A Multi-function Network Device in White
Buy Now...
First it was computer grey (and still going strong), then black made inroads into the popularity stakes with regards to the colour of choice for computer devices. Now, thanks no doubt to the influence of Apples iPod, we are seeing devices coloured white on a more regular basis. One company that is following this particular trend is NETGEAR with its various network products.
Recently I looked at the companys all-white RangeMax Wireless Router (http://www.gadgetspeak.com/gadget/article.rhtm?topicID=758&articleID=235366) and now it is the turn of NETGEARs ADSL Modem Router (model DG632). This product, as you might expect from its title, combines modem and router capabilities within a single unit. Again an all-white livery is used for this moulded plastic device which measures 175 x 118 x 28mm (W x D x H).
This product keeps all its various connection options along the back of the unit while a clear transparent plastic collar covers the other three sides. Various LED lights decorate the front of the DG632 and provide feedback information regarding the status of the unit. Doubling as an aid to ventilation and an attractive design feature are a series of teeth-like perforations running around the outside edge of both the top and bottom of the box.
The DG632 can be positioned flat (my preference) or stood on an end supported by two plastic supporters (again white coloured so as to spoil the effect). Connectivity is provided via Ethernet and USB. These can be used individually or in combination. The former method offers 10Base-T or 100Base-Tx. Cables are supplied for Ethernet and USB linkage plus you also get a phone cable and filter device for connecting to a phone socket.
Basic instructions are provided for connecting and setting up the modem/router. This should have been straightforward and certainly started off that way until I reached the configuration procedure. At this point I ran into what seemed like a brick wall, with little help offered by the supplied instructions, when I was unable to connect to the router by the recommended method. Fortunately NETGEARs Technical Support came to the rescue with a solution. The cause of my problems was a conflict with a previous Broadband modem installation.
Once references to this modem were removed I was able to access the NETGEAR Smart wizard which automatically detected the best settings for the current broadband connection. Included among the various features provided by the DG632 is support for a speed of up to 8 Mbps network downstream and 800 Kbps upstream. For good measure you get Firewall protection; Network Address Translation (NAT) for securing the network; and a Virtual Private Network (VPN) pass-through.
Unfortunately another problem appeared regarding emails. The modem had no trouble collection messages from POP3 accounts but was unable to access Hotmail accounts. As yet this is an unresolved problem. In other respects this modem provides quick and reliable Internet access in conjunction with its router functionality
The DG632 is an attractive, compact and powerful device. Not only does this product have eye-appeal but it should be able to handle your network, broadband modem and firewall needs without overstretching the budget too much. Its price should be in the region of £50.
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