Computer geek needs advice from fellow geeks

[SyracuseWolvrine]

In the process of setting up the (mostly wireless) network in my parents new home, I've run into a stumbling block or two.

Computers that are using the wireless connection (provided by a Belkin wireless/wired router/firewall device) are noticing a large amount of dropped packets, and an inability to post on websites (I'm posting this from a computer connected via the wired connection)

I believe the problem is due to the wireless router, as the computers are all getting a connection, and are able to surf, but not able to post (on multiple message boards).

I've also noticed that, at least to me, the Belkin Router's interface seems kludgy, and not all that well thought out.

With that being said, I think I'm looking to replace this router. Looking for suggestions either on devices to get, or devices to avoid.

Functional requirements:
- 802.11b or 802.11g/b compatibility
- excellent wireless range (i'm willing to replace antennae if I have to, but would prefer not to ... in the event that I do replace antennae, I don't have a soldering iron, so something with a modular antenna connection would be preferred)
- rock-solid stability, so for times that I'm not at home, my parents don't have to worry about the router acting up.

Suggestions?

 

[oogieboogie]

I'm suggesting D-Link. I've had one for over 4 years now. I started with the wired ones and now have the wireless one. Never had a problem with them, except last night when the hardware blew out. Called customer service and they tried to work it out, but couldn't so they're sending me an RMA for it.

Other than that, they're very stable, no problems at all, and I have 3 PCs hardwired and 1 laptop wireless. There are 5 co-workers of mine that also got D-Link routers for their home and none have had any problems whatsever.

I tried the Linksys one before I went to D-Link but it was real clunky and I couldn't get the laptop to connect no matter what I tried. I got so fed up with it, I switched to the D-Link.

 

[lucky_bunni]

I would highly recommend Apple's new Airport Express. I have the older version of the Airport and it very, very rarely acts up... like maybe once or twice yearly. And all you have to do is reset it. The new one is really compact and compatible with Windows and Mac. On the other end I have dealt with 3-Com and D-Link wireless routers, both of which have been a pain in the butt. They are hard to set up and constantly need to be reset and reconfigured. The Apple is pretty reasonable now too, at just $129 and you can hook your stereo up to it too.

 

[Dan Murphy]

Using Netgear here and happy. It works, that's all I know.

 

[SyracuseWolvrine]

Looked at the Netgear routers, but they didn't have replaceable antennae, looked at the Apple, but it was too expensive, ended up with a Linksys router that got good reviews on eOpinions. Thanks for the help Dan, Lucky_bunni, and oogieboogie