I want a new wireless router that is faster how do I know what is good.?

Question

I already have a linksys cable modem and a wireless router but it is only 54mbps. I want something that is alot faster but I'm not sure what kind to get and what the letters mean on the box like G, G+, N, N1.

Answer 1

Why do you need faster?  Wireless-G is 54mb, so going to N is twice as fast, but it doesn't affect your Internet speed, only your speed of transfer between computers on your local network!

If your broadband Internet connection is 1.5mb DSL, or 3mb cable or even 10mb FIOS, that's what limits your speed- not your router.   Even an old 11mb  Wireless-B router is over 3X faster than the maximum download speed of 3mb cable connections.   Your existing G-router supports speeds more then 5X faster than a 10mb Internet connection.  See the chart below for comparisons between letters.

What speed does your cable company provide?

Answer 2

Your current wireless router is a G type since it is capable of 54 Mbps.  If you are just sharing an Internet connection then you won't see any improvement by going to a pre N type router and WiFi adapters in your computers.  If you are online gaming you'll see some improvement but probably not a lot because WiFi still has far more latency over hardwired Ethernet.

Answer 3

N is the best by far.  Before you go out and purchase a new router, I think powerline is cheaper for you and faster.

In order for you to enjoy the speed, most likely you will have to get a new router and new wireless adapters for your computers.  Instead of waiting money on that, check out these 2 links:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=NoBYr3EzkPw

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductLis...

If you find yourself using all powerline and no wireless, disable your wireless completely by accessing your router's interface.

You still need wifi for things like ipods and PDAs that want to access the Internet.  Most likely, you are roaming around your house with an ipod, and you probably don't want to be plugged into a wall outlet as you are running on the treadmill listening to your songs.