| Netgear WGR614L Open Source Wireless-G Router (Compatible with Linux) |
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Model: WGR614L-100NAS
Brand: Netgear
Manufacturer: Netgear
Average Rating: 
(submit your review here)
Total Reviews: 19
Form factor: External
Hardware platform: PC
Data link protocol: Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g
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| Features: |
Open source 802.11G router allows Linux users and developers create custom firmware for special applications
Switch with four 10/100 Mbps auto-sensing ports; external antenna and internal diversity antenna for maximum range
Features 240 MHz CPU, 4 MB flash and 16MB RAM and runs the Linux operating system
Supported by open source community website with forums, blogs and downloads
Measures 6.9 x 1.1 x 4.7 inches (WxHxD); 1-year warranty |
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| Description: |
| Marketing description is not available. |
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| User Reviews (19 total): |
Page 1 of Total 1 Pages
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Works better than expected, July 26, 2008
By user (Huntington Beach, CA United States)
I have a lot of walls to go through between my base unit and remote unit. The netgear series has done a great job in delivering high speed wireless connection. Originally, I got the linksys series which just proved to be worthless for my situation.
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Decent Router, Love the speed, Setup was Quick and Easy, June 26, 2008
By user (St Paul, MN)
I have been using B for way too long now, so I was looking forward to upgrading to G. The instructions and setup were straight forward and clear so set up went very well. Although I should point out that I am an IT worker. Setup took literally less than five minutes including plugging in the hardware, setting up WEP protection, configuring... Once up and running, I have been very happy with the speed boost. My old Linksys B router was more of a bottleneck than I had thought.
My hopes and expectations were pretty limited, I just wanted a device that worked. The elegant design was just a plus. Set up in it's vertical orientation, it has a much smaller footprint than the Linksys it is replacing as well as a classier look.
Now that wireless routers have become a basic home appliance, perhaps the best feedback to give on this one is to say that it just plain works. With the ease of set up and the reliability I have seen, I would recommend this to anyone (not sure that I would have done the same with my Linksys.) Solid product.
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Success!, June 23, 2008
By user (Atlanta, GA)
My wireless networking needs are fairly simple. I wanted my wife to be able to access the internet on her laptop computer while I use the iMac. You'd think that would be a simple thing, but after a very frustrating year with a Linksys router with performance ranging from "hey, I'm actually online this time!" to wondering if the router's performance could somehow be improved through repeated contact with a hammer, I had all but given up on the idea of a reliable wireless network.
When given the opportunity to try out the slick looking Wireless G Router (WGR614L) by Netgear, I jumped at the chance. Within an hour, my wife and I were both online with a secure wireless network, and I wasn't once pushed to profanity-laced tirades or Hulk-like explosions of rage. Sure, it was a bit annoying that the installation software wasn't very Mac friendly and that I had to use manual setup, but those were minor speed bumps in the overall process. Manual setup was easy enough for me to manage without needing technical support, as was configuring the router specifics and security preferences. Perhaps the best part was how clearly all of the ports and lights were explained not only in the instructions, but on the device itself. Everything should be this simple.
My wife is happy, so I'm happy. No more impatient waiting to use the internet, no more trying to decipher the Linksys's array of lights, and hopefully no more router rage. I may still take the Linksys router out back and go all Office Space (Widescreen Edition) on it, but then again, maybe not. The Wireless G has put me in a happier state of mind after all.
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One of the best routers in the market, Opensource firmware makes it even more flexible, June 19, 2008
By user (Traveller)
This router targets people who want custom firware on their router, even if you are a general user - you can still use and configure this router with free downloadable firmware and enjoy a few benefits of having a opensource wireless router.
Scroll down for a detailed review of the general user.
Why would anyone want custom firmware?
- easy to use, customizable UI
- Raises limits of P2P softwares (bittorrent ...)
- enable to try new wireless standards and features
- and a lot more
For custom firmware, try the tomato firmware:
[...]
For the general home user - the WGR614L is pretty much the same as the WGR614G, which has been around for a while and I have had one for 3+ years and it has been working pretty well with no issues so far. Great speeds, highly reliable and good range.
The installation was very smooth, the installer CD comes with a auto-installer which will communicate with your modem and does almost all of the things by itself.
Where most users face issues is not in just setting up the wireless, but in setting up the security part of it.
To set up the security on your wireless network it is 2 part:
Part 1: On your router - connect your router to your laptop using a network cable and visit the router login page (printed on the back of the router) and go to wireless settings where you can configure a password for the wireless network - depending on the wireless encryption, the password you need to configure on your laptop is going to be either the exact key you typed in or a hexadecimal key.
For example, if you typed in your password as 'mypass', as you type in the password, you will see 4 other fields (key1 to key4) being filled up with some hexadecimal values. What you need to do is to make a note of the password you typed in 'mypass' in this case and ONLY one of the hexadecimal words ie. the value in the Key1, key2, key3 or key4.
Part 2: On your laptop, unplug the network cable and try to look for the wireless networks and select and click on 'Connect' for your wireless network - a window is going to prompt asking you to enter your password. now, try entering either the 'mypass' or any of the hexadecimal values - this should take care of connecting your laptop to your wireless network.
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The Internet you love without the wires you hate, June 19, 2008
By user (Kentucky)
The Netgear Router is my first experience with wireless internet, and it has been easier and more efficient than I imagined. From the time I opened the box until I had an "excellent" connection in another room only took about 30 minutes. The router comes with an easy to use software CD that you load onto your computer while connected to the router. After the devices synch together, you can unhook your computer and go.
I have a medium sized house and can take my laptop anywhere without losing service, including my back porch and basement. Not being tethered to the wall makes internet activity much more accessible, as I can carry my computer around with me and not interrupt my online poker games or chats.
One problem I had that may apply to others is that my internet provider automatically disables the service when there are interruptions to the system (like adding a wireless router). I had to make one phone call and describe what I was doing and they reset my service.
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Decent HW option for true Linux usage, June 19, 2008
By user (Palo Alto, CA USA)
Because of the oftentimes finicky nature of getting Windows designed routers to work properly with Linux systems, Netgear's WGR614L G-Band wireless router is a terrific (and well priced) hardware option that will get you up and running smoothly with minimal fuss.
Although this product also works with Windows (including Vista) my recommendation is to seek different options if Windows is your OS of choice. For one thing, the fact that this router operates on the G-band is somewhat limiting for current and future functionality not to mention the fact that there are much better options for Windows users at the moment.
For true Linux usage, however, the WGR614L provides terrific and capable functionality. The one nitpick that i do have has to do with this router's somewhat weak range. I've seen better but then again at this price its hard to argue against.
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easy to setup, works well with WinTel machines, June 18, 2008
By user (San Diego, CA, California)
Prior to using the Netgear WGE614L, I have been using a cheap DLink WiFi router at home with my cable internet connection and various Windows XP-based laptops/desktops. I haven't had any issues with the old DLink except every once in a while, the router would act up and requires a power-cycle. When the new Netgear router arrived, it took me all but 10 minutes to set it up and replace out the old DLink. The entire unboxing/setting up process was intuitive and straightforward, without any needs to refer to any of the included documentations. I've been running off the new Netgear router for almost three weeks now, and so far I haven't had any need to power-cycle the router. I'm a relatively heavy internet users, often have at least six devices connected and accessing the network concurrently - a desktop used primarily for file-sharing and downloading, a work laptop, my wife's laptop, a WiFi printer, and a Nintendo Wii. And occasionally, I will have additional devices hooked to the network, including a WiFi enabled PDA phone and a Nintendo DS. I'm very impressed with the fact that this router handle all these concurrent devices without any glitches. To be honest, I haven't really looked into the "Open Source" nature of this router too much, nor do I have any particular need or interest to get any customized firmware running on the router anytime soon. However, it's good knowing that the options for doing so are there. So in conclusion, I would recommend this product to folks who are shopping for a router. Sure, a lot of us may never use the fancy features like customizing the firmware or any thing of that nature, but this product is priced reasonably and easy to use to novice and experts and alike, so why not go for it even if have no immediate need for the extra capabilities?
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Great ease of use with for intermediate or advanced users of Linux Computers, but lacks N Speeds, June 13, 2008
By user
This router is great for what it's advertised for: Simple connectivity with Linux computers, with excellent hackability for expanded use. Some linux systems have trouble with some routers, and the WGR614L will help prevent that, allowing all the operating systems in your home to connect without a lot of hassle.
The setup for this router is pretty standard:
1)Install the software on your computer(s), following the onscreen instructions.
2)Connect the router to your computer via the included ethernet cable or via wireless
3)Connect your dsl or cable modem to the router
4)Do any final tweaking, cross your fingers, and hope to be connected!
I didn't experience any significant issues with the setup, but I am also a very advanced user. If you are a newbie or a casual "point and click" computer user, you may want to think twice. While this router is fairly easy to use out of the box, no setup is guaranteed to be without hassle. If you're using Linux, you probably have at least intermediate computer knowledge, but if you're not comfortable accessing the software interface for the router, you may want to rethink this purchase, or find someone to set it up for you.
Additionally, this should be made more clear: If you're not using linux, you don't need this router. There are better routers out there if you just use Macs or PCs. If you have N capability on your computers or intend to in the future, you should definitely check out a more future-proof "N" router.
Overall I would recommend this router if you are an experienced Linux user who has had issues with other routers and doesn't need the latest "N" speeds. If you don't use Linux, don't know much about computers, or have to have the latest and best, look elsewhere.
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Easy to install, works well, June 1, 2008
By user (Yorktown, NY)
I popped the CD into my PC and followed the instructions. It took a while, perhaps 1/2 hour to complete the installation, but in the end it did work. The only problem was indicating the type of wireless card in my PC. I guessed wrong the first time, but got it right the second time. Better software might have found the answer for itself.
The router works well. I have a Thinkpad T41p running Windows XP and am using the router with a cable modem. The wireless signal is "excellent" everywhere inside my house, and even "good" on my outside porch. The signal goes to "poor" about 75 feet down my driveway. The router has a 12 watt power supply, so does not use a lot of energy. I am happy with the system. This review is being written on the couch with the TP and two cats sitting on my lap. The cats appreciate the wireless communication mode.
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"g" rated, May 29, 2008
By user (State College, Pa.)
This wireless -g router appears to be adequate for basic wireless connectivity. If the planned installation is limited to less demanding transmissions in a modest broadcast range, the WGR614L appears to deliver. I got this unit since I have some interest in exploring Linux but it was immediately evident I would have to make some unpalatable major compromises in order to use it in my present setup. Since I already operate under `N' standards, I had hoped to use this unit as a repeater for a specific laptop with Linux operating system, however, that would require a reduction in overall network security to WEP and I am not willing to make that adjustment since there are a number of other wireless installations visible to me in my local area. While I do not broadcast my SSID now, I do not believe reverting to a lesser security standard is worth it. As a standalone, it will support WPA2 encryption and WPS connectivity. Up to four devices and be connected via Ethernet.
It should be noted the model designation for the unit I received is somewhat confusing. The box is labeled as WGR614l which apparently is version 9 of a Netgear router that has been available for a few years. This model is marketed as "Open Source," meaning the code is not proprietary as is normally the case and the firmware is customizable by the user if he or she is so inclined and capable. Installation is reasonably straightforward for anyone familiar with creation of a wireless network although a first-timer might have some configuration issues and encounter questions that are not clearly addressed in the documentation or clearly delineated during the wizard setup procedure. Presently, my networked computers operate under Vista Ultimate, XPPro, and XPhome. I did not incur any connectivity issues with any CPU, and each has an "g" adapter from different manufacturers.
Two difficulties I encountered were the inability to access the Netgear RND2150 ReadyNAS Duo 500 GB Desktop Network Attached Storage connected to a Netgear access point,NETGEAR HD/Gaming 5 GHz Wireless-N Networking Kit (WNHDEB111). It was not visible anywhere on the network and I could not connect via the webpage, so streaming of my music files was not possible. According to the documentation, streaming video is not a recommended activity. Additionally, this unit operates within the 2.4GHz range so interference from other devices is a distinct possibility. I did not attempt to test since my videos are also stored on the NAS and streaming from another networked computer is no longer a consideration for me. Speed is a major factor with video transmission and this router is rated to 54Mbps only.
The range of this unit is underwhelming as independently, I could not maintain a signal from more than 50 feet away although with utilization of the bridge/access points, I could connect from anywhere in the house.
My overall impression is this router is exactly what it is touted to be and would serve admirably so long as the user stays within the design focus parameters. While it is relatively economical, routers under "N" standards with greater functionality may be a better direction to go.
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Well Performing Device & Installation is a Snap, May 23, 2008
By user (Tucson, AZ USA)
What does the "Open Source" in the name mean? Do you need to be a "techie"? Nope. It means the firmware is "open source" instead of proprietary code normally used in devices like this. There is no perceivable difference from a normal user's point of view. If you ARE a techie, it could open a lot of doors for customization.
Assuming you have just a bit of experience, installation is a snap. The manufacturer recommends first hooking it up via a cable to a standard Ethernet port in order to configure it then go wireless. I didn't with no problems (I went wireless from the get go). The only time for the cable is if you upgrade the firmware. This is standard on all routers I have ever used. If you are a bit unfamiliar with this type of device, they include very simple-to-use software to both install and configure. The included CD also has the user manual on it.
Configuration:
I have to say that the web interface is the nicest I have seen. The help for each page is printed right on the page next to the options and is very intuitive. The only thing I felt was out of the ordinary was the rather disjointed approach to filtering. All of the filtering was done on one page except access (I.E, MAC filters) is on another.
Performance:
Performance is also good. Moving a 50mb file was about 10% faster than on a similar D-Link device I own. The antenna is excellent. I was surprised at how good the signal strength was. I own two other routers and neither has the same reception quality.
Security:
Like every other device that I have worked with it, it's "open" (read NOT secure) out of the box. It can't be accessed from the Internet but every Tom, Dick and Harry within wireless range can access it, can attempt to access other computers using it and can intercept traffic. It has the usual suite of encryption and access security features. Be sure to take time to both learn about them and set them up.
Summary:
I give this device a 4 stars. For normal support you have Netgears website. For the techies, go to http://www.myopenrouter.com where you can download both updates and the source code (and the tools to compile them with). If you're up to it, you can make your own custom firmware. Try doing that with any other competing product.
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A router as easy or as complex as you want it to be., May 22, 2008
By user (MickeyJoe.com)
A great router that lets you set up a wireless network in your home and share a single internet connection with everyone in your house or office at speeds up to 54 Mbps. Now even Grandma can set up a wireless network. I had it up and running in a few minutes. Just plug the included Ethernet cable from your internet connection into the router and insert the included CD into any computer on the network, which shows step-by-step instructions. It uses a website style interface for configuration, and will automatically do the initial setup by getting your DNS settings and determining your IP address. The firmware is also upgradeable via the web interface so you will always be up-to-date. Supporting the 802.11g standard, this router offers wireless data speeds of up to 54 Mbps, making it possible to share a broadband internet connection, stream music without hiccups, watch videos with less load time, and videoconference without problems. Downloading files is up to five times faster than it was with 802.11b. There are also four 10/100 Mbps RJ-45 Ethernet ports in the back for connecting computers to the network via a faster, wired connection. Many security options to ensure your data is private. Double firewall protection keeps your network shielded from outside attacks. Both 40/64-bit, 128-bit, and 152-bit (802.11g only) WEP encryption is available, as well as WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access). You can also use MAC address authentication to allow only authorized users onto the network.
It's priced lower than it's competition, the Linksys WRT54GL and yet more powerful hardware for Open source firmwares. Linux Open Source Compatible hardware, WPS PIN Support and easy Secure Wireless Configuration, Secure WPA2 standards, Stable and reliable performance, a helpful open source community at www.myopenrouter.com and DD-WRT and Tomato firmware compatible. It's as complex as you would like it to be, or ready to use out of the box.
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Easy to Set Up and Works Great, May 22, 2008
By user
When it comes to technology, I'm pretty useless: I like my computer, the Internet and email, but don't ask me to set anything up. So I was a little freaked out when I had to set this up while my husband was away on business, but it was surprisingly easy. You plug the cable, inset a CD, and follow the instructions (which, unlike many instructions for technical issues, were clear and easy to follow).
We've been using the wireless connection for a few days, and the signal is strong. Thank you, Neargear! This product is fabulous.
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Netgear 614L Open Source Router - Does The Job, Easy as Pie, May 22, 2008
By user (NY, NJ, CT USA)
The Netgear WGR614L Open Source Wireless-G Router (Compatible with Linux) has worked just as advertised for me. I have been using a linksys WRT54G for a while. I noticed that some of my linux computers had problems connecting after logging on to other Wireless Access Points. I suspect it's an issue with bootp or dhcp standard variances between the platforms. Whatever the reason, this guy seems to be working fine right out of the box with all my linux workstations.
It's been a while since I had to buy one of these, so I was also pleasantly surprised by how affordable it was. I haven't fully checked out all the forums available for the product, but it's nice to know I can get extra stuff since this is open source.
The only real concern for me was that the Wireless N versions (including the dual band) are not that much more expensive in absolute terms. If you have a unit with wirelss N in it you will probably want to go that direction.
Still, if you have multiple OSs on your home network, this guy is well worth a look.
Enjoy.
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If You've Got a Billy Next Door, the Netgear WGR614L Router Might Just be for You, May 21, 2008
By user (the Pacific Northwest)
Okay, I got my router, what next? Open the box, of course. Found a CD inside. Put it in my iMac, figured out to click on index.htm all by myself, maybe the little Safari icon helped a bit. Was confronted with PDF page on my screen, clicked on English from all the language choices, page changed, gave me four more choices, clicked on Setup Manual.
I was good to go with the first couple topics, Getting to Know Your Wireless Router, Unpacking Your New Router, the front and back panel etc, but as soon as I got to the next topic after unpacking the thing, I was lost. The topic was called, "What You Need Before You Begin". I needed to know my host and domain names, my internet login name and password (frequently an e-mail address and password), Domain Name Server (DNS) addresses, Fixed or static IP address. I'm a Mac person, so of course I didn't know that stuff. But no worries, the directions told me I could call my ISP and they would provide it.
No, no, no. Did I say I was a Mac person. I don't know an ISP from a VFW and I don't want to. I just want things to work when I plug them in. So I went to Netgear's website, called their support number and after having to go through a bunch of recordings got connected to a guy in a foreign country who I barely understood. I certainly didn't understand him well enough to follow any directions, so I let him ramble for a bit, told him I got it when I didn't. He asked me to wait for a case number. I did and after he hung up and went next door and got Billy. He's sixteen and there is nothing about computers he does not know.
He got me set up and now everything works fine, not any better than my Airport did, which I was able to set up all by myself, but fine. This is a good product if you aren't a silly woman like me who just wants things to work. If you've got a Billy next door, then this might just be the product for you. If you don't, well.
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Trying To Be Objective, May 15, 2008
By user (San Francisco, CA.)
If you know nothing about wireless routers, I have a lot to tell you. I bought a condo a few years back and there was NO phone jack in the second bedroom/office (stupid, huh?). Because the floor was concrete and I shared the ceiling with a neighbor, no electrician would come out to install a phone jack or run a line into the room through the walls. So I bought a router. It was a LINKSYS, but it only lasted a year. So I bought this Netgear on some advice. The manual setup is easy. Open your desktop and install the card/antennae into any slot and close up the desktop. Find a phone jack in another room that is closest to your desktop (remember to avoid as many obstacles as possible, like walls and especially washer/dryers or any metal objects). Then plug your phone cord into the router. My closest connection was in the kitchen with one wall between the router and desktop antennae.
That was easy, but I had a lot of trouble setting up the software and spent hours on the phone with support from the Philippines (Have you dealt with support from the Philippines or India???). Then I had to talk to my phone company to get the codes correct (POP, STMP, etc.). It was a real headache. When it was finally working, the connectivity would vary and sometimes it was slow. I finally trashed it and ripped up the rug and now run my phone line under the carpet on the concrete along the walls. It's a direct connection.
If you are one of the lucky ones who can figure things out, this system is great for one reason, in that it can connect up to four separate computers, but I found with only one computer it was not worth the hassle. As I have mentioned in other reviews, although I enjoy electronics, I am not that technologically savvy. But that was just MY experience.
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Not what it appears to be., May 10, 2008
By user
The product is labeled as Model: WGR614L-100NAS, but the box contains Model: WGR614v9 which is NOT the WGR614L. It is the latest version of the Model: WGR614NA.
Don't know what Netgear is trying to do by mislabeling the product.
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Great Router for Linux Noobies, March 4, 2008
By user (LinuxUNH)
This router was quick and easy to set up. All I did was 1.Turn off the computer, and the cable modem (the router is not plugged in yet). 2.Connect the modem to the router and the router to the computer. 3.Turn on the modem, then plug in the router, then turn on the computer. When I opened Fire Fox, I had Internet Connection!!
Note: If your internet is working like mine did, you do not need to set up your internet connection on www.routerlogin.net. You still need to go there to set up your security.
The only thing I did not like was that there was no mention of Linux anywhere. The CD makes it sound like you have to set things up manually if you don't have Windows. It would have been nice if Netgear at least gave a little welcome guide for Linux users.
Now I have the challenge of finding a friendly WIFI USB adapter.
I recommend this to any noobie for their home.
Linux User #466233
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