Conclusions
I mentioned
that the unit features a switch. What does a switch do? In a normal network
traffic is moved across every computer in the network until that data finds
the right computer. This causes a tremendous amount of unnecesary traffic
as well as increasing the likelihood of lost data. A switch will send data
only to the computer it is meant for. Depending on the size of the network
this can really make for a big boost in performance due to the freed up
congestion. I highly recommend a switch for any network that is approaching
four computers. That will cover almost every small office network that I
can think of.
If you
are going to install a switched hub why not include the firewall of the
BroadGuard? None
of us wants to be the victim of a deliberate attack, but imagine what could
happen if some of your data was stolen? A lot of people have social security
numbers and credit card information on their computers so it shouldn't surprise
someone that a hacker would try to access their data.
I've
discussed the other two routers that I reviewed previously. Both share my
editor's choice award. The SOHOware BroadGuard also allows up to 253 users,
has a four-port 10/100 switch, and is packed with a firewall to protect
you from prying hackers. Throw
in the great design and the outstanding manual and you'll see why I was
so happy to work with this router. It is priced within $10 of the Netgear
router.
So there
you have it. The first ever three-way tie for the editor's choice award.
Victor
Oshiro 21 February, 2001
