- Backward-compatible with 802.11g
- Excels in mixed networks
- High-speed GbE ports
- Web interface confusing
- USB ports don't support storage or print sharing
Bottom Line
The D-Link DIR-655 is an older model, but it has staying power and is still available. It's slower than current wireless-N routers, but it has proved reliable and stable over the long-run.
Ease of Use
Web interface is difficult to use. The D-Link DIR-655 has staying power: Since its launch in 2007, the unit has had continual firmware updates. Most owners say setup is relatively easy, but the web-based management interface is complex and cluttered.
Performance
Fast for its time. The D-Link DIR-655 uses N300 technology with a speed of 300 Mbps on its single band. It can compete with newer N900 routers, though.
Features
Can prioritize data traffic. Users of the DIR-655 can give priority to certain high-bandwidth applications, such as online games and streaming video, and relegate less important data transfers to a lower service tier. It has one USB 2.0 port and is Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) enabled.
| D-Link Wireless N+300 Mbps Extreme-N Gigabit Router (DIR-655) | |
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Our Sources
1. PCMag.com
Review Credibility: Good PCMag.com conducts a roundup review of several models. The D-Link DIR-655 has great short-range speeds, but a complex management interface holds it back. Robert Lipschutz says he is disappointed that the unit's USB ports don't support print sharing or a storage device.
Review: D-Link Xtreme N Gigabit Router (DIR-655), Robert P. Lipschutz, April 18, 2007
2. Amazon.com
Review Credibility: Good The D-Link DIR-655 is the subject of more than 2,000 user reviews at Amazon.com, most of which are either 4- or 5-star ratings (out of 5). However, some owners complain of difficulties with installation or customer support.
Review: D-Link DIR-655 Extreme-N Gigabit Wireless Router, Contributors to Amazon.com, As of January 2013
3. Small Net Builder.com
Review Credibility: Good SmallNetBuilder.com has the most comprehensive, technical and complex review of the D-Link DIR-655. Speeds are good, but the sophisticated security features and gaming priority features propel it ahead of other routers, Tim Higgins says.
Review: D-Link DIR-655 Xtreme N Gigabit Router Review: Draft 2.0 Arrives, Tim Higgins, July 9, 2007
4. PC & Tech Authority (Australia)
Review Credibility: Fair PC & Tech Authority compares seven wireless routers in this roundup. Testing is good, but it's not quite as thorough as the above sources. The D-Link DIR-655 isn't the fastest router, but its features, software-based setup and good range result in its top ranking.
Review: Draft-N Wireless Routers, Jim Martin, Feb. 29, 2008
5. Wi-FiPlanet.com
Review Credibility: Fair This review is greatly enhanced with screen shots. Craig Ellison tests the D-Link DIR-655 with the recommended network card. The combo performs well, although he finds setup to be a bit sticky.
Review: D-Link Xtreme N Gigabit Router, Craig Ellison
6. CRN.com
Review Credibility: Fair This is another superb roundup of four wireless routers, although these models have had firmware upgrades. The D-Link DIR-655 performs well, but the interface on the Trendnet TEW-631 is better.
Review: Review: 4 Routers Take Wi-Fi to Nth Level, Marc Spiwak, Jan. 29, 2007
7. Information Week
Review Credibility: Fair InformationWeek.com tests six wireless-N routers, including the D-Link DIR-655. Real-world testing is solid and relevant. Don Reisinger praises the DIR-655's speed and game-priority feature, but it's dinged for its overly complex web-based setup.
Review: Review: 6 Ultrafast 802.11n Wi-Fi Routers, Don Reisinger, Feb. 8, 2008
8. Arstechnica.com
Review Credibility: Fair ArsTechnica.com reviews four Wireless-N routers, with testing in a challenging home environment. The D-Link DIR-655 router has a tough time maintaining a good connection through walls and doors -- although with no obstructions, speeds are very fast. Todd Haselton likes the included software that helps novices set up the router.
Review: A Need for Speed: 802.11n Router Roundup, Todd Haselton, Nov. 5, 2007
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