[plug] ADSL: Hardware Gateways vs Linux

[Russ Powers]

On Mon, 5 Jul 2004 02:37 pm, Chris Caston wrote:
<snip>
> I look forward to the day when someone releases a Linux powered adsl
> modem.
>

Like this?

http://www.linksys.com/Products/product.asp?grid=33&scid=35&prid=601
http://www.portless.net/ewrt/

> > I could go with a simple
> > ADSL Modem, whack a second net card in the Linux server (current dial-up
> > server - really needs some maintenance done on config tho), or I could go
> > with one of the ones with 4-port, and demote my Linux server to a
> > file/web server.
>
> You could.
>
> > The other consideration is whether to take the opportunity to take the
> > plunge into Wireless, and get an ADSL Modem which also doubles as a
> > Wireless Access Point.
>
> Be careful with these. I've been having serious problems with the
> wireless component of the Billion 7402w. It may be better to get a
> separate access point. When the whole product is the wireless access
> point they are going to put more effort into making it good than if the
> wireless is just a "feature" of an adsl modem.
>
> > The main concern is if the range will stretch from the study at one
> > end of the house, through multiple walls to the other end of the house.
> > How's the range on these sort of SOHO products?
>
> Much less when going through walls. You may need a repeater or even just
> run some cable. It's not that hard. In fact it's far easier to install
> sockets than it is to crimp cable.
>
> > Lastly - what are the Netcomm's like which Westnet offer? (See above
> > link). The PDF brochures all read rather well, but then, not having
> > networking as a specialty field, a lot of the acronyms go over my head.
> > ^_^ (Although the spec sheet for the Netcomm 5580W wireless one reads a
> > lot like a Linux feature-set. Anyone know if it's really an embedded
> > linux device?)
>
> Not sure about Netcomms but try the LINKSYS WRT54G, 802.11G, 11/54Mbps
> Wireless-G Router. It runs Linux and you can use it to run a Linux of
> your choice providing it has a small footprint.
>
> > Any other gotcha's or advice on hardware and configuration?
>
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-- 
Regards,
Russ