What is the final N, i have no idea what it is
by silentassassin93 - 7/24/08 11:59 AM
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Latest questions and answers
A: Procastination.
by ngodong - 7/24/08 12:05 PMRight now the Wireless-N is not yet finalized and it's called Draft N 2.0 . Hopefully it will be finalized (ratified) soon and you won't have to wonder anymore. 
Q: WEP/WPA
by JS82712 - 7/24/08 11:54 AMCurrently, on all draft N2.0 routers, if you set WEP security key, the speed is capped to 54mbps, but when the final N is released, will that change?
A: Probably not.
by ngodong - 7/24/08 12:03 PMProbably not, this is because WPA is much more secure and better for speed than WEP. I know this is a backward compatibility issue but by the time the N is finalized, most legacy cards will have driver/software updates to support WPA.
A: Thanks!
by ngodong - 7/24/08 12:00 PMThat's all the time I got today. Thanks guys and remember to encrypt your wireless networks!
Q: WEP/WPA
by JS82712 - 7/24/08 11:54 AMCurrently, on all draft N2.0 routers, if you set WEP security key, the speed is capped to 54mbps, but when the final N is released, will that change?
A: Probably not.
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:58 AMProbably not, this is because WPA is much more secure and better for speed than WEP. I know this is a backward compatibility issue but by the the N is finalized, most legacy card will have driver/software updates to support WPA.
A: hard to say
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:56 AMVery hard to say 'cause we don't test them over a long period of time. However, most new Wireless-N router are relative stable don't reset as often as Wireless-G ones.
Q: Wi-Max
by DipsetBeast72 - 7/24/08 11:51 AMAre things going to start making the jump to N or Wi-max, I don't want to end up like a HD-DVD buyer
A: Two different things
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:55 AMThey are not exactly the same. Wireless-N is more for a closed wireless network and Wi-Max is mostly for a large cellular data connection. So just jump to N, I'd say.
Q: digital camera
by y4276m - 7/24/08 11:50 AMi have a vq680 camera but i now have a brand new emachine ive had the camera for 8 yrs i need a free program to download my photos from my cam microsoft pichure it wont work anymore or photo suite3 but the work when i scan a picture can anyone help THANKS
A: Sorry
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:53 AMYou will need to ask Lori Grunin about this. However, an 8 year old digital camera is pretty old and you might want to get a new one. They are pretty cheap these days. Possibly cheaper than you think.
Q: Purchase Now or later
by JS82712 - 7/24/08 11:50 AMShould I purchase a Wireless N adapter since i have a Dlink N router or should I wait until the final N is released?
A: Now
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:51 AMI don't see why you should wait, really. The final don't make it any faster or slower, just compliant.
Q: Not Using the ISP's Router
by james007bond - 7/24/08 11:48 AMIf you use your own router instead of an ISP providers, does that effect the speed or use of your connection?
A: Probably no
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:50 AMIf the modem works with the ISP, chances are no. Modems are simple devices and they are very similar to one another. However, this, of course, depends on the IPS and the particular modem.
Q: Internet Speed
by yeetso - 7/24/08 11:46 AMFios vs. RoadRunner. Both is 10MB/2MB. Which One faster??
A: The same?
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:49 AMI live in West coast and don't' have any experience with either. But from what you said, they should be the same, no?
Q: Routers
by silentassassin93 - 7/24/08 11:45 AMthis might sound stupid but can u guys do a prizefight between Linksys Wireless-N Gigabit Router (WRT310N) vs. Netgear RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router (WNDR3300) vs D-Link Xtreme N Gigabit Router (DIR655)?
A: I'll see about that.
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:47 AMI'll ask Brian Tong about this. And by this I mean the PrizeFight (not whether or not your request is stupid )
Q: Draft N upgrade
by JS82712 - 7/24/08 11:44 AMI currently own a dlink Xtreme N router(DIR 655) when the final N is released, will I be able to upgrade to the final N through firmware update?
A: Yes
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:46 AMYes and that what all vendors say. We have to wait till the Draft N 2.0 is ratified to see how true this is. But I believe you will be able to.
Q: verizon dsl router
by slayyer - 7/24/08 11:40 AMCan you use any quality router with a verizon branded dsl modem or is it better to just stay with a verizon combo modem/router in one. I was wanting to use my own router for better results.
A: Get just the modem
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:43 AMIf you can, get just the modem from them and find yourself a separate router. This way, it's more flexible and if one of the functions breaks, you only need to replace that particular function's device.
Most DSL modems work the same in regard the speed and quality. They are a simple products and I think the ISP would give one to you for free.
Q: ROuter
by silentassassin93 - 7/24/08 11:36 AMcan u please put up a rating forNETGEAR RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 - wireless router and i want to ask what brand makes the best routers?
A: Sure
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:40 AMI'll review it once I got my hands on it. Keep checking back at CNET.com or Crave.cnet.com for updates on this.
I can't say what brand makes the best router. They all have their great and not so great products.
Q: Home Router
by yeetso - 7/24/08 11:33 AMI had a few wire/wireless G routers at Home (3 LinkSys WRT-54G (old), and Buffalo WHR-HP-G54(Used now)). The LinkSys Routers was not stable after i used 6 months to a year. If unstable happen, I usually need unplug power and replug power to reset my routers. The Computer I Connection was 2 in Days time and 6 in Night time. The Router is On 24/7. Everyday i need reset my router at least 2 times in LinkSys Router, the Buffalo Router is more stable than LinkSys (I
Question:
1. Why did every of my Router Unstable after 6 months, Did all Router need change after a year?
2. Is there anything I can change software or hardware to Fix this Problem?
thanks!
A: I feel you.
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:39 AMThat's happened to a lot of people so for sure it's not you.
1. This is because, like all things, routers are susceptible to wear and tear. Also, if you put it in a tight corner, the heat might affect its performance.
2. Put it in a well-ventilated place, try upgrading the firmware.
Q: wireless print server for a current wirless network?
by dornbosj - 7/24/08 11:24 AMAre you aware of a product that exists that would allow me to connect 3 or more printers to a print server but instead of having to hook the print server into an Ethernet port, would be able to access my current wireless network?
I don't think that this product exists today on the market but I thought I would give it a shot.
I'd like to put my three printers in an area where there is Ethernet ports. Any other ways of accomplishing this without tearing into my drywall?
Thanks for any help you can give me.
A: No
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:35 AMNo, I haven't heard of such printserver, you can get a hub and get 3 printsers for those printer. Or you can just get a hub and 3 printers that have built-in printserver. You can even find pritner that have built-in wireless printserver too.
A: Yes and no
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:32 AMYes as in it works. No as in it's very limited in functionality and speed. Gennerally, you want just the modem from the ISP and get your own router.
Q: (NT) I sold a cow to buy this Linksys router. How do I connect to your heart?
by SGchic - 7/24/08 11:27 AMQ: Draft N
by gankt2000 - 7/24/08 11:26 AMJust a qucik question as to whether or not the "new" N wireless protocol is that much faster than the current G?
Q: Budget home network router
by soccerman44 - 7/24/08 11:26 AMHi i'm currently on an old d-link router thats kind of choppy at times. I was wondering what the best budget router for the home is. I also play games online from time to time, so some speed would be nice too.
A: There are a few
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:29 AMYou can find them here:
http://reviews.cnet.com/networking-wifi-hardware/?tag=dffl2_1&filter=100021_10514618_
I am reviewing the TP-Link L-WR941ND (the review will be up later toay) and it's a good one too, only 60 bucks.
Q: Router antenna
by oniongrand - 7/24/08 11:23 AMIs there a speed difference between a double antennas router and a single antenna router?
A: It depends
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:25 AMIt depends on the router's processor and how its firmware is optimized. The common sense is double is better than single
Q: Re: NAS Drive
by duopodcast - 7/24/08 11:20 AMOk But I was wondering if there should be security software running on the drive...
Q: Router
by silentassassin93 - 7/24/08 11:16 AMHi, i want to buy a good router that works with all the things in my house. I have a large house, ps3, wii, psp, ds, desktop, and a laptop. i also have a two floor house where the router is going to be on the top floor and the laptop on the bottom floor, so need a router to give good to the laptop wirelessly? my laptop has wireless g in it. i want you to help me pick a router
A: Lots of choices
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:23 AMCheck out our network review section:
http://reviews.cnet.com/networking-wifi/?tag=cnetfd.dir
Most of wireless-N routers would do in your situations. If your how is really large, range would be the most important thing. That said, I'd recommend the D-Link DGL-4500.
http://reviews.cnet.com/routers/d-link-dgl-4500/4505-3319_7-32748872.html?tag=prod.txt.5
Q: NAS Drive
by duopodcast - 7/24/08 11:16 AMWhat is the best way to secure a NAS drive (Buffalo LinkStation Live) - 500GB Version
Thanks
A: Strong password
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:19 AMThe same way you keep most of other devices, that require logging in, secure: keep the admin username and password for yourself. Also, make sure those who have access to it don't have admin privileges.
Q: Connection problem
by flstaley - 7/24/08 11:11 AMI have a linksys router and I am trying to connect with a desktop with a dlink wireless card. It connects on start up but will never get an ip and go out to the internet until I do a repair in win xp. Then it works fine. What could be wrong? It;s an inconvenience to do a repair each startup.
FS
A: Driver issue
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:16 AMIt might be a driver issue, try updating the driver of the card. Sometimes you just need to uninstall and reinstall it. Also, try removing the wireless network from the desktop and re-adding it. That might help too.
Q: Best Routers?
by enrid - 7/24/08 11:07 AMhich is the best router today and why is d-link 855 off the market? Is the Linksys wta610N a good router, and what wireless cards should be used with it to optimize speed in the wireless network?
A: Hard to say
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:18 AMIt's hard to say which one is the best. This all depends on what your needs are. You want to use cards from Linksys with a Linksys router, for your laptop it would be the Dual-Band Wireless-N Notebook adapter WPC600N. The DIR 855 is not off, it's on! We just reviewed it, check it out:
http://reviews.cnet.com/routers/d-link-xtreme-n/4505-3319_7-32820169.html?tag=prod.txt.1
Q: wireless b and g mix?
by iphone8 - 7/24/08 11:04 AMif i have a wireless g network with 4 pc's that all have wireless g and 1 pc that has wireless b would it improve my network speed if i hardwire the wireless b computer and then change my router settings from B/G mix to G only?
A: Yes
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:09 AMYes, that would help. However, you want to move all of them to Wireless-N if possible.
Q: network storage
by sadrid - 7/24/08 11:02 AMI have a home wireless network and I am interested in buying the Linksys Network Storage System with 2 Bays for my network. I chose this product because disk space an be divided and password protected among users and I could access the information on –line if I chose. Would you recommend this product as a good way to back up and access your info or is there something else you would prefer. Also know that I am not interested in setting up a server.
A: Lots of choices.
by ngodong - 7/24/08 11:07 AMWe've not yet tested the Linksys Network Storage System but most of them can do what you need. I think you should check out the Synology DS107+ (and DS1207+) or the HP media vault. You want to plug them directly into the router with a wired connection , though. Their links are below.
http://reviews.cnet.com/external-hard-drives/synology-disk-station-ds/4505-3190_7-32987447.html
http://reviews.cnet.com/external-hard-drives/hp-media-vault-mv2120/4505-3190_7-32909909.html
Incoming questions
final n
For y4276m in regards to digital camera
Hi there,
Unfortunately this live chat event is on networking. If you need immediate help with your computer/camera related issues--please give the CNET forums a whirl and see if any of our helpful member or moderators can give you a helping hand.
Click on this link below and select the most appropriate forum for your problem and create a new discussion there:
http://forums.cnet.com
However if you don't want to do that, you can check back on August 7 when CNET editor and digital camera guru, Lori Grunin will be hosting another Ask the editor live chat event and you can ask here then. Here the event calendar:
http://forums.cnet.com/4520-12548-6748916.html
Good luck!
Best regards,
-Lee Koo
CNET Community
Unfortunately this live chat event is on networking. If you need immediate help with your computer/camera related issues--please give the CNET forums a whirl and see if any of our helpful member or moderators can give you a helping hand.
Click on this link below and select the most appropriate forum for your problem and create a new discussion there:
http://forums.cnet.com
However if you don't want to do that, you can check back on August 7 when CNET editor and digital camera guru, Lori Grunin will be hosting another Ask the editor live chat event and you can ask here then. Here the event calendar:
http://forums.cnet.com/4520-12548-6748916.html
Good luck!
Best regards,
-Lee Koo
CNET Community
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 7/24/08 11:59 AM
rootkit
imgoing nuts over this can i save anythingor should i just format the whole drive and start over. will it attach to music, pictures, etc
by pokersphinx - 7/24/08 11:58 AM
WEP/WPA
Currently, on all draft N2.0 routers, if you set WEP security key, the speed is capped to 54mbps, but when the final N is released, will that change?
by JS82712 - 7/24/08 11:54 AM
Wi-Max
Are things going to start making the jump to N or Wi-max, I don't want to end up like a HD-DVD buyer
by DipsetBeast72 - 7/24/08 11:51 AM
digital camera
i have a vq680 camera but i now have a brand new emachine ive had the camera for 8 yrs i need a free program to download my photos from my cam microsoft pichure it wont work anymore or photo suite3 but the work when i scan a picture can anyone help THANKS
by y4276m - 7/24/08 11:50 AM
Purchase Now or later
Should I purchase a Wireless N adapter since i have a Dlink N router or should I wait until the final N is released?
by JS82712 - 7/24/08 11:50 AM
Not Using the ISP's Router
If you use your own router instead of an ISP providers, does that effect the speed or use of your connection?
by james007bond - 7/24/08 11:48 AM
Internet Speed
Fios vs. RoadRunner. Both is 10MB/2MB. Which One faster??
by yeetso - 7/24/08 11:46 AM
Routers
this might sound stupid but can u guys do a prizefight between Linksys Wireless-N Gigabit Router (WRT310N) vs. Netgear RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router (WNDR3300) vs D-Link Xtreme N Gigabit Router (DIR655)?
by silentassassin93 - 7/24/08 11:45 AM
Draft N upgrade
I currently own a dlink Xtreme N router(DIR 655) when the final N is released, will I be able to upgrade to the final N through firmware update?
by JS82712 - 7/24/08 11:44 AM
Wireless via Coax
I have used APs in a point-to-point configuration before to extend my network. I'm trying to set up the same here for my church but an having signal strength problems due to the steel buildings. I have plenty of old coax cable lying around and was wondering if it was possible to connect the antenna jacks of the two APs together via coax?
by HowardParr - 7/24/08 11:43 AM
verizon dsl router
Can you use any quality router with a verizon branded dsl modem or is it better to just stay with a verizon combo modem/router in one. I was wanting to use my own router for better results.
by slayyer - 7/24/08 11:40 AM
ROuter
can u please put up a rating forNETGEAR RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router WNDR3300 - wireless router and i want to ask what brand makes the best routers?
by silentassassin93 - 7/24/08 11:36 AM
Home Router
I had a few wire/wireless G routers at Home (3 LinkSys WRT-54G (old), and Buffalo WHR-HP-G54(Used now)). The LinkSys Routers was not stable after i used 6 months to a year. If unstable happen, I usually need unplug power and replug power to reset my routers. The Computer I Connection was 2 in Days time and 6 in Night time. The Router is On 24/7. Everyday i need reset my router at least 2 times in LinkSys Router, the Buffalo Router is more stable than LinkSys (I
Question:
1. Why did every of my Router Unstable after 6 months, Did all Router need change after a year?
2. Is there anything I can change software or hardware to Fix this Problem?
thanks!
Question:
1. Why did every of my Router Unstable after 6 months, Did all Router need change after a year?
2. Is there anything I can change software or hardware to Fix this Problem?
thanks!
by yeetso - 7/24/08 11:33 AM
(NT) Is the Linksys WRT54G a good router?
by oniongrand - 7/24/08 11:29 AM
(NT) I sold a cow to buy this Linksys router. How do I connect to your heart?
by SGchic - 7/24/08 11:27 AM
Draft N
Just a qucik question as to whether or not the "new" N wireless protocol is that much faster than the current G?
by gankt2000 - 7/24/08 11:26 AM
Budget home network router
Hi i'm currently on an old d-link router thats kind of choppy at times. I was wondering what the best budget router for the home is. I also play games online from time to time, so some speed would be nice too.
by soccerman44 - 7/24/08 11:26 AM
Re: Re: NAS Drive
OK Thanks.. that helps
by duopodcast - 7/24/08 11:25 AM
wireless print server for a current wirless network?
Are you aware of a product that exists that would allow me to connect 3 or more printers to a print server but instead of having to hook the print server into an Ethernet port, would be able to access my current wireless network?
I don't think that this product exists today on the market but I thought I would give it a shot.
I'd like to put my three printers in an area where there is Ethernet ports. Any other ways of accomplishing this without tearing into my drywall?
Thanks for any help you can give me.
I don't think that this product exists today on the market but I thought I would give it a shot.
I'd like to put my three printers in an area where there is Ethernet ports. Any other ways of accomplishing this without tearing into my drywall?
Thanks for any help you can give me.
by dornbosj - 7/24/08 11:24 AM
Router antenna
Is there a speed difference between a double antennas router and a single antenna router?
by oniongrand - 7/24/08 11:23 AM
Re: NAS Drive
Ok But I was wondering if there should be security software running on the drive...
by duopodcast - 7/24/08 11:20 AM
Router
Hi, i want to buy a good router that works with all the things in my house. I have a large house, ps3, wii, psp, ds, desktop, and a laptop. i also have a two floor house where the router is going to be on the top floor and the laptop on the bottom floor, so need a router to give good to the laptop wirelessly? my laptop has wireless g in it. i want you to help me pick a router
by silentassassin93 - 7/24/08 11:16 AM
NAS Drive
What is the best way to secure a NAS drive (Buffalo LinkStation Live) - 500GB Version
Thanks
Thanks
by duopodcast - 7/24/08 11:16 AM
Connection problem
I have a linksys router and I am trying to connect with a desktop with a dlink wireless card. It connects on start up but will never get an ip and go out to the internet until I do a repair in win xp. Then it works fine. What could be wrong? It;s an inconvenience to do a repair each startup.
FS
FS
by flstaley - 7/24/08 11:11 AM
Best Routers?
hich is the best router today and why is d-link 855 off the market? Is the Linksys wta610N a good router, and what wireless cards should be used with it to optimize speed in the wireless network?
by enrid - 7/24/08 11:07 AM
wireless b and g mix?
if i have a wireless g network with 4 pc's that all have wireless g and 1 pc that has wireless b would it improve my network speed if i hardwire the wireless b computer and then change my router settings from B/G mix to G only?
by iphone8 - 7/24/08 11:04 AM
backup
do you know how to hook up a seagate to a linksys wireless router to hook up to time machine?
by gopher767 - 7/24/08 11:03 AM
Hi question about the new Fios triple play service.
On the website, it said the fios triple play came with a free router and i have 3 laptops so i was wondering if i could configure it so that all 3 laptops connect to the internet wirelessly or do i have to have one of them as a desktop and stay hooked to one place?
by clrgj2 - 7/24/08 11:03 AM
network storage
I have a home wireless network and I am interested in buying the Linksys Network Storage System with 2 Bays for my network. I chose this product because disk space an be divided and password protected among users and I could access the information on –line if I chose. Would you recommend this product as a good way to back up and access your info or is there something else you would prefer. Also know that I am not interested in setting up a server.
by sadrid - 7/24/08 11:02 AM
Dong Ngo, CNET Associate Technology Editor live!
Ask the Editors live chat event: Computer networking
Do you have questions on home computer networking? Or how about questions on routers or network attached storage? If you do, you've come to the right place!
For one whole hour on Thursday, July 24, starting at 11 a.m. Pacific time (2 p.m. Eastern), CNET Associate Technology Editor for networking and network attached storage, Dong Ngo will be here to answer your questions and discuss anything to do with computer networking--from routers, NAS devices, to home networking.
Don't miss out and bring your networking questions for Dong!
Do you have questions on home computer networking? Or how about questions on routers or network attached storage? If you do, you've come to the right place!
For one whole hour on Thursday, July 24, starting at 11 a.m. Pacific time (2 p.m. Eastern), CNET Associate Technology Editor for networking and network attached storage, Dong Ngo will be here to answer your questions and discuss anything to do with computer networking--from routers, NAS devices, to home networking.
Don't miss out and bring your networking questions for Dong!
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 7/23/08 5:36 PM
