because of the built-in wireless access point, but because the router/switch is engineered better!

When I had the Linksys, I constantly had problems reconnecting to my DSL service which uses PPPoE. Whenever you powered down the Linksys. for some reason it didn't automatically reconnect to the DSL service. I had to login to the router and tell it to reinitiate the connection. POS.

The Barricade, in my opinion, has better firmware and features for the money. As "jesseche" mentioned, it has a built-in print server and backup serial port for a modem.

[MaStAYoDA1]

Just a warning on the SMC router, I think its a great router, but if you have a multi functional printer, it causes problems. My friend had like a Laserjet 3000 or something, it has fax, print, and scan all in one. It will absolutely not want to work with the router no how much I try. Besides that, its extremely secure and an excellent router.

[InspectorGadget]

MaStAYoDA1,

Excellent point! I am only running the print server using an HP (single function) Deskjet and haven't had any problems thus far. Works well.

But I have heard of problems with multi-function, combo units... I don't have any personal experience to comment tho.

[i6s1]

I just left my printer plugged into the back of the computer. It's not like I need the parallel port for anything. If you plug it into the router, it doesn't keep track of ink levels.

[InspectorGadget]

i6s1,

The print server is helpful so that you can print from another computer directly to the printer.

Agreed that you lose some printer control, but at least you don't have to leave the PC that the printer is connected to running constantly.

My two cents...

[irwin]

Hi I need a little help in choosing a router...

Netgear's RT311 and RT314- RT314 says it comes with a "built in switch"

First, is this "switch" necessary? Second, does that SMC model have it? Or do I have to purchase it separately?

I already have 2 Netgear ethernet cards installed.

I want to connect 2 computers to an adsl line (PPPOE) and to a HP 970cse. Which model should I get. I have NO brand loyalties. Can someone shed some light? :) Thanks in advance.

[Kenas]

Hey I have the Barricade router for some time now, so far no problems, except the fact that it was shipped with a small booklet with minimum instructions, which are very confusing. Anyone here now where I could get a little help. Like how to give permissions to users who are not in my network neighborhod, how to use switch and stuff like that. Thanks.

[MaStAYoDA1]

Passwird -

If you don't have a switch, then you'd have to use a hub to split the connections.... it just depends on how many computers you have hooked in to the network, its just cheaper if you use the SMC, although you can hook up a hub/switch to that too. Its basically more convenient.

If you want to use the printer and adsl line all in one, SMC will do it for you, as the rest of the routers do not have printer ports on them. Of course it depends on how much you use your printer. I have an 8 port switch and do my own network... its less hassle for me (although not as secure)...

Okay, I'm done ranting now...

[irwin]

MaStAYoDA1, so all I have to do is buy the SMC one and everything will be all set? I only have 2 ethernet cards and no other equipment. What's this "switch" thing that everyone is talking about?! :)

[eolivr]

Passwird, go here for a little info on what a switch is:
http://www.gamecenter.com/Hardware/Doit/Homelan/ss01.html?tag=st.co.1037-7-2109201.txt.gc_homelan1

Also, I have the SMC7004BR and it is very nice (built in switch too).
Product info here
http://www.smc.com/smc/pages_html/homef.html

Hope that helps

And don't forget it also has a built in firewall, which is a very nice feature


[Edited by eolivr on 01-26-2001 at 09:12 AM]

[dev_null]

Passwird

If you want to connect a bunch of machines together, you need a switch or a hub. The difference between the two is that switches are normally faster. They tend to detect the fastest available speed and "switch" to it. Hence the name. If you have the choice and/or money make sure you get a switch. In reference to routers, they are even better because they take the hassle out of setting up an internet connection by doing everything for you. Normally, all you have to do is just plug all the connections and turn the power on. Most of the newer routers have built in switches (e.g. netgear, dlink, linksys...). A switch alone will allow a bunch of computers to see each other. A router/switch will allow a bunch of computers to see each other and the internet.

Hope this helps you.

Dev Null

PS. If you have any more questions and need a quick answer email me and i will be glad to answer them.
[email protected]
(and if anyone wants to whine about hotmail, i normally use it for sites that spam)

[Alaric]

Originally posted by dev_null
Passwird

If you want to connect a bunch of machines together, you need a switch or a hub. The difference between the two is that switches are normally faster. They tend to detect the fastest available speed and "switch" to it. Hence the name. If you have the choice and/or money make sure you get a switch. In reference to routers, they are even better because they take the hassle out of setting up an internet connection by doing everything for you. Normally, all you have to do is just plug all the connections and turn the power on. Most of the newer routers have built in switches (e.g. netgear, dlink, linksys...). A switch alone will allow a bunch of computers to see each other. A router/switch will allow a bunch of computers to see each other and the internet.
Dev Null

Dev,
Your explanation of a switch is not exactly correct. Basically, a switch manages virtual circuits, and moves data according to the MAC address of the destination. In this way, it can send the packets only to the port that holds the intended recipient, rather than to every port.
(A hub does not make forwarding decisions based on MAC addresses, they are basically 'dumb' devices, and therefore every packet moves across every port.) A switch is not called a switch because it "switches to the fastest speed." Switches also create more collision domains, which will increase network speed. Hubs extend the collision domain and the chance of collisions and the corresponding jam signals and back-off algorithms will greatly reduce the flow of usable traffic.

A router works much in the same way a switch does, but bases its forwarding decisions on the logical address (IP address) of the intended recipient. Routers are inherently slower than switches, but are useful in connecting LANs (or a single LAN) to a WAN. Basically, the best thing to do is "switch where you can, route where you must." However, there are newer products that are router/switches. They combine the best features of both devices.


[Edited by Alaric on 01-29-2001 at 05:30 AM]

[Diegosilang]

Hello, I just have a question on the SMC's 4port that connects to a 10/100 card. Can I connect a 10base T card to one of the 4 ports that is designated for the 10/100 card? I need your help before I purchase this router. Thanks.

[i6s1]

Yeah, 10/100 means that it will work with either 10mbps or 100mbps cards. So no problem.

[randyl]

Just my 2 cents on SMC vs Linksys.

I've used both and would take the Linksys over the SMC in almost all cases. Yes the SMC has a printer port and serial port, but you loose functionality with most modern printers. If you have to have that then get the SMC, but you can share printers that are attached to a PC on the LAN anyway. With hibernating and wake-on-LAN, I don't see printer sharing as a big deal at all.

If you have to have a dial up backup for your broadband that's another plus for the SMC, however, with a standard phone line is there enough to share anyway? And you can get cheap internal modems in 3-4 PCs for less than an external one to use with the SMC.

The Linksys has meaningful front-pannel indicater lights which are easily visible; it even has a traffic light for each port. The SMC has fewer lights and they are on the top where they are harder to see. The Linksys has all the ports and power connection on the back so wires aren't strung out all over the place. The SMC has the power line on one side, the PC ports on another and the Cable/DSL modem port on still another. Its like having an octopus on your desk, if you choose to put it there where it is convenient.

Although probably none of us have used enough of either to have statistically meaningful experiences, I've had serious problems with one of the two SMCs and none of the four Linksys. And the support on the SMC was terrible. Even at 2 AM on a Tuesday, it took 35 minutes to get through to tech support. The tech told me to try shorting two pins on the serial port together. After I did that, he added: oh, I forgot to tell you to power it off first. It was fried; although no real harm because it was already flakey.

[brainsmile]

I am a bit confused and hope that some of the regulars can help me out on this one. I have a notebook that I'd like to get wireless internet access from. My school has a computer lab that has T1 speeds and lots of loose (active) cat5 cables that you can normally sit down and plug into your NIC. I think that with the right kind of equipment it would be possible to just stick in the LAN and have it transmit. Am I right?

Secondly it seems that most of this type of technology requires that you put in some sort of PCI card into a desktop to get transmission. I'm not sure if they'll let me do that but if you can offer some solution or brands that don't need this to function I'd be most appreciative.

Bottom line... if you can suggest those which only need a pcmcia slot/card and something that hooks up directly to the LAN line, give me a holler... THANKS IN ADVANCE!!!

If you have suggestions as to where it is cheapest as well let me know.

[Okimoto]

Do any of these routers support ATM over ELAN?
Basically a RFC1483 connection?
Or winfire without the toolbar?

[VNamee]

Brainsmile, that will not necesarilly work. I work with the servers at my school, UCSD, and as with most everything else, that stuff all runs through servers (duh). If you want to connect to the outside world, you have to first be recognized by the server as a valid user. I know that when you get your computers hooked up at the dorms, you have to register witht resnet first, for example. Same idea. What I do know works, is if you copy down (that's if you can) settings on an existing computer and use that, but you have to unplug the old one. If its running DHCP which I kind of doubt, cuz that stuff is hard to regulate with high traffic, it might work. Or you can hack the servers, another viable alternative....

[brainsmile]

well I'm a graduate student in one of the departments and we all have to log in to get hooked up to the internet or the network for our department. So I think accessing is not an issue? I'm not sure. But I think there must be a way.

[brainsmile]

we each have a specific account an password. Hmmm... it's not quite like the undergrads I think. I'm not sure. But our computers... I don't think we have to register with resnet. I would just like to be able to work from my office and the computer lab that is specifically for the graduate department is less than 100 feet away with no obstructions in between. I was told by our computer guy that it is possible to do this but I was wondering what I needed to get in order to have this occur.

[brainsmile]

I usually just hook up the NIC to the cat5 cable lying around... boot up windows and then type in my user name and password at the startup and I can access the internet no problem. I don't see why I can just add the wireless option and still do the same thing. I think I'm just extending my range without any other issues. COMMENTS?

Thanks in advance

[Joshua]

Somebody kill this thread please!! It's torcher! It's not even about the deal anymore!

PLEEEEEEEZE!!!

For the love of God, just let it die... :) :):):)

[brainsmile]

torture would be the better way to spell it... unless your an arsonist.

[Joshua]

You SEE!?!?! this thread has torchered :) me so much that my spelling is now corrupt.

[vwtrek]

Sorry Snotrocket, just a few more words on switches.

Adding to what Alaric said but in simpler terms, a switch also could be used to link several lans together. Each port could be attached to one workstation or another lan. It then could switch your packets between the lans, as needed. But the biggest difference is that with a switch, packet broadcast is minimized which translates into faster and more efficient handling of data.

dev_null: hubs could autosense if your nic is 10 or 100 and adjust accordingly. Any of the hubs made by Linksys, D-Link, Netgear all do that.

I like the Linksys and SMC too but I prefer the Netgear RT314. No print server or backup serial port but it is a truly well crafted, more professional looking and solid piece of equipment. If I'm not mistaken, Nortel is behind Netgear. Besides, its down to $99 with the $30 mail in rebate from Buy.com.

[vwtrek]

Brainsmile, I was going to reply to your email address but it appears that you requested no email contact. =)

Anyway, 3com makes a wireless lan pc card for your notebook that works with the wireless gateway. They also make a wireless unit that acts as a bridge between your wired backbone to your wireless clients. I wonder if that would work in your lab setting. In a lab setting, there should be a DHCP server. Its just easier to manage with so many notebook users. It'll be a nightmarish fulltime job assigning IP's to users coming in to the lab all day long...

[kissdisap]

Know what's ridiculous? I get discounts there, but even after the discounts, a lot of the prices are more expensive than what I would find on these sites! If only I could apply coupons towards my purchases there... :)

[attgig]

if you only have 2 computers, and u keep them on...forget about the whole switch/hub thing.... it's expensive.

Just get a 10 dollar cable (crossover cable), and plug the 2 ethernet cards together.

But, if you have more than 2 computers, welll.....

[VNamee]

Brainsmile, that is different though. I didn't know you went to UCSD too...heh. Anyway, your machine is probably already configured to access the net, so it doesn't matter where you plug it in. Plus, since you have an account with your department, its probably they who regulate that stuff. Its probably running DHCP so its all automatic, BUT they trace you with a login/pw. But for most other people, like undergrads, there is no login/pw. So they have to trace you by ip. But yeah, if everything is configured right on your machine, you should be able to do anything with the connections at school as you would at home, including all the lan/router/switch stuff. Of course, you'd have to configure the router, etc to mimic your computer in terms of configuration and password, etc.

[brainsmile]

just one more question:

Do I have to get a specific wireless gateway then? Much appreciated.

[attgig]

it's 92.95 at outpost (after rebate)
http://shop3.outpost.com/product/61183/

[vwtrek]

Hi Brainsmile.

As long as all your wireless hardware conforms to the 802.11b, they should all interact just fine. You won't have to use just one company's products. I believe the 3com I mentioned conforms to the 802.11b specs. With transfers maxing out at 11mbps.

[brainsmile]

I think I'm going to go with the proxim symphony ... any comments?

[Apex]

Really (really) intensely slow and runs on proprietary system. Go for an 802.11b compliant system instead.

[brainsmile]

sounds good to me!

[shaggymatt]

PCMall had the Barricade same model as mentioned on yesterday's deal page for $94, but it was out of stock. So if you aren't in a rush, you can get it for $100 shipped and then take the $20 rebate off that. Few more bucks saved...

[brainsmile]

it'd be nice if you could provide one! Thanks

[Speedfreak]

I had though about getting one of those combo router/4-port, but I thought it would be nice to have the switch/hub separate from the router. I only have 2 computers and if I were to take the switch somewhere it would most likely go with one of my systems, so The other one would still be able to use the router.

I got an 8-port Netgear Switch and a Netgear Router. Some of my many free things from Amazon thanks to the many deals over time to get gift certificates. :naughty:

I got an 8-port because I sometimes take it to a LAN or have a LAN @ my house. It was also free. :D


Anyway. This deal is pretty good. Go for it if that is your fancy.

[Apex]

I'm on the SMC SMC7004WBR. It's a 3 port switch, router, print server + wireless access point. Supports PPPoE and has a com port for an external modem (basically a backup, in case your wideband provider goes down). Also, AND THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT, it comes with one of the newer 2nd generation antenna's which handle the encryption. Most units drop about 50% of their bandwidth with encryption enabled. This one drops less than 5% of your throughput. Definitely something to look for. Best one for the money.

Was $289 shipped overnight from outpost.com a few days ago, but it's $299.95 now, again shipped overnight. For about $50 less, you can get something that has no 3 port switch nor print server. Personally, I think those two things are worth it though. BTW, flooz works at outpost.

OUTPOST (http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=9eASk0x48lo&offerid=2161.1&type=10&subid=)

Just do a search for: 61468

[brainsmile]

So with the SMC you need to also have a pci card in a desktop or can you just run it hooked up directly to a live LAN line and a PCMCIA in your notebook?

Thanks in advance everyone!

[Apex]

With the SMC7004WBR, you can have a standard wired NIC in your desktop hooked with standard CAT5 cabling into one of the three 10/100 RJ45 ports on the SMC. Or, you can use a wireless pci nic. Up to you. I'd suggest wiring it. I currently have 2 desktop computers and a Xerox NC60 networked color laser printer hooked up through 10/100 ports, an HP OfficeJet R80xi hooked up through the printer port, and three notebooks hooked up through wireless cards (currently on Cisco Aironet wireless cards actually because I like the way they're designed, and was lucky enough to buy em for $45 each).

[brainsmile]

Where did you get the cards for such a good price?

[blueribb]

Sorry to revive this thread but I'm a newbie to this subject and need direction.

My wife and I each have our own computers in separate rooms. We just got residential DSL using an external Speedstream 5250 modem. We'd like to share internet access ONLY without networking the two computers.

We have a basement to do hard wiring from room to room so that's no trouble.

Exactly what piece of equipment should we choose to share the bandwidth ?

Thanks in advance,
TV Doc

[hapoo]

Originally posted by Apex
With the SMC7004WBR, you can have a standard wired NIC in your desktop hooked with standard CAT5 cabling into one of the three 10/100 RJ45 ports on the SMC. Or, you can use a wireless pci nic. Up to you. I'd suggest wiring it. I currently have 2 desktop computers and a Xerox NC60 networked color laser printer hooked up through 10/100 ports, an HP OfficeJet R80xi hooked up through the printer port, and three notebooks hooked up through wireless cards (currently on Cisco Aironet wireless cards actually because I like the way they're designed, and was lucky enough to buy em for $45 each).



DAMN 2 Desktops, 2 Laser printers, 3 notebooks and only 2 people?!?!?!?! I love a house where the computers outnumber the people :)
Actually i dont think i could have more than 2 computers, its hard breakin' them in.

[brainsmile]

It is a DCHP server


Originally posted by vwtrek
Brainsmile, I was going to reply to your email address but it appears that you requested no email contact. =)

Anyway, 3com makes a wireless lan pc card for your notebook that works with the wireless gateway. They also make a wireless unit that acts as a bridge between your wired backbone to your wireless clients. I wonder if that would work in your lab setting. In a lab setting, there should be a DHCP server. Its just easier to manage with so many notebook users. It'll be a nightmarish fulltime job assigning IP's to users coming in to the lab all day long...

[brainsmile]

do I need line of sight to use the SMC2652W effectively?