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Wireless Routers
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- Backward-compatible with 802.11g
- Excels in mixed networks
- Gaming-priority mode
- Doesn't conflict with other wireless devices
- High-speed Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Web interface confusing
- USB ports don't support storage or print sharing
The D-Link DIR-655 Xtreme N Gigabit Router excels in tests, and the ability to give priority to activities like online gaming adds to the appeal. Many reviewers say the D-Link DIR-655 is one of the best wireless routers overall. It also has staying power; since its launch in 2007, the D-Link DIR-655 router has had continual firmware updates. Most critics say setup is relatively easy, but the web-based management interface is complex and cluttered. The other drawback is price.
InformationWeek.com, ArsTechnica.com, CRN.com, PCMag.com and PC Authority all compare the D-Link DIR-655 in roundups of at least four routers. These reviewers don't just choose the best of each bunch. They also determine whether buying a Wireless-N router makes sense in the first place. Currently, most experts recommend it, as Wireless-N has evolved a lot in the time since these reviews were published. SmallNetBuilder.com and Wi-FiPlanet.com conduct excellent testing, but they report the results in technical language that's harder to understand.
| D-Link DIR-655 Extreme-N Gigabit Wireless Router | |
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Our Sources
InformationWeek.com tests six Wireless-N routers, including the D-Link DIR-655. Real-world testing is solid and relevant. Don Reisinger describes the ease of setup and use and publishes test results. The D-Link DIR-655 is praised for its 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
ArsTechnica.com reviews four Wireless-N wireless routers, with testing in a challenging home environment. Test results vary from other reviews in that the D-Link DIR-655 router has a tough time maintaining a good connection through walls and doors (though, 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
3. CRN.com
This is another superb roundup of four wireless routers, although these models have subsequently had firmware upgrades. The D-Link DIR-655 wireless router 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
4. Amazon.com
The D-Link DIR-655 is the subject of more than 1,275 user reviews at Amazon.com, many of which are either 4-star or perfect 5-star ratings. Of the complaints, some are for installation difficulties, while others are customer-support gripes.
Review: D-Link DIR-655 Extreme N Wireless Router, Contributors to Amazon.com
SmallNetBuilder.com has the most comprehensive, technical and complex review of the D-Link DIR-655. Speeds are good in testing, but the sophisticated security features and QoS (gaming priority) features propel it ahead of other routers.
Review: D-Link DIR-655 Xtreme N Gigabit Router Review: Draft 2.0 Arrives, Tim Higgins, July 9, 2007
PC Authority (Australia) compares seven wireless routers in this roundup. Testing is good, but not quite as thorough as the above sources. The D-Link DIR-655 isn't the faster 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
This review is greatly enhanced with screen shots. Ellison tests the D-Link DIR-655 with the recommended network card. The combo performs well, although setup is a bit sticky.
Review: D-Link Xtreme N Gigabit Router, Craig Ellison, Feb. 9, 2007
PCMag.com also 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. Lipschutz is disappointed that the USB ports don't support print sharing or a storage device.
Review: Draft-N Wireless Routers, Robert P. Lipschutz, April 18, 2007
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