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CNET editors' review
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CNET editors' rating:
stars
Very good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 01/18/2005
- Released on: 09/27/2004
The Netgear WG302 features a smart, sturdy design that should hold up over the long haul. Because the access point is made of metal, the device feels sturdier than most plastic units. The WG302's dual antennas are removable, and they screw into its back edge, allowing you to add higher-gain antennas for increased range. The WG302's antennas are conveniently adjustable, letting you position them for optimum signal strength.
Like most Wi-Fi products, the Netgear WG302 ships with documentation that's too technical for newbies, marginally excusable because this product targets technophiles. The WG302's installation guide and reference manual are clearer than most, taking you through a setup process that should be easy for experienced users to understand. Configuring the device involves accessing the typical browser-based tool included with nearly all Wi-Fi access points. The WG302's straightforward tool allows you to adjust its fairly extensive features, highlights of which include 64-bit, 128-bit, or 152-bit WEP encryption; WPA support through either PSK (preshared key) or a RADIUS server; MAC address filtering; plus bridge and repeater capabilities.
The Netgear WG302's configuration tool lets you manage the WAP's AutoCell technology. This feature allows the signals emitted by your Wi-Fi adapter to circumvent crowded RF channels already inhabited by other Wi-Fi adapters, cell phones, microwaves, and the like. To take full advantage of the technology, you'll need to install an AutoCell-enabled PC Card, such as the Netgear WAG511, in each of your client computers, in addition to two or more WG302s. The clients will then automatically attempt to connect to the access point with the least amount of traffic. While we didn't conduct formal tests of the AutoCell solution, it does offer a well-organized way to manage load balancing on a noisy network. Environments with lots of interference can benefit from the WG302's enhancements, but it also includes some quirks. For example, you may experience momentary (and annoying) gaps in network access if your Wi-Fi device keeps switching back and forth between APs as new devices come and go. And because the client technology is currently available only in PC Card form, you'll have to spend even more to buy a PC Card-to-PCI adapter should you want to add a desktop to the mix.
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Where to buy
Netgear WG302 access point:
$167.80 - $250.00
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$179.99 | Yes |
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Amazon.com Marketplace
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$167.80 | Yes |
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$159.99 | Yes |
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$179.99 | Yes |
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$178.99 | Yes |
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