Linksys WUSBF54G Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with Wi-Fi Finder review

Linksys does a great job with the WUSBF54G's documentation, including a straightforward, hard-copy installation guide and a comprehensive electronic user guide on CD--both of which are packaged inside a nice mini folder. Installing the WUSBF54G and its configuration utility was a simple and straightforward exercise that took just a few minutes. We proceeded to manipulate the device's many settings, which include the ability to connect to a network automatically via DHCP or by specifying your own IP address and subnet mask. The device also supports both WEP and WPA security, with or without an associated RADIUS server. Lastly, you can use the utility to view stats on wireless networks in the area and to create and store handy profiles for the travel spots you visit most.

We gauged the Linksys WUSBF54G's real-world performance using CNET's Bandwidth Meter. In our tests of the adapter in several locations, the device achieved an average throughput speed of 17Mbps; though this doesn't compare to the speed of MIMO adapters, such as the Belkin Pre-N PC Card, it's fast enough for the basic e-mailing and Web surfing needs of most travelers.

The Linksys WUSBF54G ships with a long three-year warranty. The company's toll-free tech support lines are conveniently open 24/7. In addition to the typical troubleshooting database, the Linksys support Web site offers a useful live chat feature that links you to a virtual support rep.