Network management Toolkit

Netgear WPN824 RangeMax review

7.8

Editors' Rating

Xiao Ming Wu CNET

Published: 20 Apr 2005

Netgear's WPN824 RangeMax router is the latest in a growing number of wireless networking devices to feature high-performance MIMO (Multiple In Multiple Out) technology. But the Netgear RangeMax router differs from other MIMO routers we've seen, such as Belkin's Wireless Pre-N Router and Linksys's WRT54GX, because it includes a new technology from Video54 that integrates more antennas into the unit and tucks them inside the unit's case. This gives the RangeMax router a more compact design and a sleeker look than its MIMO counterparts.

All things considered, we think the RangeMax router represents good value, despite its high price, and it's well worth considering for those in the market for a device with excellent range and strong resistance to interference -- from cordless phones or neighbouring networks, for example. Our one caveat is that it doesn't perform so well with legacy 802.11b devices. If you have older Wi-Fi gear on your network, consider Belkin's Pre-N router.

The basic setup routine for the Netgear RangeMax router is a simple and straightforward process that takes only a few minutes. A bundled CD includes a setup wizard that automatically loads when you insert the disc into your computer's optical drive; this then guides you through a short series of on-screen prompts. If you're an advanced user, you can bypass the wizard and connect directly to the RangeMax's browser-based configuration tool. A handy URL that's clearly listed on the printed setup guide points your computer's browser directly to the tool.

Although you can't see it, the RangeMax router's most interesting feature is the MIMO technology on the unit's circuit board. Whereas Belkin and Linksys have opted for Airgo's MIMO solution, Netgear is the first major networking vendor to use a new MIMO solution developed by Video54. Airgo's solution requires three external antennas, while the Video54 solution built into the Netgear unit includes seven internal antennas built right into the unit's circuit board. The WPN824's seven antennas help the router counteract the negative impact of interference by reconfiguring themselves on the fly to adjust to changing environmental conditions. If the signal of one of the transceiving antennas becomes weak, the unit automatically searches for a better signal from the other antennas and adjusts accordingly. Blue LEDs on the top of the unit switch on and off, telling you which antennas are transmitting at any given moment.

The router's browser-based configuration tool includes all the basics; it is host to a number of advanced networking options, including Dynamic DNS support, which helps you set up your own Web site; DMZ assignments, useful for playing games or teleconferencing over the Internet; and URL blocking and logging, which is nice if you want to keep tabs on sites accessed from your network. Security features include an integrated firewall and MAC address filtering, as well as WEP and WPA encryption.

We put the Netgear WPN824 RangeMax through its paces in the labs, and got generally positive results. Running neck and neck with Belkin's Pre-N router, the WPN824 broadened the ranks for the fastest routers we've seen to date when transferring data at close range. The Netgear router also performed very well in the range tests, delivering 34.8Mbps at 61m (200 feet), just less than the 36.4Mbps we clocked with Belkin's Pre-N unit. The mixed-mode tests unearthed the router's main performance weakness: when legacy 802.11b adapters join the network, the WPN824 RangeMax takes a significant performance hit, falling to a maximum throughput of just 15.5Mbps.

Netgear's WPN824 RangeMax router comes with a two-year warranty, while phone support is available on an 0870 number. Netgear recently gave its support Web site a much-needed makeover, but the site is still more difficult to use and offers fewer resources than other sites, such as those hosted by Linksys and D-Link. A detailed FAQ and user forum for the RangeMax router would be welcome additions. The router's lengthy 174-page PDF reference manual offers plenty of useful information, but lacks important basics, such as warranty specifics and contact information.