Fast Ethernet Wireless Access Points

The Bottom Line: The SMCWTK-G is a fast, easy way to add Wi-Fi to an Ethernet connection, but we like 3Com's travel router a little better.

Specs: SMC EZ Connect g SMCWTK-G Wireless Traveler's Kit - Wireless access point, Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Fast Ethernet, 54 Mbps

The Bottom Line: This access point's high price will seem fair to those with a lot of wireless equipment.

Specs: NETGEAR WG302 802.11g ProSafe Wireless Access Point - Wireless access point, Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Fast Ethernet, 54 Mbps

The Bottom Line: This access point's speed is nice, but its competition offers greater configurability and easier setup--and Actiontec's support quality is dicey.

Specs: Actiontec Wireless access point, Ethernet, IEEE 802.11a, Fast Ethernet, 72 Mbps

The Bottom Line: This wireless bridge does a competent job at connecting Ethernet devices to a wireless network or extending a WLAN's range, but its price is high.

Specs: Linksys Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge WET54G - Bridge, Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, 54 Mbps

The Bottom Line: With its outstanding performance and compatibility with 802.11b gear, Netgear's WG602 delivers on the promise of the upcoming 802.11g standard.

Specs: NETGEAR WG602 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point - Wireless access point, Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Fast Ethernet, 54 Mbps

The Bottom Line: The AirPort Extreme performs well in a close-knit 802.11g network, but it's not fast enough in mixed mode to warrant upgrading.

Specs: Apple AirPort Extreme Base Station - Wireless access point, Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Fast Ethernet, 54 Mbps

The Bottom Line: If you need an access point with great range that can also double as a wireless bridge, look no further than the AirPointPro.

Specs: smartBridges airPointPro sB2500 - Wireless access point, Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, Fast Ethernet, 11 Mbps

The Bottom Line: The Linksys offers small businesses 802.11a bandwidth and the increased range of 802.11b at a price that's hard to beat.

Specs: Linksys Instant Wireless WAP51AB - Wireless access point, Ethernet, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, Fast Ethernet, 72 Mbps

The Bottom Line: With its simultaneous support of 802.11a and 802.11b, the Intel Pro/Wireless 5000 LAN dual access point is well suited to open office areas packed with wireless PCs.

Specs: Intel PRO/Wireless 5000 LAN Dual Access Point - Wireless access point, Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, 54 Mbps

The Bottom Line: The WAP54A gives small-business users excellent performance and top-notch security in an affordable and easy-to-configure package. But its warranty is just average.

Specs: Linksys Instant Wireless WAP54A - Wireless access point, Ethernet, IEEE 802.11a, Fast Ethernet, 72 Mbps