This time we introduce to you three devices from Level 1, which cover different target user groups: WBR-3460A, WBR-3408 and WAP-0006. WBR-3460 is ADSL/ADSL2+ router, WBR-3408 is Wireless AP Broadband router and WAP-0006 is Wireless LAN. So, something for everyone. Let's see...

This is a typical representative of ADSL2+ router class. It has integrated 4-port switch, ADSL2+ modem and Wireless AP. ADSL2+ modem exists in two versions as Annex A and Annex B, depending on type of phone port – classic or ISDN type. You should check before shopping, what Annex you need (ADSL connection is connection with outer world). WBR-3460 can also be Shared Broadband Router that enables sharing of Internet connection among all users in local area.

It creates Local area through its switch (4 ports) or through Wireless. That is more than enough for creating smaller local network at home or smaller office. Device configuration is realized through standard Web interface. WBR-3460 can be setup with Setup Wizard, which activates right after booting up the computer, and this way is recommended for less experience users. This wizard helps user to setup basic parameters and creates functional system that will satisfy most users. For advanced settings you have at your disposal complete functionality of standard interface. Supported functions are: DHCP, NAT, PAT, Virtual Servers, dynamic DNS, Firewall, VPN support, DoS protection, URL filter etc. We don’t want to mention every single option, but there is enough for everyone. What we must mention is Wireless section that supports 802.11 b and g standard and additionally B+ and G+. These two additional protocols are implemented in Texas Instruments chip and enable better performances: up to 50%. But they are supported only by TI chips, so you must have compatible device on the other side. Also, Mac Filtering option is singled out and this option provides blocking of any computer on Wireless network that isn’t defined as Trusted. Only computers added in Trusted Wireless stations list will have access to network.

Encryption of wireless communications goes through WEP or WPA-PSK protocols. Device has option to be set in Modem mode and then it works as ADSL modem and all router functions are off. This mode is used for special occasions and it is not recommended for everyone. Device status can be monitored on LED indicator on front side or true Web interface, which shows much more status information. Special place in this article must be given to VPN option that lately has become prerequisite for any kind of safe work from distant locations. 

WBR-3460 can be VPN Gateway for client computers or it is possible to create VPN connection between two VPN Gateways. The second method enables merging of two distant office locations in one virtual local network by using IPSec protocol for data encryption. We should also mention possibility of sending e-mail messages at administrator’s address (if WBR-3460 detects DoS attack, Port Scan or approach attempt to forbidden addresses on Internet).

In last couple of years there are more and more modems that have also LAN port for connecting with computer. If that is the case, than it is not necessary for you to buy new modem to expand your network functionality, like for example adding computer or installing Wireless. WBR-3408 is attended just for these assignments.

This Broadband Router (11g Wireless1W 4L, QoS) has 1WAN, 4 LAN ports and Wireless AP speeds up to 54Mbps. Through WAN port (Ethernet connection) it can be connected to ADSL or cable modem. This router, small in dimensions, can easily take role of switch, Wireless AP and router for local network. If we compare it with previously described model we must tell you that it is very noticeably smaller device. Also, instead of ADSL port exists WAN port.
For all less experienced users we must underline that in ADSL port goes phone cable that is connected to ADSL splitter on your phone line, and in WAN port goes Ethernet cable.

If you put ADSL in WAN port you can cause serious permanent damage of your device. From software point of view, both devices have very similar graphic interface and differences are mainly in settings for ADSL. In Wireless section are missing B+ and G+ modes, which gives certain advantage to WBR-3460 model.

Also 3408 doesn’t have support for VPN. But it has Access Control function that doesn’t exist on 3460. It is also possible to create four groups of PC users with different levels and hierarchy for Internet access. It is also possible to block whole traffic, some services or block traffic in some time intervals. Multi-DMZ is supported; more computers can have DMZ function.

In sea of all-in-one devices attended for all possible scenarios, it’s seems that manufacturers just forgot on simple devices with one basic function. One of those simple models is 11g Wireless AP WAP-0006. This is the smallest from these three tested devices, a true pocket edition.
Unfortunately, external power supply violates its “pocket usage” character but you can take it on a trip with no problems.

If you need device without external power supplying i.e. supplying is realized through network cable (POE) you should than definitely take into consideration WAP-0009 model. WAP-0006 has only one antenna port and one LAN port. Wireless function supports 802.11 b and g standards and has options for all necessary adjustments for safe wireless network: ESSID, WEP, WPAC2, MAC filtrating, 802.1x. Except for DHCP, there are none additional router services which confirm fact that this is classic Access Point.

WAP-0006 can work in all possible modes: AP, Station (Ad-Hoc), AP Client, AP-Bridge (Point to Point), AP-Bridge (Point to Multi-point), AP Bridge- WDS, Universal Repeater. This number of options makes it ideal for WISP systems when providers offer “wireless internet”. Thanks to Web Interface it is possible to see all available WLAN networks, adjust all necessary connection parameters and voila there is your wireless communication.

One more ideal situation for WAP-0006 usage is connecting of some older LAN device to wireless network, like for example network printer.

Conclusion

The shortest conclusion would be: there is something for everyone. If you just need to install ADSL or you want to replace your less functional ADSL modem, you should purchase WBR-3460. It has all that you need for access and sharing of ADSL internet connection and offers QoS control quality so all programs can function quite satisfactory. If you want to just expand your internet connection you can take WBR-3408. It will bring you freedom in form of wireless communication and safety of encrypted channels. If your goal is to add wireless segment to your network, to patch a hole in covered area or to connect on your WISP, tiny WAP-0006 would be the right choice for you.



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