Wireless Home Networking - Index of

Chapter 5: Choosing Wireless Home Networking Equipment
Upgradeable firmware
Wireless networking technology is constantly evolving. As a result, many features
of Wi-Fi access points are implemented in updateable software programs
known as firmware. Before you decide which AP to buy, determine whether
you can get feature updates and fixes from the vendor and whether you can
perform the updates by upgrading the firmware (see the nearby sidebar,
“Performing firmware updates,” for some pointers). Check also for updated
management software to match up with the new or improved features
included in the updated firmware.
You may feel that frequent firmware updates are evidence of faulty product
design. However, acknowledging that wireless technology will continue to be
improved, buying a product that can be upgraded to keep pace with these
changes without the need to purchase new equipment can save you money
in the long run.
Price Although we can’t say much directly about price (except that the least expensive
item is rarely the one you want), we should mention other things that
can add to the price of an item. Check out which cables are provided. (Yes,
wireless devices need cables, too!) In an effort to trim costs, some companies
don’t provide the Ethernet cable for your AP that you need for initial setup.
Also, before you buy, check out some of the online price comparison sites,
such as CNET (shopper.cnet.com), Retrevo (www.retrevo.com), and Yahoo!
Shopping (shopping.yahoo.com). Internet specials pop up all the time.
Performing firmware updates
Most firmware updates come in the form of a
downloadable program you run on a computer
connected to the AP (or other device) by a cable
(usually Ethernet, but sometimes USB). Make
sure that you carefully read and follow the
instructions that accompany the downloadable
file. Updating the firmware incorrectly can lead
to real headaches. Here are a few tips:
� Make sure that you make a backup of your
current firmware before performing the
update.
� Never turn off the computer or the AP while
the firmware update is in progress.
� If something goes wrong, look through the
AP documentation for instructions on how
to reset the modem to its factory settings.
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