Wireless-G, the draft version of the forthcoming 802.11g standard, looks great on paper. Low-cost, high-speed 54Mbps throughput and backward compatibility with 802.11b make you wonder why you'd ever pay for a pricey 802.11a device. Unfortunately, the Linksys WRT54G Wireless-G router doesn't quite live up to expectations. Although real-world wireless performance hovers around 50 percent of almost all wireless-device manufacturers' claims, the WRT54G delivers even less than that. Also disappointing is its operating range, which is considerably shorter than that of an 802.11b router. Worst of all, connect the Linksys WRT54G to both Wireless-G and 802.11b network adapters simultaneously, and its speed bumps down closer to 802.11b levels. Linksys claims this last problem has been fixed by a firmware revision, but when we tested the new firmware, we noticed only moderate improvement. With more firmware updates likely in the future, we recommend that you skip 802.11g for now.
Caption by: Eric Knorr
Speck Presidio cases for Samsung Galaxy Note 9: Multi-layer drop protection with no-slip grip
The Galaxy Note 9 has a high level of dust and water resistance, but it is still made of glass panels and isn't made to be dropped. Speck released a couple of cases that satisfy the Designed ...
Reviews round-up: 14 bits of kit we've checked out in the past month
From Apple's refreshed MacBooks to Nokia's reborn 'banana phone', here are 14 devices our reviewers got their hands on during August.
LifeProof Next for Samsung Note 9: Clear drop protection with little added bulk
The Galaxy Note 9 has a high level of dust and water resistance, but it is still made of glass panels and isn't made to be dropped. LifeProof has a case option designed to protect from drops ...
Incipio DualPro for Samsung Galaxy Note 9: Good looks and two layers drop protection
The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 has IP68 dust and water resistance, but it is still a glass sandwich. Incipio offers dual layer shock protection with five color options. ...
UAG Monarch for Samsung Galaxy Note 9: Stylish leather and metal drop protection
There are plenty of cases available for the most popular smartphones, but my absolute favorite comes from Urban Armor Gear. The UAG Monarch provides the style and protection I want ...
Zulu Audio wearable speakers: Enjoy high quality mobile audio safely
It can be dangerous having your ears plugged or covered while working or exercising, but there are new alternatives that let you enjoy audio and still have both ears available for ambient ...
Reviews round-up: 18 devices we've looked at in the past month
From the new Nokia smartphone to notebooks and wireless headsets, here are 18 bits of kit our reviewers tested in July.
Join Discussion