Modem+wireless router suggestions

[Droll]

I'm moving and require a wireless link to a broadband connection in another room.

What I want is a good+cheap ADSL modem and wireless router combo that will work well with 1 PC wired to it, 1 PC on wireless and the 360 on wireless. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[Commander Jim]

I'm hi-jacking this thread if you don't mind Droll...

I am currently in a very similar situation. Am moving to a house with ADSL, but no modem. Hence, I'm looking for a modem/router for me to use with my 360 and PC. Basically, I want something which will work nicely and is relatively cheap. Wireless would be nice, but if I can save significant dough by going without, I will do that. Also, it'd probably be wise to get one which supports ADSL2 and ADSL, in case the connection gets upgraded in the future.

I've already searched and read through threads on XBW relating to modem/routers, so I have a rough idea what brands, etc. are best for Xbox Live. But, I'd like to hear from anyone who can help me out, as I really need to get this in the next 2 weeks. Once I do, I'll be joining you all on Live! :)

If you suggest certain modem/routers, please also indicate what sort of price it would be. Also, what shops are best for buying this sort of equipment?

In summary, desired aspects of a modem/router for me are:
- can use with 360 and PC (via ethernet connection)
- wireless is not necessary
- supports ADSL and ADSL2
- relatively cheap

[Commander Jim]

Looking through the latest IT Warehouse catalogue, the Netcomm NB5+4 looks like it could be reasonable value for $99 (RRP $120). Just noticed the sale finished on Feb 10th, so would have to find it elsewhere.

-ADSL, ADSL2 and ADSL2+
-USB port
-4-port Ethernet switch
-Advanced security firewall (NAT, SPI and DoS support)
-VPN pass through
-Quality of Service (QoS)
-Ideal for use with VoIP
-Easy Set-up wizard
-Compatible with all major ISPs


http://www.netcomm.com.au/ADSL/adsl.php#NB5PLUS4
The NB5PLUS4 delivers access to the next generation of ADSL technology – ADSL2/2+. With compatibility to all standards of ADSL, this combined modem router has a USB port and 4-port Ethernet switch, which can share an Internet connection with up to 253 wired users. It can easily integrate into a network system. The NB5PLUS4 employs the latest Active Firewall technology ensuring protection against hackers, unauthorised entries, probes and Denial of Service attacks. It also features embedded Port Forwarding rules for popular online games/applications and a Quality of Service (QoS) function that allows you to tailor which types of data are given priority by the router – making it ideal for VoIP-use.


Thoughts? Does anyone have this? Do you think it would be suitable? I'm still after recommendations for other modem/routers please.

[Dominus]

Okay I don't use my 360 via wireless so I can't testify to that, but I have a billion 7402GL router that has been really fantastic! I upgraded from an old Netgear 814 (I think) because it couldn't handle enough simultaneous connections to keep up with my neverending abuse of torrents. I have 1 PC + Xbox 360 connecting wired, 1 PC wireless, and don't have any dramas. The wireless can be a bit iffy but it is going through a brick wall and other 2 rooms to get to its destination, and its just using the standard antenna that came in the box.

Just remember you'll need to get a wireless adaptor for your 360 and those things run at $100-150...my advice is if you can do wired somehow (i.e. a long-ass cord or a bit of drilling and wiring!) that you should do that. If its not possible, you might want to consider one of those high-gain antennas if you think you might have signal-strength problems.

[Droll]

Looking through the latest IT Warehouse catalogue, the Netcomm NB5+4 looks like it could be reasonable value for $99 (RRP $120). Just noticed the sale finished on Feb 10th, so would have to find it elsewhere.

-ADSL, ADSL2 and ADSL2+
-USB port
-4-port Ethernet switch
-Advanced security firewall (NAT, SPI and DoS support)
-VPN pass through
-Quality of Service (QoS)
-Ideal for use with VoIP
-Easy Set-up wizard
-Compatible with all major ISPs


http://www.netcomm.com.au/ADSL/adsl.php#NB5PLUS4
The NB5PLUS4 delivers access to the next generation of ADSL technology – ADSL2/2+. With compatibility to all standards of ADSL, this combined modem router has a USB port and 4-port Ethernet switch, which can share an Internet connection with up to 253 wired users. It can easily integrate into a network system. The NB5PLUS4 employs the latest Active Firewall technology ensuring protection against hackers, unauthorised entries, probes and Denial of Service attacks. It also features embedded Port Forwarding rules for popular online games/applications and a Quality of Service (QoS) function that allows you to tailor which types of data are given priority by the router – making it ideal for VoIP-use.


Thoughts? Does anyone have this? Do you think it would be suitable? I'm still after recommendations for other modem/routers please.

First off - congratulations on bumping a very old thread. It's good to see you got more responses than I did when I posted it :)

Dunno about that router specifically, but the QoS feature it offers would be handy for the 360. I did have issues with some Netcomm dialup modems, but that was a long time ago. Assuming it's a reasonable unit you shouldn't have any problems with it.

Billions, like the one Dom posted, have a very good reputation from what I've read. They seem to be pretty rock solid, although a little more pricey.

I ended up getting a D-Link DSL-G604T. There were some issues with earlier models but mine seems to do ok (it's a later revision). It's a little flaky when setting up though - settings don't seem to stick unless you do a voodoo dance or something. A firmware upgrade might fix that up, but I'm loathe to upgrade firmware unless it's necessary.

[Dominus]

First off - congratulations on bumping a very old thread. It's good to see you got more responses than I did when I posted it :)

LOL, I really need to start looking at the initial post-dates before replying to things, this is like the third time in a week I've done this :chortle: But like you say, at least someone was kind enough to reply I suppose :p

[Commander Jim]

Thanks guys. Dom, I'm not going to use the wireless connection for my 360. I'll just use ethernet cables for both my PC and Xbox 360. Later on when I buy a laptop the wireless will come in handy.

I'm going to go ahead and get the Netcomm NB5+4W from InstantIT ($120 + postage). Will let you know how it handles once I'm all connected!

[Commander Jim]

Well, it works a treat! I'm finally broadbanded, and both my PC and Xbox 360 are running nicely online. I only put in the basic settings to get it going, but have plenty of other options I can enter later on if I need/want.

[Nightrider]

I'd enable the security if I was you. Don't want anyone getting a free ride. :)

[numb nuts]

my combo - billion 5100s in bridge mode with a linksys wrt54g router. I don't use the wireless but this combo has proved faultless. The linksys router is certified for xbox live so there is no rooting around with ports etc. it just works. get a linksys wrt54g and any cheap arse modem that will go into bridge mode and you will be a happy camper.

[Commander Jim]

I'd enable the security if I was you. Don't want anyone getting a free ride. :)
I'm assuming that because the wireless antenna isn't attached, the modem/router wouldn't be transmitting wirelessly. Am I assuming wrongly?

[numb nuts]

Yep you are. Some are set-up to be broadcasting automatically and some you have to go in and switch it on. Check your settings on your router and make sure it is off if you want it off. If you want it on make sure you have your security switched on also.

[NuggetGTR]

Just something else on this, Has anyone actually used the xbox using the wireless adapter, looks like i will be moving in the near future and i may need to go wireless as i dont want wired running all around the house, currently im in a good situation and have cabled up every room in my current house with wall ports but the new house this will not be possible
has anyone noticed poor performance running over wireless with playing online?

As for routers i have a netgear DG834GT and its fantastic!!! had it for about 2 years now and still going strong. and if your looking for a router the same thing as everything applys you get what you pay for!!!

[AJMitchell]

Bump this thread, I need to get a wireless router to move the PC out of the family room and was thinking of getting the 360 Wireless adapter to have a house full of magic internet signals whizzing around.

But as NuggetGTR asked has anyone noticed a dramatic difference in the quality of online play with locals when using the wireless network adapter?

Any recommendations for wireless routers for use with the 360?

I'm a bit tired of only playing Live at 10pm Perth time when the kids have gone to bed so they don't trip over the 10 meter cat 6 cable. The only people on at this time are cockney accented poms, and they do whinge let me tell you!!!

[AJMitchell]

Bump AND nudge.

Is anyone using a Wireless Network Adapter on their 360???

[Commander Jim]

Sorry, can't help. The modem/router I got works great, but I can't vouch for its wireless capabilities as I don't use them.

EDIT: I think there are a few around, but they're very quiet...

[killer1500]

I use wireless, and havent really noticed any difference when playing against locals. In my bedroom it gets a little dodgy (I live in a shed though), but aslong as your within reasonable distance, there isnt alot of metal or a microwave nearby that will interfere, wireless isnt too bad.

It will never beat the cords though,

[AJMitchell]

I use wireless, and havent really noticed any difference when playing against locals. In my bedroom it gets a little dodgy (I live in a shed though), but aslong as your within reasonable distance, there isnt alot of metal or a microwave nearby that will interfere, wireless isnt too bad.

It will never beat the cords though,

Erm, so is that "haven't really noticed any difference" or "never beat the cords"?

I'm really coming up short for some definite answers.