Cisco-Linksys WGA54G Wireless-G Gaming Adapter Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This took me about 2 hours to set up, after about 20 attempts. The hardware works fine, but both the setup utility and the operating manual are poor and only handle connecting to simple networks. I have a non-standard (read: I didn't let Microsoft set up my network automatically) network and a Linksys Wireless G router, with 128 bit WEP (encryption) as well as MAC filtering set on. (My neighbor across the street also has a wireless network, which I didn't know until I started fooling around with this one.)
In essence, if you use a router gateway to the net (which you absolutely should for its inherent hardware firewall capabilities) and you use wireless encryption (which you absolutely should to make it difficult for a techie neighbor from eavesdropping in on your network) you must set this device up manually. Not only that, but you have to set up your game machine network settings manually as well.
First, routers usually also act as DHCP servers (meaning that they'll automatically give an IP address to anything logging onto the network). That means that unless you give the device a static IP address you're never sure which address your game machine will have when it boots up. The same thing is true of the WGA54G. Unless you specify a proper static IP address and netmask, it won't connect. So you have to give both the game machine and the WGA54G (different) static addresses within the range of your local network and which don't conflict with any existing devices.
Secondly, if you do MAC filtering, you need to realize that the WGA54G has TWO ethernet adapters: the wired one (which you stick the cable plug into) and the wireless one (that connects to the antenna). The MAC address of the WIRELESS device must be included in the filter settings of your router, or it'll be blocked. Linksys doesn't make it clear how to find that address (it gives you the wired MAC address on the label), but the wireless MAC device is one of the two MACs you've got to include in your
router's filter list. (Hint: it's one digit higher than the wired MAC address -- just add 1 to the last two hex digits). The other MAC address needed is of the IP adapter contained in your game device (or attachment). That you have to obtain from your game network setup screens. I'm not completely sure why the WGA54G's wired adapter address isn't needed, my guess is that since it doesn't make any packet requests of the wireless router (interacts only with the game machine) it's not "seen" by the router.
You'll have to all of this by logging into the WGA54G's built in HTTP (web) server interface and your router's interface, not with the setup software on the disk.
Finally (on the Xbox, anyway), you've got to specify another static IP address for the game adaptor AND specify the router address as the DNS server (remember it allocates IP addresses for connected devices and stands between you and the internet, translating your network requests to the outside world.
If this sounds like Greek to you, well you're in good company. But this device is not inexpensive and is promoted as being easy to use.
It may be that Linksys can't tailor its software to every situation, but they can certainly write better documentation to help novices cope with the issues raised by slightly more complicated local networks. I also think that its odd that a wi-fi "G" device doesn't support the newer and more secure WPA encryption standards (which Linksys certainly includes in its wireless routers). That means that you will have to run your whole network on WEP encryption if you have this device set up, because WPA devices can't coexist with WEP encryption. WEP can be hacked, and WPA basically, cannot (unless you're a lot spookier than the average wardriver).
Yeah, it runs kind of hot, and yeah its LED lights are kind of strange, but who cares about that? The problem with this device is that it seems to have been shipped too early and because it's a game device is not being seriously supported or updated by Linksys in the same way that they'd support a "serious" device.
Like I said, the hardware seems to work fine (haven't experienced any of the dropped signals others report here), it's the software and documentation that's lacking.
Is there a better alternative? I don't know, I don't have the money and time to find out and I got this puppy running, so I'm movin' on to other things. I do know that Linksys is a decent manufacturer and can do better.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cisco-Linksys WGA54G Wireless-G Gaming Adapter

Item #: 804442. The Wireless-G Game Adapter gives any wired Ethernet-equipped game console wireless connection capabilities. The Game Adapter can be used in two different ways. If you have an existing home wireless network and a cable or DSL Internet connection, the Game Adapter lets your PlayStation 2, Xbox or GameCube attach to the network so you can get into online games without running wires to the game room. Or, use a pair of Game Adapters to form a "cable-less cable" between two game consoles for head-to-head gaming - in the same room, or all the way across the house.It's completely driver-free, so it works on any platform. Since there are no drivers to load, setup is a snap. In some cases, it works right out of the box! If your setup's a little different - just configure the network settings through your PC's web browser, plug it into your game box, and go.The Wireless-G Game Adapter provides lag-free gaming with communication speeds up to 54Mbps when connected to other Wireless-G devices. It can also connect to Wireless-B (802.11b) devices and networks at 11Mbps.Spend your time gaming, not stringing wires, with the Linksys Wireless-G Game Adapter. Product Description: Linksys Instant Wireless Wireless-G Game Adapter WGA54G - network adapterDevice Type: Network adapterForm Factor: ExternalInterface (Bus) Type: EthernetDimensions (WxDxH): 6.3 in x 3.9 in x 1.4 inWeight: 0.4 lbsData Link Protocol: IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11gData Transfer Rate: 54 MbpsFrequency Band: 2.4 GHzCompliant Standards: IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11gManufacturer Warranty: 3 years warranty Customers also search for: Discount Linksys Instant Wireless Wireless-G Game Adapter WGA54G - Network Adapter, Buy Linksys Instant Wireless Wireless-G Game Adapter WGA54G - Network Adapter, Wholesale Linksys Instant Wireless Wireless-G Game Adapter WGA54G - Network Adapter, 0745883555826, WGA54G, Network Adapters

Click here for more information about Cisco-Linksys WGA54G Wireless-G Gaming Adapter

Read More...

TRENDnet Wireless N Gaming Adapter TEW-647GA (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First off, I had been keeping my eye out for a cheap alternative to the 360's wireless adapter for sometime now, and when I saw this unit as apart of Amazon's lightning deals for $30, I couldn't pass that up.
Before buying this unit, I was sure to peruse for reviews to see other peoples' luck with the item and was left a bit confused on how the product would work. After playing around with the various settings and getting it to work, I want to just clear the confusion on how this will perform. Also, I have a Bachelors in Computer Networking, not that that means anything, but I have had a good bit of experience playing around with different routers/switches and while reading through the reviews I was left baffled by the varying contradicting opinions of the product.***On a side-note, these types of At Home networking devices are aimed at ease-of-use and my experience had very little effect on how much more/less difficulty I had getting the product to work other than enabling me to filter out the weaker/inane reviews of the product.
Let me clear up the marketing confusion first. This item is a Wireless adapter. IT WILL ALLOW YOU TO CONNECT VARIOUS ITEMS WITH AN ETHERNET JACK TO YOUR WIRELESS NETWORK. That means if you have a desktop with an ethernet jack in the back that you would like to be able to hook up to your WIFI without stringing it to your router, this will work. For the "gamer's" that for some reason this item is targeting(most likely the xbox 360 owners), this item works flawlessly and comes strongly suggested given a few caveats(i.e a bit more cumbersome than Microsoft's options Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G Networks Only,Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G & N Networks given that it has to be plugged into an electrical outlet).
I'll try to give you guys a step-by-step run through of how the configuration process worked for me.
First, I plugged it into an outlet and connected an ethernet cable from my PC to the unit(for the non-techies out there, this should work the same regardless of the Operating System you're on).
Second, I popped in the CD that came included and loaded the router setup software off of the CD. This step was a breeze given that there was no installation of anything onto your computer, as other reviewers had falsely alluded to.
Once in the router setup software, I did run into a few odd hiccups that slowed the overall process. The software was able to find the device right away and I was off and running setting up the unit, although almost every time I hit OK or Next through the prompts, I was returned with something like "Error, the changes were not made" though they were... Other than that, the setup was pretty quick and painless and should be no problem to those that dread anything techie like many of those in my family, given that they read the manual and follow the instructions. And once you have it setup to your wireless network, it'll pretty much connect any of your devices that has Ethernet port to your wireless without having to run through the setup process again. All the settings are saved so you can just move the unit anywhere. As long as you don't tweak anything in your router, this unit should be able to be unplugged and moved around as much as you like and still connect you every time.
**My issues with the strange contradictory error messages were solved once I upgraded to the latest firmware
As for performance, this unit has worked flawlessly for my needs. I was playing Left 4 Dead 2 and a few other games through it on my 360 and had no significant lag or difference between playing through this unit over playing it hooked up to my router with an ethernet cord. I also tried streaming a few movies from my PC, and again, it worked flawlessly while I fast forwarded/backward and skipped chapters. Though I have yet to try streaming anything HD from services like Netflix, I don't imagine anyone would have any problems given the much more than sufficient bandwidth that this unit provides as long as you have a capable internet connection from your Internet Service Provider. I also unplugged my computer from the router and plugged it into this unit just for kicks and, unsurprisingly, it works just as it should.
The device itself is surprisingly small and sleek, though it is a bit of a finger-print magnet. Something of note too, is at the top of the router lies a Wifi Protected Setup button(WPS) that I'm guessing would make the process even easier by eliminating the need for the PC setup process if your router has support for it, mine did not, so I can't comment on that.
Overall, I would strongly recommend this product to anyone looking for a cheap way to connect their devices up to their wireless network. Even if I hadn't gotten it on Amazon's sale, knowing what I know now about it, I would gladly buy this unit again. That's my 2 cents anyways and I hope it helped.
**Update
So after about 4 months of owning this product I am still very satisfied with my purchase. I did run into a pretty frustrating problem after my house lost power. My router was reset and the Trendnet adapter did not seem to want to stay connected. After a bit of poking around, I managed to fix the issue by going through Trendnet's provided setup software again and giving the device a Static IP. It's been working flawlessly since. (*Of note though, this doesn't seem to be an isolated issue, I have seen a few other reviewers state having inconsistent connection issues as well. If you get that issue, just try what I did and the device will be working the way it should in no time.)

Click Here to see more reviews about: TRENDnet Wireless N Gaming Adapter TEW-647GA (Black)

The Wireless N Gaming Adapter (TEW-647GA) connects your favorite Ethernet-ready gaming console to a lag-free wireless n network. No need to locate your gaming station near an Internet connection cut your cables and start winning with highperformance wireless n. Setup is quick and simple, with no drivers to install. Works with Nintendo Wii , Xbox , Xbox 360and PlayStation 2 and 3. Connect multiple gaming consoles wirelessly and play head-to-head or challenge others over the Internet in multiplayer mode. The latest in wireless encryption ensures wireless security. Advanced Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) antenna technology reduces wireless dead spots. Wireless Protected Setup (WPS) lets you integrate other WPS devices into your secured network quickly.

Get 47% OFF

Click here for more information about TRENDnet Wireless N Gaming Adapter TEW-647GA (Black)

Read More...

NETGEAR WNCE2001 Universal WiFi Internet Adapter Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Excellent product, very easy to setup and use. Glad someone found how to make a device that will allow electronic devices that can only take ethernet connectiion but are far away from a Router and running a Cat5 Cable is not an option.
I have Replay TV DVR that only takes ethernet cable to update TV Guide and due to this I was stuck with using this unit only at a location where I had access to ethernet cable, I bought the Netgear WNCE2001 and now I am able to use my Replay TV anywhere around the house.
I also tried connecting this to a 24 port switch and was able to plug in devices into the switch and access internet...so in essence it made my 24 port switch into a 24 port wireless switch.

Click Here to see more reviews about: NETGEAR WNCE2001 Universal WiFi Internet Adapter

What is NETGEAR's Universal WiFi Internet Adapter? Connects HDTVs, game consoles, and Blu-ray players to the Internet, Connects any device with a network port to existing Home Wireless Network, Wirelessly connects networked home theater devices to your home network, Universal - works with any network enabled device. No need to buy a Wi-Fi adapter that only works with one type of device, Avoid long stringing cables. Freedom to place your home entertainment center anywhere and still connect to the Internet, Learn more at www.netgear.com/connectWiFi, Package Contents, Universal WiFi Internet Adapter (WNCE2001) - Mounting kit, Ethernet cable, USB power cable, Power adapter, localized to country of sale

Get 25% OFF

Click here for more information about NETGEAR WNCE2001 Universal WiFi Internet Adapter

Read More...