The AirPlus DI-614+ combines the latest advancements in 802.11b chip technology and robust firewall security features. The DI-614+ is ideal for those creating their first wireless network, as well as for more advanced users looking for additional management settings and policy-based content filtering. Filters can be set based on MAC address, IP address, URL, and domain name.
A simple yet intelligent Web-based setup wizard makes the DI-614+ easy for any user to quickly and securely connect computers to share a high-speed Internet connection, files, resources, games, or just communicate. An integrated four-port switch allows direct connection for up to four computers. Several wireless clients can also securely connect to the network using 64-, 128-, or 256-bit encryption.
Additional advanced features include pass-through of multiple concurrent IPSec and PPTP VPN sessions for telecommuters or for anyone who needs to transmit sensitive information more securely.
The D-Link AirPlus DI-614+ is the ideal networking solution for small offices, home offices, schools, dorm rooms, coffee shops, and other small businesses that cater to the public.
1 Better than the regular ones
I too, have the older model that has the dual antenna. Compare to our old trusty Apple wireless airport router, it does have longer range and stronger strength. Real world tested with both mac and pc.
Set up is easy following the instruction provided. And the unit is reliable. Good deal. Unfortunately, I have no idea how the newer single antenna model performs.
2 Older model with two antennae works great
The DI-614+ has two different chipsets. The older models, like I have, can be recognized because they have two antennae, while the newer ones have a single antenna. The only problem I have with mine is that my 2.4 GHz wireless telephone interferes with it and so using the phone can cause the wireless signal to go out. But this is a problem for almost all wireless routers. Otherwise, any problem that I've thought I had with the 614+ ended up being a problem with some other part of the hardware/software puzzle that is home networking. I also own a Linksys WRT54G and it has worked flawlessly too. Buy whichever one is cheaper. You'll be fine.
3 Garbage
This product works for a couple months and you "think" its the best thing since sliced bread... HOWEVER as the months go on, it starts having problems... such as rebooting itself at random times disconnecting you from the internet, and not allowing you to view certain web sites. Technical support is very slow and couldn't resolve my problem. After several WEEKS they issued an RMA and sent me a refurbished model with the same problems. So I wouldn't recommend this product, or any D-Link product if you want something that's going to last and work for more than a year.
4 Trouble, trouble, trouble.
I read alot of the reviews here, and half of them say they plug it in, forget about it, and love it. The other half say they have difficulties with it in one form or another. I know, though, for a fact, that trying to fix problems you MAY have is a pain in the ass. D-Link's tech support has solutions to offer you, but as I and half the internet community can attest, they very often don't work.
There is also the fact that OLDER versions of their firmware are more stable than newer versions. One of the things I've seen very rarely on their own webpage, and constantly from other users on the internet, is that -downgrading- your firmware is the solution to many problems.
My reccomendation, if you must buy this router, it so download Trendware's firmware - You can make the DL 614+ accept the foreign firmware(Google it, if you must ask), and Trendware's actually WORKS. The 614+'s firmware is worthless, and even their tech support don't know how to make it work.
Worse yet, their tech support don't seem to know what they don't know.
5 Great 22mbps Wireless AP Router
I am a Network Analyst and have used Linksys and Netgear for clients and friends. But personally I use D-Link. Price wise they are the lowest compared to the aforementioned companies. With the AirPlus and great wireless conditions (less obstructions) you will get greater speeds up to 22mbps. I recommend this product to all people who wish to go to wireless. I got this model on Rev. A. when it had two antennas.
I had updated to the firmware v2.18 (no need to get the newer version since I don't have any issues). I think since I have had this product, the ONLY time I had to restart it was during its initial configuration and once after the firmware update. Honestly one of the BEST wireless routers AP around for the price. C|net's favorite pick too. Also, if you have many obstacles or need to extend or add an Access Point GET the DWL-800AP+!!! Simple!!! FAST!!! and Versatile.
Sticking with D-Link, I just purchased a DP-300U Print Server, WOW what another great D-Link item.
I read the previous post of the Network fella that had a hard time, sorry to hear, but in your case it might not have been your Dlink.
6 Nothing But Trouble
Let me start by saying that I work as a system and network administrator, so I know what I'm doing when it comes to this stuff. I have successfully set up many wireless networks at employees' homes, usually using Netgear products.
I went with the D-Link this time because I needed extra range and wanted to use their DWL-800AP+ Range Extender. This part worked as advertised, and increased the range by at least 50%. I decided to use the 802.11b (rather than g) product because it seems I read about fewer problems with b products.
However. the DI-614+ has been nothing but trouble. It works...for a while. Then the wireless hosts suddenly lose connectivity even though they still show strong signal strength. Also, when the laptops (both XP and OS X) woke from sleep, half the time they wouldn't see the network for a while. I called D-Link technical support several times and various techs had be try changing various settings, but we could never get it working reliably for more than an hour. This was using firmware release 3.35.
The kicker came, though, when I turned on Static DHCP. Once this was enabled, the router started rebooting every minute or so. I called back and they had me do a full reset of the router and it was back to its kind of working state. But once I re-enabled Static DHCP (I need this so that I always know the IP addresses of various hosts so I can reach them when performing my own tech support) the constant rebooting began again.
The tech suggested I downgrade to 3.20CM, but I saw in the notes that Dynamic DNS is broken in that release, and that's another feature I need. I tried 3.28 and it had the same trouble with Static DHCP.
After messing with this for almost a week, I'm going to run out tomorrow and buy my old reliable Netgear MR814v2 and an antenna.
7 Turn it on and forget about it!
Bought this a while back and have been very satisfied (easy to do after power cycling my horrible Linksys 3 times a day for months!). I have not had to power cycle this ONCE since I bought it -- it just keeps chugging along. I haven't pushed the signal strength much (seems to be a common complaint). My one issue is a few times a day the signal seems to drop from 11 MBps to 1 MBps, and the 1 MBps signal generally does not communicate with my laptop well - so I end up going to the little signal app on the toolbar (Prism), click "Rescan" and everything is up and running just fine again. This takes all of 4 seconds, so it's not been an issue. I'm using a built-in wi-fi on my laptop, so it could be a communication issue with that. Also, it seems to talk with the my DSL modem just fine.
8 Worst tech support ever
By the time Tier 1 and Tier 2 tech support were done we had more problems than we started with. They fixed nothing and broke new things. Every time we called back they had lost the notes and had no record of the case numbers they'd given us, so we had to start all over. Tier 2 was even worse than Tier 1 -- gave up, made a few vague suggestions with no real direction and pushed us off the phone because he didn't know what to do next. He left us with our entire network down.
9 If only it all worked as advertised!
I bought the DI614+ and DWL650+ from Amazon in December 03. I have to say that the router is packd full of features. The features that I used in particular were the 256 bit encryption and the MAC filtering on the wireless access, both of which are generally easy to setup and ensure that drive-by cyber squatters cannot get onto the network. The basics worked fine and the web browser setup is a good idea, BUT: 1. the help did not correspond to the on-screen options; 2. I never got the 22Mbps that I should have, it peaked at 12Mbps even when the laptop was 5 feet from the router and both were properly configured. Dlink support was useless in 4 attempts to achieve that performance. Once I started going through walls, the bandwidth dropped way off (1-4Mbps). I sold the set before completing what may have been a more promising exchange with yet another support fellow (Jerry H.). 3. Reconfiguring the router requires the user to figure out the idiosyncracies of the router software (i.e. how to 'kick it around' via a sequence of config steps) to effectively change the setup. Apparently the product mangement tried to stuff it full of features but then did not commit to sufficient QA resources to ensure that config changes would actually work correctly. 4. There is no excuse for documentation that does not match up with what one sees on the config screen, particularly the on-line help. What documentation there is is minimalist and doesn't really describe what the various features do. Overall I am less than excited about D-Link and that firm now accompanies SMC as 'last resort' or 'so cheap I can't pass up the deal' places to do business.
10 Good Router, wireless signal not strong enough
I bought this unit a couple of days ago. I used Linksys BEFW11S4 (V2) for about 17 months before it's dead. The BEFW11S4 would be a 5 star if it was not dead.
The setup of DL-614+ is easy. It took me no time at all. I just pluged it and it worked fine. The only problem I had is the wireless signal is not good for some wireless card. I have a netgear and a SMC card. I set up the unit on the west side of the second floor and I put a dell laptop with the netgear on the east side of the first floor of the house. The singal and link are only about 60%. But it worked fine with the SMC card. The SMC card is with a strong antenna built-in. So both signal and link are good. I pluged the SMC card in the dell and both are above 95%. I even moved the dell to the basement, and the signal and link are above 90% most of the time. Linksys BEFW11S4 has stronger singals than DL-614+. With the same condition, I had no problem at all using the Netgear card with BEFW11S4.
Overall, I am pleased with the unit for the price.
11 BETTER THAN THE LINKSYS but not without fault
It was fussy out of the box but with a download of the firmware from their website I had it going quick and without serious issue since. I tried a similar product by LINKSYS prior to buying this box and had lots of problems with permanently losing the wireless connection with my laptop. The only issue I have is the link quality is either 100% and working, or drops to a value of 80-99% and the link stops for a few seconds, (BUT ALWAYS COMES RIGHT BACK). The quality # can be 80 or 90% and the link is fussy. I think the weighting of the link quality is certainly different because the LINKSYS would work down into the 20-30% range. I am a broadcast engineer with some networking experience and I did not give up, but many people might be likely to throw in the towel.
12 (un)plug & play!
I liked my DI-614+, especially with a DWL-650+ PCMCIA card for my laptop at the time. I *literally* plugged it in the wall, plugged my DSL modem into the WAN port on the router, configured my desktop to use DHCP and plugged it into one of the four LAN ports, and I was online. Total time spent: less than one minute.
The only SERIOUSLY major problem I have with the DI-614+ (rev A), is that if I'm connected to remove systems for FTP or SSH (I do web development) and leave my computer idle for a few minutes, the router kills the connection. I've logged almost a dozen calls to D-Link and tried every version of their software in an attempt to fix this but nothing has helped. That, however, was the ONLY problem I ever had with it. I eventually switched to a DI-714P which puts my printer on the LAN but I lose the 2X/4X data rates...
Otherwise, the 614+ is a GREAT router.
13 Don't waste your time
Configured easy, worked with dwl800ap+ flawlessly... for about 20 minutes. M2 light came on, game over, back to the store. Read the reviews people.. these units are junk. Reinstalling Linksys with hi-gain antennae.
14 I've had mine over a year and it works fine
I get good reception and speeds through several walls, about 75 ft away is where I usually use it. There is a whole bedroom in between and I even have photos in front of the router in order to hide it as I do not consider most electronics as decorative. I can sit on my balcony as well and always have at least "good" level and 22Mbps. I occasionally get interference but this is better since I configured the security on it, which tech support helped me through step by step. I think my wireless phone and wireless phone jack all could interfere and I live in an apartment and pick up other peoples wireless systems so this helped. Also with tech support, it's the luck of the draw. If you call back you eventually get someone who knows what's up. I find their support better than my notebook or ISP or antivirus or 4in1's tech and they are all big names. If you do change from wireless to hardwired you may need to reset the router. Very easily done by replugging power to modem then the router after waiting several minutes or by using a paperclip in the reset hole per instructions. The manual is often vague for other issues ie setting up the firewall and filters etc but again I was able to get tech support at all times with no worse waits than most. As with all electronics companies supposed tech support I find you just have to try back until you find someone who knows your product.
15 Great for apartments
I use this in my one bedroom, 750 square foot apartment and have over 90% signal strength no matter where I am. I keep it in the hall closet, in the middle of my unit, with the cable modem. The range is great. With this router in my unit on the third floor I can sit outside my building in the common area and still get reception of 60%. The reception is also great with my PDA that has built in wireless.
I did notice the dowload rate does slow compared to a direct connection to the cable modem. However, you will ony see this when downloading large files and not with your daily web surfing or emailing.
16 Great product and easy to go
I bought Linksys wireless-G router first. After 2 days, the setup was still not finished and couldn't get on the internet, especially with the wireless one.I hope I had bought this product first. I plug it in and turned the power on, then It WORKS!! so simple and the signal is so strong. Now I can use my laptop everywhere in my house by a wirelss network card. What a great product compared to the even more Linksys junk!!!!
17 Pure garbage
I'm a pretty smart guy. I normally have no problems setting hardware like this up. The setup for the D-Link wireless LAN is deceptively simple. I had NO problem hooking up the router to my DSL modem and computer via ethernet. As a cabled router, the 614+ is a fine machine.
Unfortunately, the moment I tried adding a wireless connection, the router began an endless routine of rebooting itself, spending more time trying to connect to my ISP than it did staying connected. BTW, the wireless card on the PC in question was also a D-Link, the one recommended for use with this router!
D-Link's web support was NO HELP. I tried everything suggested on their site (updating firmware, disabling UPnP, installing the latest drivers for the wireless NIC card, disabling SSDP, etc.), but in the end, the moment the wireless PC tried to connect to the router, it would go haywire and endlessly reboot.
I checked around on various forums and, surprise surprise, there are literally HUNDREDS of people having this very same problem with SEVERAL D-Link wireless models! And NONE of these people seem to be finding workable solutions.
What really burns me is that I got a no-name router from Fry's today (Airlink Plus) that works FLAWLESSLY, is 802.11G (not B), and is the same price as the D-Link with NO ERRORS. It's harder to set up, but at the end of the day it works, and isn't that what really matters? The D-Link stuff goes back to Amazon today.
18 Good Router, HORRIBLE TECH SUPPORT
With my wireless network up and running for about a week I can say that this router is performing well, all its advertised features work and using a 22Mbps D-link wireless card I can actually transfer data at 22Mbps. At such a great price, if you are fine with 802.11b, which is faster than you need for surfing the net etc, buy it.
One warning though: The dial up tech support is the worst I have ever encountered. After 2 hours on the phone they could not get me hooked up through my Verizon DSL. Although I am not computer/tech savy, I spent 10 minutes reading about the router on the webside and fixed the problem on my own (make sure other PPPoe programs are off). Hope if works right off the bat for you, otherwise the tech guys will have you resetting your modem and router untill you give up on them.
19 Great buy and a solid product
Like most other people have written, setting up a wireless network can be a challenge. For the most part, setting up my network with this router was pretty simple. I'm using both wired and wireless computers to hookup to my DSL connection and everything is working great. For someone who doesn't need a whole lot of detailed settings (nor would know what to do with them), this router is great. I set it up once, it worked and now I have a very consistent connection all the time using both the wired and wireless pcs.
Also, for the price, it certainly can't be beat. Overall, I found this router to be fairly simple to use while performing very strongly on a consistent basis. If you're wavering between a few different wireless models, get this one!
20 Rumor cleared by awesome quality
I read lots of negative, blaming feedbacks before I decided to take it. It turned out, however, to be a surprise: easy to set up in a few minutes, solid stable connection and many fancy functions built in. This machine just works great for me and I would say that I am qualified to operate it.
21 No problem with various connection adapters, VPN from day 1
The router is very easy to install and configure. I originally had a concern that VPN might not work. It's to my relief that this router works like a charm with VPN connections. Also the firmware seems to be robust enough that I haven't had a need to reboot the router for a couple of months now. I wouldn't say that on some other routers, wired or wireless. I have wireless notebook, iPaq with WiFi capability, and PC with wireless adapter in my house. They all connect via this router without any problems.
22 Excellent Range between floors
With this wireless router I can be anywhere in my home and get Internet with my wireless laptop. I also have a wireless bridge connected to a switch downstairs and it connects my game consoles to the LAN/Internet.
security is awesome because it is 256-bit WEP. yes I know 128-bit WEP is crackable, but 256 will definitely take longer and thus people wont bother.
Overall this router has been great to me and any problems/quirks I had were fixed with a firmware upgrade from D-Link.
23 What an Excellent Value
This router doesn't cost a lot and performs like the best. Range is awesome and I get a strong signal strength from anywhere in my home. I had zero problems with the setup and my friends come over and their laptops work just fine with the built in wireless. Easy as 1-2-3.
24 Solid Router
I've had this for quite some time now and the firmware released by D-link only make it better each time I upgrade. The range is great since I can access my wireless internet camera from any room in my home and when I am on my laptop I have zero dead zones in the house.
25 D-LINK AIRPLUS DI-614+WIRELESS ROUTER
This was my first try at networking and wireless. I bought this unit because of low cost and good PC Mag reviews. So far after a few weeks it seems a good choice. I had it working with my cable modem in basicly 15 minutes after taking it out of the box! It worked with one computer and a LAN cable with basicly no set up. Two of my 3 computers were networked using D-link 650+ card adapters in an hour or so. In spite of some comments I have read on the net, the unit does not run hot and seems stable. The security features are good. D-Link has told me a firmware upgrade adding WPA is planned. I have not set them all up yet but have set up the 256 bit code and MAC filters for my simple net. The setup software is basic but works fine. The install guide is too brief if you are using Windows 98 but is ok for Win Xp.
I did have to call D-Link support to get my 120+ PCI adapter going as I had made an error but they were polite and seemed knowledgeable. I found it was best to call them very early in the morning (7 AM NY time-4 AM in CA!) to get through. The speed between computers seems to be about 6-7 MB/sec with encrpytion on . All in all these seem like solid, economical products. Would be 5 stars if the Quick install guide was a little better for WiN 98SE. I was able to link 3 computers together and to the cable modem/broadband for about $140 after the rebates. I have since added a Samsung 2152W Wifi printer to my system and it is so handy. Give it a try, beats running wires through all the walls! And it is so good to get rid of dial up and phone lines. Jim D. in NY. Oh, and remember to turn off Norton Internet security when you are first setting things up as it will tend to keep you from "opening" the remote computers initially even though you will see them connected on the wireless LAN utility provided by D-Link.
26 Inexpensive and Works Wonders
With all the awesome features this Cable/DSL router has it makes you wonder how they offer it at such a low price. Parental controls, top notch 256-bit WEP, and MAC filtering will keep you secure and others out very well.
The range with this router is adequate to say the least. I can stay online from anywhere in the house on my laptop with wireless adapter. Even with 256-bit WEP on my speeds and range is not effected.
Overall this router is great and well worth the small price tag.
I recommend this to home users and even if you've never done this before it is easy enough with all the intructions and installation wizards.
27 Great Solid Router - with Fast 11b Speeds!
I have this router with built in access point for about 5 months now. I've read other peoples problems and I am glad I don't see any of their problems. I did get drops a lot for the first couple weeks, but learned I just needed to change channels and everything was fine.
Now I like logging into this router and just check the stats. A whole lot of packets sent and recieved is kind of neat to see. The speed of this and my USB adapter for my laptop is great. I notice no difference in web browsing or playing games online.
I am happy with it and would be willing to bet anyone else who buys one for home use will be happy with it as well.
28 Worked for awhile - then simply stopped
First one I bought was defective - so had to return it and get a new one. Then the second one worked for about a month when it simply stopped. (We hadn't installed anything new or done anything different.) Called customer service, repeatedly, and they simply had me walk through the same steps (reset the router, ping the router) without any resolution. Any attempt at escalating the problem resulted in perma-hold on their customer service line. absolutely awful customer service - anything that falls out of their scripted answers will not get resolved. Am buying a Linksys now.
29 works for a few minutes
This router works fine until you use it for a few minutes...then it reverts to 1 or 2 MBPS, and you can't even use that, rendering the connection useless. This is while used with a dlink wireless card. Customer service claims that atmospheric conditions caused such slow speeds at a distance of 5 feet from the router with a clear line of site...they are a joke.
30 Actually more like 4 1/2 stars.
The DI-614+ (rev B and earlier) consistently outperforms more expensive models from netgear and linksys in distance testing (check PCMAG and PCWorld for starters). While I have no hard data of my own to support these tests, I have found this router to outperform my 2.4GHz phone (which otherwise isn't a terrible test for range.)
Of course improving antenna preformance isn't a bad idea either and amoung many options for doing so you might consider http://osiris.urbanna.net/antenna_designs/projects/Ez-10/.
The 614+ gets its fair share of bad consumer reviews, but you have to take these with a grain of salt --- setting up a wireless network is not like hooking up a new keyboard.
The 614+ does not have as many configuration settings as some other routers, but the available settings are adequate for most users. I have set mine up to allow only the MAC's I enter, to NOT broadcast its SSID (under Advanced -- Performance) and to use 128 WEP. (I also run firewalls on all my machines.) Turning off and on each of these settings without losing specific parameters is quick and easy.
It is true that the 614+ does not generally allow you to have different settings for wireless versus hardwired computers or to enter a phrase to generate keys (a very nice feature). It is also true that the interface is a little weak. Still for the price (like $30 after rebate here recently), it is a steal.
If you need a router with better distance performance than the 614+, I suggest that you ignore the standard netgear and linksys offerings and move up to a 200mW unit (like one of the Senao offerings). Of course then you should get comparable adapters (like the SMC High Power PC Card --- which is a good bet in any case).
Here is some last advice: assign a unique SSID and set up the net without any security. Once you have everything working then you can add in security features... oh, and check the channel --- different vendors default to different channels.
31 For Everyone!
Everyone should have a broadband connection in their home by now. So to share it all wirelessly, wired, or both, get this router. This is a reliable and inexpensive router that will work anywhere for as long as you like. Configuration is simple with the setup wizard, security is more than enough, plus it looks cool on the desk.
32 Cheap but Basically OK. Overclaimed features
1) Forget about 22 Mbps. I purchased 2 AirPlus 650+ PCMCIA NICs and a 614+ wireless router. Works fine at 11MBPS but even at 1 foot from the router will not achieve 22 Mbps.
2) Interference with Cable TV, channels below 21 when the router is placed within 20 FEET of cable modem.. Limits flexability when configuring home network. Some channels are very bad no matter what router settings.
3) Poor Technical support. Several EMAILs sent. Response within 24 hours. However, 75% of replies have no clue of the issue or how to resolve it. (Are they paid by number of replies?)
4) Regurarly drops Nortel VPN connections. (Tech support clueless)
-- This router provides basic connectivity, but leaves much to be desired. Will try another.
33 Excellent value for the price
I've been using it for about a week now and it works very well. I was concerned about the other reviewers that complained about range but it works fine in my house.
It replaces my BEFSR41.
The setup pages are a little cryptic but I'll get used to it.
Would have liked to see the lease time on the DHCP address of the WAN side but it's not available.
Had problems connecting an AirPort card on a Macintosh to but I'm not sure it's not a problem with the Mac.
34 Excellent Router
I use Windows ICS to share the USB based ADSL connection at our home. Current hardware items include; DI-614+, DFE-530TX+ and a DWL-520+. The 614+ and 520+ are 50-60 feet apart with ~7 walls (some low angles) and the 520+ shows 57-60% signal strength with 100% quality and a 22Mbps connection. The remote PC's download rate is 150+KBs which equals the main PC's rate. Setup was a breeze and all the D-Link products have worked perfectly. With all the rebates subtracted, I've got less than $40 invested in my network.
35 Awesome router, EASY set-up
This router is AWESOME! My home network consists of a desktop, and a laptop that connects wireless. I plugged it all in, and it configured itself in about five minutes. I live near an apartment complex, so I manually adjusted some security settings to protect myself. Doing that was super easy. The set-up wizard makes it easy for morons to use this router. I have had absolutely zero problems with this router since I plugged it in. Works flawlessly all the time. The range is excellent as well. It goes through about five walls in my home no problem. I use my laptop upstairs from the router with no lag in connection speed.
36 Get one Today ...
I picked mine up a couple weeks ago and I've been satisfied with its service since the day I installed it. The wireless range is adequate for my duplex, and the connection is stable 99.9% of the time. I think that one time was a fluke. The security options are great for the price you pay and will protect all home users and all but the top level businesses. I feel safe, which is really the bottom line. Setup was so easy and quick it's barely worth mentioning. Opening ports takes all but 2 minutes and you are ready for streaming, hosting, or multimedia access via the internet. No matter what you do with your Internet connection I believe this router can handle it.
37 Smokin' router
Easy to set up, worked well for a while. It stopped working, which it did periodically, so I unplugged and plugged it back in (a common fix) but this last time it started smoking. No more router. That's why it's inexpensive!
38 A Very Simple, yet Robust Router
This router from D-Link is very easy to use and setup straight out of the box. In fact I was surprised that my Cable Internet connection was so easily shared by just plopping this router on my network. It took me all but 2 minutes to take out the router from the box, plug it into the wall and plug the cable modem into this router, then is mere seconds I was connected to the internet and behind a firewall.
My download speeds are exactly the same, as without the router, and so far everything works the same. Except now I can share the Internet with out new computer and we are protected by a firewall.
As far as the wireless goes, I let my son configure that since he is the only one with a laptop/need for the wireless portion of this router. He says it works fine and I see him outside more with his laptop browsing the Internet just for the cool factor. He shows all his friends that come over and seems to not have problems with the wireless connection.
Overall I give this router 5 stars because of how easy it is to setup, yet there is definitely features built into this that you might not know about until you need them. Then you are glad they're there.
39 Excellent inexpensive and easy to install Broadband Router
It took less than 30 minutes to setup this router up. It's has been very easy to install and configure. ReadMe & FAQ was really helpful in troubleshooting. Download the latest FW upgrade from Dlink site before connecting to the modem.
Great product from Dlink for a very good price.
Good Luck!!
40 A Good Overall Router
For the price this router is a steal.
I didn't think this would be as robust and easy to use as it is. I didn't really have to do much as far as configuring goes. I plugged in my cable modem and it conencted automatically after I entered my info in. The wireless part is fairly simple as well. You can even turn it off when you are away if you'd like.
The security, parental controls, and firewall options are really what showed me that this router can do whatever.
41 Does not work with DirecWay
Bought this for a direcway highspeed internet connection.
direcway must go to the PC first then you have to enable internet connection sharing (ICS) to share the connection.
I ran this product off of the PC and the router never could connect properly to the internet. it wasn't faulty it just didnt work.
... (just disable dhcp & plug into a normal lan port, not the WAN aka internet port)
good luck!
42 It was a Breeze
Setup, Install, Configuration, all of it. It was all a breeze. This router takes little to no effor to get running and stay running. That's the way I like it. I don't need more things that need maintenance in my life. I am glad this router doesn't need so much attention. I haven't had to configure anything for months and it just keeps working. No connection problems, no hassles with firewall rules, and nothing over heating, although this does get hot, just make sure you have a good place with airflow for it. Don't go sticking it in a drawer or something like that.
43 best router ever made
I had a SMC router and it always used to drop my connections. Moreover the setup was so bad. I was not able to connect 2 routers in a series with that one. But the D-link router was just amazing. Plug and play. Once again, great router at a great price
44 Good router, bad attenna, but great price.
I got this wireless router to replace a linksys wireless that kept knocking my linksys cable modem outta sync. When pulled the dlink outta of the box, I saw the reason why many people complained about the range. The antenna included is really small. I immediately switch that with an antenna off a Speedstream wireless router that broke when I moved. Now I have no problems with my cable modem being reset and I get about a 90% signal strength reading from my netgear card in laptop with my router on the other side of my house. Signal had to travel 65 feet and pass through 4 walls. not bad for dirt cheap price. Setup was also a breeze. The only thing that bothered me was that it didn't autogenerate wep code from a passphrase so I had to retype the wep code to match my laptop. other than that the setup was quick. The Dlink's port forwarding is not as fancy and it does not have alot of the extra features (that I never plan to use) as the linksys wireless router, but it least it doesn't knock my modem outta whack. Again the price is tough to beat.
45 A Top Value Router
This works when trying to get your PS2 online. No special settings.
The installation process is quick and painless since you just have to follow instructions and the setup wizard makes it even easier to get running the way you want.
You can even turn off the Wireless portion of this with a click of a button. I get a solid connection with this and the DWL-810+ plugged into my PS2, plus no lag.
I wish I had the money for one of these and an 810+ earlier. I would have been online playing games for the longest time.
There are no flaws in this router that I see.
46 Not too great , just okay - weak wireless signal
- This router is not too responsive, it takes 5-10 seconds or so for a request to get some replies. I don't know about other hardware router but it s[tin]ks comparing to my old hub+Linux as a router.
- It took me almost an hour to set this up, it just doesn't work at first. I found out I have to switch my cable modem on and off for couple times AFTER the router is connected to it to get it working.
- The wireless range [is very short] , I don't think it can handle more than 30 feet through couple walls.
47 Solid Performance with Easy Setup
I get a good solid signal in all the places I want to be on my laptop. I usually just sit on the couch or on the bed and do my work/eat/watch TV. My connection never drops, but that might be because there are no other 802.11b access points in my area, or at least none that my card detects. Speeds are fast and there is no difference in web browsing or downloading from the web. I can still use WinMX just fine.
The setup was very easy. I just plugged it in accessed the administration pages and ran the setup wizard. Then I was shown step-by-step what I should configure and configure I did. WEP is enabled, Broadcast SSID is disabled, and MAC filtering is on.
Overall a great buy.
48 Been running since August 1st
I got this for my birthday and set it up on the first of August. Since then everything has been running fine. I get good coverage throughout my home and my connection has always been stable. I don't do anything out of the ordinary, just basic online gaming, file sharing, and internet browsing. Sometimes I do some streaming video, but nothing too high tech.
I appreciate how easy this is to use and would recommend it for anyone who wants wireless and share DSL.
49 Having trouble with the TI chipset
The Dlink router is good but not the wireless part. It use a 166 Mhz ARM 9 network processer which is state of art and can have a sustain throughput of 45mbps for the wired ethernet connetion. But only one bad, I mean real bad implementation. It uses a TI chipset could not hold on for three hours of continously transmittion at about 45% load. It means you need to reboot the router about every three hours if you are downloading all the time. It happen to all routers with TI chipset. such as USR and everyone is advertising that they can go 22mbps. If you use it as a wired router only which will be the best price and performance you can get.
50 Great value!
My laptop has an Orinoco card built in. Tested it with D-Link DI-614+ and Netgear MR814v2.
D-link router,
-- you need to turn off the 4x mode in config menu to work with other non-Dlink 802.11b devices.
-- the bandwidth I get in all the tests is half of wired.
-- uses a Conexant processor, TI mini PCI card, one internal & one detachable external antenna and tons of capacitors.
-- has smart travel sized adaptor but only 110V.
-- sturdier body compared to Netgear.
-- extemely easy to setup.
Netgear router,
-- looks slightly better and is a bit lighter.
-- the bandwidth I get in all the tests not as good as wired.
-- has 3 yr warranty (although these are disposable routers longer warranty suggests better quality components)
-- has modern & custom made components inside it (couldn't resist opening them :)
-- slightly less range compared to Dlink.
-- has ridiculously heavy, big & very primitive AC adaptor and only 110V.
-- extremely easy to set up
Troubleshooting guide,
-- Update the drivers and firmware for your Wifi card.
-- Update the firmware to latest version for your router.
-- Turn off any firewall like ZoneAlarm on your PC intially.
-- Some applications like KazaaLite might need advanced setup on the router.
-- Check everything wired first, then wireless without WEP and finally wireless with WEP.
-- Disable SSID broadcast and enable 128bit WEP for security.
Don't expect any tech support from either company. (For such low priced routers they can hardly afford support.) You will need to google yourself or get help from forums. Both routers are great value for most users, get which ever is cheaper!
51 Great, except for regular signal drops
I really wanted to like this router. It's packed with features, looks cool and was cheap (after rebates). The setup was painless and I was working fine after only a few minutes. All was great until the wireless connection started dropping at regular intervals.
I work about 15 feet from the router (2 walls) and maintain a 95-100% signal. At least once an hour or so, the signal quickly falls to zero for a few seconds, then returns to normal. Unfortunately, I use a VPN link to my office and a signal drop of even a second kills my link. I then have to close my applications and log back on to the office. That's VERY annoying. I could accept some interference causing a drop once in a while, but at least once per hour, or more, is unacceptable.
Too bad, I liked this router otherwise but I sent it back and will try Netgear.
52 I like this product because of the following ...
1) 256-bit WEP with other D-Link adapter cards. (The other brands have 128-bit as the highest encryption). Plus enabling this level of WEP doesn't effect speed performance like other brands do.
2) MAC Filtering. I can restrict which actual adapters can connect to my network, wired or wireless. The advantage is clear for wireless, but the advantage for wired is in case someone brings a laptop with a wired adapter. They can't just sit down and plug in, they need permission first.
3) Setup/Configuration is a snap. You just login with your web browser and click on what you want. It is very clearly laid out and easy to navigate.
4) You can disable SSID broadcast, you have been able to for a long time. You can also turn off the wireless portion of this router so that when you aren't using it, or say are going on vacation you know you are safe from those pesky wardrivers. (eventhough the MAC filtering and 256-bit WEP should be enough)
5) The 802.11b+ speeds. a.k.a. 22Mbps - plus 4x mode. With these enabled and with your D-Link wireless adapter card (DWL-650+ and other + products) I can get 10Mbps raw data transfer speeds. Most 802.11b networks can only achieve 5Mbps if they are performing optimally.
6) The range on this router/AP is plenty adequate. In my 1500 sq ft home I get almost full coverage with my AP in a central location away from most electronic devices. There are only certain places where I don't get signal, but lets just say I get the signal where I need it. I can be outside on the porch, in the bathroom, in any of the bedrooms, kitchen, parts of the den, and so on.
7) The combination of this firewall, smart downloading, and windows updates keeps me virus free.
Overall I feel very safe, very comfortable and very free to roam the house with my laptop. Plus my other PCs are safe and work fine.
I've had this router for about a year with no problems and upgrading is always fun since D-Link is either fixing bugs, adding more speed, or more features with every upgrade.
Only you can decide for yourself which router you get, but for this price and you get all this I'd say your search is over.
53 A One Stop Shop
That's right this is your networking "One Stop Shop." It is your router, your firewall, your parental controls, your wireless access point, your 4-port switch, your wireless authentication system, your DHCP server, plus it has faster 802.11b speeds than the others out there.
Another great thing about this router/ap/everything is that it's so easy to install and get running. Some things are a little harder/you need to know what you are doing to get working, but all in all this D-Link thingy is beyond useful. Plus it's very inexpensive.
Get the new version with one antenna if you have the option.
54 Works Fine
The product works fine. But the configuration can be tricky if you don't have a brand new computer with Windows XP. I think the installation software automatically assumes that everyone has a brand new computer. For instance, my DSL connection always informed me that I was connected at 10.0 Mbps. When installing the router, it assumed 100.0 Mbps. Well, until I went into the protocol configuration and manually changed it, my connection was about 10% of what it's supposed to be. Bottom line is that the product works, if you know what you're doing. If their call center stinks, though, I would go for a more expensive product that has more of a walk through and trouble shooting support. Hope it helps
55 Great product
Great product. It's definitely one of the more inexpensive models out there, but performs very well.
Setup is a little tricky--as with all high-tech toys.
It has a good range. I can go all over my house (50 Feet with a very good to excellent connection) without a problem--through shut doors and thick walls. I have an old house and it works just fine.
Get it with rebates and you've got yourself a good piece of equipment.
56 Sketchy Wireless Connection
The wired connections worked just fine, and the wireless strength was very good. However, data transfer with a wireless connection worked very poorly. Requests to websites would take much longer than with a wired connection, and very frequently would not go through at all. We returned this after a few days in search for a wireless router that actually worked.
We do, however, like that there is no limit to the number of port forwards you can define.
57 All Works Well Thanks to Updated Firmware
I recently bought this and a laptop with the Centrino chip in it. I was getting Blue Screens of Death every once and a while and didn't know why. I narrowed it down to the 614+, but the next day D-Link released a firmware to upload to the 614+ that fixed that BSoD problem. Now everything is running very smoothly and I like the strong securoty features this has. 256-bit WEP, MAC filtering, Disable Broadcast of SSID, and some parental controls too. I feel very in control, and very secure. Plus the speeds I get with this and my laptop are fairly good. I can't tell a difference between this and my wired desktop as far as speed goes. Browsing the Internet is no different. Even the short list of games I play on my laptop can handle the wireless with no lag when playing LAN games or online games.
I recommend this router even for the novice who wont use the wireless portion. You can disable the wireless access point inside so it wont broadcast and wont let any wireless clients on. Then it is a powerful 4-port router with strong firewall. Plus you have wireless capabilities if someone with a laptop comes over, or you get a laptop or wireless adapter for your desktop in the future. All you'd have to do is log in to the web based configurator and click enable and apply changes.
I recommend this to everyone who shares a broadband connection.
58 could'nt get it to work
I could'nt get this router to work. I purchased a Linksys wireless and it worked in a flash! purchase the wireless "G" standard and you won't be sorry. "B" is on it's way out.
59 Spotty connection
This router is really horrible when it comes to consistancy. Others claim that the range is bad, but it's worse than just bad range. I can pick up an excellent signal, but it doesn't last very long. I can't maintain a conversation with windows messenger or do practically anything that requires a constant connection including streaming media, long downloads, etc.
Do not purchase this item, you will regret it.
60 Bad Bad Router
Do not get this Router if you have to VPN into work from your wireless connection. I spent 2 days trawling the net for information on setting up a VPN sesion from my notebook. All I found were problem reports with the DI 614+'s ability to VPN. Needless to say I returned it this morning. I am going back to Linksys. It's costlier, but it works without having to upgrade firmware every other day. Best of luck for people willing to stay with it
61 Best of the bunch
I have tried SMC, Netgear, and D-link wireless routers. I like the D-link most of the bunch. Their software is the best of the three. It has a little small and light AC power adaptor. The speed seems good and the range is good.
Netgear has a sexier package--slightly smaller and more rounded but its is offset by having a HUGE, heavy brick of an AC Power Adaptor that weighs what seems like about four times the weight of the router. Netgear had about ten feet more range than the other two, but I actually travel with my wireless router and the huge adaptor doesn't compare well to D-links.
The SMC has the worst software of the bunch. The one I'm using is a couple years old though so maybe they fixed that up in the newer versions. This router has a parallel printer port which I like alot so I use this one at home. Its range is the same as the D-link. Speed is slightly slower.
In the end D-Link is clearly my favorite and the one I would recommend to anyone (unless they need a printer server).
62 Works fine - just follow instructions
As instructions stated, I installed the latest firmware for the router (which obviously is on their site) and followed instructions. NO BIG DEAL. IT WORKS!
But if you are the type who think they know everything and don't take time to read instructions OR if you are not comfortable with computers, go with another brand because updating the latest firmware may not be for you.
Signal strength fluctuates around 65% to 50% at 50 feet (my bedroom to the living room). Can't really notice a drop off in performance but maybe if I had a larger apartment :p
Its an all around good cable router which allows me to check my email and surf the web without having to buy 100ft of Cat 5 cable.
63 A Nice Wireless Router For the Price (after Rebates)
I found this router a lot easier to set up than the wired router (Linksys) it replaced. And it's real easy to configure. After rebates, this will cost under [$$], so you really cannot beat this deal.
64 Works fine with Mac 10.2.6
Hooked this up to my Mac G4, no software needed. Just remember to unplug your cable modem first, then power the modem, then power the router. Connects and reconnects without fail. I have been able to use an iBook with AirPort all over my house and outside. Also works fine with a Belkin USB Adapter on another floor.
65 Will never buy any D-link product
This router is totally a junk. Wasted me so much time but won't work. Tech. support is useless. I have cable internet service. Without this router, the cable internet is fast and reliable. If I use this router in between my computer and the cable modem, the downloading speed got extremely slow, unbearable. Their tech support is useless. First time called they asked me to update the firmware. Still not work right. Second time called they sent me by email some info and ask me to call again if still have problem. It is so annoying. I will never use any Dlink product again.
66 Easier than I thought!
I'm a tech lover, but not really the best at setting up and configuring tech products. So, when I bought the DI-614+ for my first wireless network I expected to take several hours trying to figure out how to set it up. It was much more simple than I expected, since I followed the directions in the quick installation guide exactly. I bought the DWL-650+ card for my laptop, and set everything up directly on my computer. It took about 30 minutes total from the time I opened the boxes, which for me was extremely fast! Now, I can walk all over the house with my laptop and stay online the whole time.
67 SuperFast Speeds! for 802.11b
I was amazed to find out that my 802.11b network can go 8.6 Mbps when I test throughput ratings with Qcheck. Normal 802.11b, not 802.11b+ like some D-Link products are, can only go 5.5 Mbps max so I am getting those extra 3Mbps for the same price, actually even cheaper than other 802.11b stuff. I am excited and enjoy the fact that I am faster than others without paying more.
The range of this router/Access point isn't what I expected either. I can get a signal in 3 rooms down the hall from my "office" and still be able to get a good 2Mbps throughput, and since my DSL is only 1.5Mbps down I am still faster than my Internet connection, thus noticing no difference in surf speed.
I like everything about this thing. 256 WEP is a nice thing to have along with your blazing 802.11b+ speeds. I also have the easy capability to open certain ports in the firewall so I can play games securely. I like playing games and so do other family members so this was an important issue when picking out a router.
68 very short range
I bought this sh.. four days ago. Tried to make it work at home, but looks like it has a very short reception range. I had my server on the first floor and tried my second PC to add to the network and nothing worked ( I installed dlink wireless adapter). The distance is about 40-50 feet max. Bad, bad product - a lot of frustration :(
69 Cheap, Feature rich, and easy to use.
With a price tag of about half of one hundred bucks plus rebate this router/wireless access point is well worth buying. You might pay the same price for either a router OR an access point. With this you get both, plus a firewall and medium level parental controls.
As far as setting it up goes, this was rather painless. I've needed help before from my more technically inclined friends, but this comes with actually hepful instructions and is fairly straight forward. It took me a while to figure out certain terms, but then realized what they ment after a while.
I've configured this and my laptop to work wirelessly with 256-bit WEP encryption and I've been running just fine since then. I have signal in almost every room in my home, but my garage is too far away from the office, so that doesn't get a solid conenction. I might buy a repeater to help extend the range.
70 Great Product, Lousy documentation
I just configured this router yesterday. I was up and running in minutes. This is a full featured router complete with a DHCP and a built-in firewall to protect your local network from being probed or attacked from outside. All features of the router are easily accessbile via a web browser (IE) with more advanced options then I can list here. HOWEVER, my one gripe with this product is the very poor documentation that ships with the box. It only provides info for the "quick setup" with no added documentation on any of the advanced features or recommended security settings. What does this mean? It means that out of the box with defaults, you are opening up and sharing your 'private' local network for your neighbors or anyone who gets close enough to your home to detect the access point with a standard 802.11b/g card. Got shared folders? They're visible. It's easy enough to secure the wireless network (change the SSID, don't broadcast the SSID and implement WEP with a mandatory encryption key) yet there is no d-link documentation that tells you this. Same for the firewall - unless you're a network admin (and I am), you wouldn't know that you have to open ports in the firewall to make some internet savy programs & hardware work correctly (think webcams, netmeeting, online games, etc).
Bottom Line: I love this product. It works great. But it really needs more comprehensive documentation then a quick setup guide, especially for the network newbie.
71 Excellent easy-to-configure SOHO/home wireless router
I am a freelance IT consultant and part of my business is setting up broadband networks for clients,
friends and neighbors. During the past three years, I have set up more than two dozen networks
and have worked with a variety of SOHO/home routers, including those from Linksys, Netgear, SMC,
and D-Link. Although I like Netgear a lot and Linksys is by far the sales leader, I have found
D-Link's routers and adapters to be very reliable and easy to configure. D-Link has a very aggressive rebate program and its products offer great value for the money.
Three months ago (May 2003), I decided to go wireless and upgrade my aging Netgear RT314 router. I have a
large one bedroom apartment that doubles as an office and I wanted to be able to use my laptop with a
wireless card at my bedroom desk as well as the dining room table and while relaxing on the living room
couch. I also wanted to be able to connect my graphics workstation and Linux file server with Cat5 cables.
In addition, friends and associates stop over with their laptops and I wanted them to be able to
connect to the network.
I have had mixed results with Linksys products and I narrowed my choice down to the Netgear MR814
and the D-Link DI-614+. Both products are very good, but I wound up going with D-Link because with a
rebate it cost less than the MR814, offered 256 bit WEP, and the DI-614+ looked better in my apartment
than the MR814.
So far, so good. I have been using the DI-614+ for more than three months without any problems. I have never had to call tech support. I had initially set up the DI-614+ for Verizon DSL and just switched over to the faster, Optimum Online Cable service and I had no problems changing over to Cable from DSL. The connection wizard makes it very easy. There are times when I have had five people connected to the router and no problems.
I would recommend the DI-614+ to most home and small office users. As I have pointed out, it is very easy to configure and runs very well on its own. However, I should also note that I have yet to do anything complicated with the DI-614+ like setting up a VPN or using NAT. I do plan to use these services and I will let you know how it works out.
72 Needs more power/range. Doesn't work w/ 2.4 GHz phones.
It looks good, is fairly small, and was a breeze to set up. At first, when the computer was in the same room as the router, it was great. Super fast. When I moved the computer to the basement, it still worked fine at first. The basement is two floors down, but directly underneath the router. So the actual distance was only 20 feet at the most.
The next day I couldn't get a signal at all. I tried rebooting the router and the computer. No luck. It would pick up a signal for about five seconds and then drop it. Then I disconnected/unplugged the 2.4GHz cordless that was on the same desk as the router. Voila! I got a signal with the link quality at 99%, and the signal strength at 70%. However, apparently that is not nearly as good as a 33.6k modem, as it took both Yahoo! and espn.com about 4-5 minutes to load up. Each. So, I took the router and NIC back. What was the point of that?
I think that this router does exactly what it is billed to do. I also think that it would work great if it only had to go through one wall or floor. Two was too much. The equipment worked perfectly fine. My problem was that the technology just isn't good enough yet. At least, not without an external antenna.
I'm waiting for the prices to drop on the 802.11g stuff.
73 Good at short distances; firmware issues
Hoping to avoid compatability issues between multiple manufacturers, I purchased an all Dlink system - DI-614+ router, 2 DWL-650+ PC cards and a DWL-120+ USB adapter for a desktop. This was supposed to replace an older Intel Anypoint 1.6 Mb/sec system, which I thought were to slow and cumbersome, as it requires 1 PC to act as a router, meaning that it has to stay up all the time. Tried the new combination and after 1.5 days of wasting my time, I am now back to my old one. The system has several major problems:
1. Router's DHCP kept issuing duplicate IP addresses to multile clients. rebooting/releasing the addresses on the clients did not seem to help.
2. Performance was good only within the same room. Moving a laptop about 40-50 feet away caused the throughput to drop significantly (1 MPS rate) and, at about 50 feet, no data could get thru. In my kids room, 1 floor above, approximately 25 feet away, the old Intel cards could get ~30K BPs (30K bytes/sec). Dlink, despite 15X theretical speed improvement, at best got about 50K, and, as I moved the laptop just a few feet, I could not connect at all.
3. AirPlus utility showing Signal Strength and Link Quality is pretty much useless. This may be related to the previous issue, but at 98% link quality and 70% signal strength, the system would no longer work. One would expect that 98% and 70% should be good enough to work.
4. After rebooting the router, the PC with the USB card (also rebooted after the router was bounced) began to drop connection and reconnect every few seconds, rendering it useless. Seems like yet another firmware problem,. Tried new firmware - no help.
5. Tech support took 1 hour to get thru; was not of much help, other than say that the router is 'defective' and I should get it exchanged. I find this ('defective unit') highly doubtfull, as it operates perfectely fine within the same room, and the DHCP problem sounds like a firmware problem, which means that changing the unit would not do much good.
The bottom line is that the system does not seem to work beyond about 10-20 feet, or accross more than 1 wall/ceiling. At these distances, I am better of with a wired system. For obvious reasons, the whole package went back to the store.
74 Plugged it in and it started working........Perfect!
First, I want to thank everyone who wrote reviews for all of the wireless broadband router's I was looking into. I was dead set to get the realy swoopy looking Linksys, but after reading the reviews, calling the D-Link Customer Support for a few dummy first timer questions, I went with what seemed to be the popular favorite--the D-Link Air Plus DI-614+. This is my very first DSL and Wireless experience. I have never hooked-up a system before.
Now being the type just like all of you that was looking for price...Waiting for my DSL Modem to arrive from Earthlink, I bought the unit, and was sort of puzzled by the lack of information or minor directions, until I found the entire works of it on the CD in pdf form. I never once got around to reading any of it, mostly spending my time routing an ethernet cable to and from the modem to a HP Pavilion Desktop in one of the bedrooms. It would end up that I would never have to!
For my computer, I just recently bought a HP ze5375us with wireless modem, so the lack of wiring was going to be welcomed.
After hooking up the Netopia DSL modem, I went and utilized the notebook to get it all working while attached to an ethernet cable. When finished, I plugged the desktop in through the router, and after some minor network assistance from Earthlink, it too was up and running. But then it was time for the big test! Hooking-up the D-Link Air Plus DI-614+ could have been done blind. I rebooted my notebook, and went into Network connections and clicked on the Wireless Aerial Network, it immedietely prompted that it had an excellent signal; I clicked on Internet Explorer and in a flash my home page opened up!
Amazing!
While I have yet to have to deal with their customer service, other then call them when I was considering buying it, just to ask a few dummy questions, they were stern, but helpful. Definitely NO PROBLEM! I have run into much worse talking to others.
I'm going to give it 5 star right now, but will report back if needed. So far, it seems to be the most effortless perephial I have ever bought. That alone has to stand for something!
August 6, 2003-The unit is working better then ever. Never had it reboot or shut down as mentioned in other reviews.
Congrats D Link! Your product is 5 stars in my book! I would recommend it to anyone, especially beginners in the wonderful world of WIFI.
September 1, 2003-The unit has yet to lock or crash as previously reviewed by others. This unit has been plugged-in and working as specified since the day I installed it!
75 Easy to setup, use - compatible w/ Centrino
I have tried two wireless routers to date with my IBM Thinkpad w/ Centrino wireless. My first, the Linksys BEFW11S4, never sustained a connection for longer than 30 seconds before dropping the connection, then re-establishing, then dropping, etc. Impossible to download large files, get booted off IM constantly, and took forever for simple websites to open. Linksys technical support tried to dump me off to IBM technical support, but I just didn't buy it, considering my wireless connections have been fine elsewhere. I have also seen many websites offering this suggestion and that, tweaking the connection software, upgrading firmware, blah blah blah, but honestly, how hard does it have to be to get my wireless network up and running.
The D-Link DI-614+ has since worked like a charm. Easy to setup. No dropped connections. Seems like it works fine with my Centrino.
76 So far it has been reliable after firmware upgrade
So far it has been reliable after firmware upgrade.
This used to perform somewhat scepticle as far as a solid internet connection. then I remembered that you should upgrade firware ever so often and found that the firmware that came with the unit was waaaaaay behind what is released now. heck there is even a new hardware version of this router with only one antenna that is supposed to be better.
either way I downloaded the latest firmware and everything has been solid for the past month or so. i am happy with my d-link router and appreciate the upgrades they provide.
77 Don't buy this piece of junk
I got this device 3 month ago. First, I set it up very easy. Boom, it's up and running. However, one month later, it died suddenly. Simply just dead. No signal, no web interface, just silent (my hardware vsersion is A2). So I spent 1 hour with their tech support and managed to sent this thing back to dlink. During my waiting time, i got another one of this. And this new one doesn't work at all out of box. The m2 defective light is always on. I was angery and just returned it. This one is version B1 (with only one antenna).
Couple days later, I got another one from dlink service center as a replacement of my first one. This one lasts only 2 days. Now it's dead again. The m2 defective light is solid on. I have to fight with their tech support again...
I've never run into a product like this. Don't waste your time with this junk. Go get a linksys. They produce much more decent products.
78 outstanding wireless home network solution
I took a chance on using D-Link router -- the reviews here were pretty negative. However, I plugged into some of the PC Mag reviews and they gave ample support for my decision to go with D-Link.
This was effortless and the equipment is top-notch. I didn't even read the instructions. I just plugged stuff in and started everything up and VIOLA. good stuff, D-LINK!
79 New Firmware fixes some bugs
I had some time settings issues and some weird reboots once a month or so, but since the new firmware release I haven't seen those problems anymore.
The newest firmware was posted in march, but I didn't see it until about may. It works great now and I have to give it 5 stars because I don't have anything against it anymore. If I would have done a review like 5 months ago I would have gave it 4 stars.
So my recommendation is to get the newest firmware and see if that doesn't fix any problems before you rate it low.
80 Perfect Router
All you need is this router.
It is a Firewall, DHCP server, wireless AP, 22Mbps speeds, 4 port switch (for up to 4 computers wired, more wireless), and it looks cool. Plus it all works out of the box.
81 A Lot of Features
I like this router. It is a wireless access point with good range and security, plus a 4 port switch/firewall to block out all the bad guys. I had this setup in no time at all and had no problems upgrading firmware. This works great with my DWL-650+ and DWL-900AP+ as a repeater. Awesome range throughout my huge home.
82 Less is more???
Bad software and poor wireless range...what else could you ask for in a wireless router?
Do yourself a favor and get a Linksys or NetGear. You will be much happier and have quite a few less problems. the software is very unstable with many DHCP problems, such as server not found (happens randomly). Also, I often get dropped connections at barely 20 or 25 feet. Why do I not have this problem with a Linksys router?
83 Low range and trouble getting replacement.
My Di-614+ router stopped working so I called Tec support and got a RMA Number. I choose cross shipping because they should send replacement the next or 2 days. It's been since the 25th of June that a cross shipment was suppose to happen.
I called them a week after, asking why it had still not shipped and was told they would take care of problem, today is July 7th still not shipped. Called RMA department again, buy wait too long, recording say's press 1 to leave message, Press 1 nothing happens.
What gives? Someone on the D-link broadband group said it took 2 months and had to twist managements arm. You would think that someone would get back on this or even try to make good
by doing overnight shipping or upgrading products.
Also range is pretty weak, I even tried moving the router all over the house to see if Laptop got better connect, didn't make difference, once it was in same room it did get better.
I guess D-link doesn't consider networking to be a very important issue for its customers.
I guess hearing network is down and we still don't have
a replacement in over two weeks is funny.
84 Joe average computer dude
I bought a new computer and gave my old Compaq to my kids so they could play games. I wanted to buy a wireless system and researched a little bit; PC Magazine gave great ratings to the 614+ so I bought it. I understood that it was not the peak of technology, but I wanted something to help me learn the process. I also bought a wireless PC Card (520+). Not a bad deal with all the rebates.
The instructions looked very easy to follow. I set up the wireless card first (no idea why), but I had a hard time getting the drivers to install. Several calls to tech support (which were friendly and trying to help, but did not do much) I got it to work. Then I set up the router on my new computer. Installed as advertised according to the manual. When it came time to re-launch the internet, it would not work. Another set of calls to tech support (lots of holding). They made me go through this pain-staking process of resetting the router (hold the reset button with a paper clip for 20 seconds, wait 10-15 seconds and redo this two more times???... I felt like an idiot), but it worked. I asked the service rep if this was normal with other customers and surprisingly he said "YES."
I am now up and running and my kids are happily playing games on Disney and CartoonNetwork.
I am pretty happy with the speeds I am getting. I have not had time to set up the encryption, but that is my next step. I am happy with the system, but the set up process does not go as smoothly as they make it seem.
If you buy these products, plan on making a few calls to tech service.
85 Works Great
I recently purchase the D-Link DI-614+. I had never set up a wireless network before, but found this really a snap to install. I had one problem with the installation, contacted D-Link support and they were very helpfull and solved my problem within minutes. Would recommend this product for ease of installation and operability.
86 D link 614+
Well if this is the first time you set up a wireless network, you cannot go wrong with any product from Dlink. I had never set up any kind of networking solution for my home or office. I bought 2 products from Dlink the 614+ router and the DWL 810+ for my PS2.
They were both up and running out of the box after just following the simple instructions that came with both items.
After enjoying the wireless connectivity for about 2 hours I called their customer service number so they could walk me thru making the wireless connection more secure. They did just that now my network is encrypted with a 128 bit encryption. They helped me set it up so that only my DWL 810+ can connect to my router via a security key that is part of the setup options!
Sounds complicated doesnt it? Trust me its not! If youre thinking wireless really cant go wrong here!
87 This router is Junk and so is D-Link's customer service
I have a D-Link cable modem(DCM-200), D-Link air cards (DWL-650+) for both laptops and a D-Link wireless router (DI-614+). Up until recently the D-Link router was giving me tremendously fast speeds on my laptop. All of a sudden (no configuration changes to any of the computers) speeds through the router got hideously slow. I am talking about speeds sub 300 Kbps through the router, but if I bypass it and go straight to the cable modem, I see speeds of 2900 Kbps. I contacted Cox and the lines are good. I contacted D-Link and they sent a replacement router to me. Well, the replacement router is doing the same thing. Hideously slow speeds. Understand, I do all my speed tests on the computer that is hard wired to the router, not the wireless connections. Anyway, I contacted D-Link again and they say nothing is wrong with the D-Link router, but they cannot explain why speeds through the router are sub 300 Kbps when speeds directly to the cable modem are 2900 Kbps.
I expect some difference in speeds on the hard wired desktop and speeds on the wireless laptop. All of my speed tests were done on the hard wired desktop. If I connect the desktop straight to the cable modem and run a speed test, I should be able to then connect the same PC straight to the router and achieve similar speeds. But I am not.
My advice is to NOT buy D-Link. IF you do and have problems, don't expect D-Link to step up to the plate and help you out. I am done with D-Link
88 Easily Configured
I purchased this router back in November of 2002 when I was informed I was going to be receiving notebook with a wireless card. The unit has worked flawlessly. The encryption works perfectly with my HP (DLINK Non Proprietary) card.
Windows XP recognized the connection and away I went.
I will be purchasing another one for college because the router has worked so well that my family wants to keep it for a firewall. In addition, I have also used it to setup a Hard Wired Dell Computer and an old computer that I used for a web server. The router could be reached from any place with internet access and the permissions for the ports are very easily configurable. If you are going to buy a wireless router, purchase this one.
89 Encryption, MAC filtering, XBOX Live, ... it ALL works.
Everything I've thrown at this router has worked just the way I want it to. Correctly. I have been playing XBox Live with it since I got it a month ago, I've kept intruders out thanks to the MAC filtering, and I've been able to encrypt my data flying through the air with 128-bit WEP encryption. I feel safe knowing that if someone wants to join my network I need to enter their MAC address, plus they need to know the 128-bit encryption code.
I also feel comfortable knowing I can play, install, or implement anything I want on my home network. This is because if I need to adjust my router's firewall or any other settings with the router I feel confident enough to do so because of the ease of use.
I also get a wide area to access the AP with when I have the dwl-650+ plugged into my latptop. I can even go outside my home and access my network.
I am very pleased with this product and feel confident that it will be in my network for a long time to come.
90 Encryption problem
The WEP Encryption did not work for either the 128- or 64-bit encryption. The laptop and wireless card I used worked just fine on another wireless network I set up, so this router was the problem. I called up D-Link's not-too-helpful tech support and received the suggestion that I try typing the encryption key again.
91 Great router... Even bought one for mom!
This has been a great router. I have had no problems with it whatsoever. One drawback is that even with the "AirPlus" reciever PC card, I haven't seen the promised 22mbps speed. You don't need 22mbps to surf the net though...
Overall, a fantastic investment. I share my cable internet access with 3 roommates and even let the neighbor piggyback! Config settings are straightforward and easy to use. Bought one for my mom to use with her laptop... she has had no problems. I highly recommend this router!
92 Reboot AGAIN????!!!!!!!
I ended up having to go through 2 of these routers and ultimately returned both. The first one would never even connect and after calling tech support, was advised the router was bad so back it went to the store to be replaced by what looked like a "updated version". The second one actually installed seamlessly and I was up a surfing within minutes. Unfortunately, if I left my computer idle for more than 5 minutes, I would lose connectivity. Everything was fine if I continued to surf online non-stop (not very practical). After calling tech support again, they blamed "interferance" from my monitor or CPU. After moving it about 4 ft away from my puter, nothing changed as far as maintaining a connection. Two e-mails and another call to tech support had me trying to upgrade my firmware (I already had the latest version) and then blamed the wires to the router. I was sick of booting and rebooting so back it went to the store.
93 Flakey operation, poor range
I've not been terribly impressed with this box. DHCP has been flakey at best (about half the machine in the house have required manual IP selection--AT THE LEAST), and the range of the router is ridiculously poor. At my fiancee's old apartment, my TiBook could connect to the wireless networks of two of her neighbors, at my band's rehearsal space, I can get to the next apartment no problem, I've been able to war drive. With this base station, I'm 15 feet away from the base station and can't get a stable connection.
Tech support, at least, is reasonably helpful, but I would definitely consider a different wifi router if I were doing it all over again.
94 better than I thought...
I expected to receive no more than 50% of the signal, because I read one comment that said, that the guy only could receive 0-30% of the signal. But when I intalled the D-link, I received around 90%, thats a lot, my net still really fast. I am using the iBook (Machintosh) and it works perfect. For me, it is the best wireless sytem ever. But I also bought the 800+ the range extander, it did not work well, this i wouldn't buy it.
95 Just excellent!
Easy to install, easy to configure, extremely versatile and just a great value in general. I loved mine so much I talked most of my friends into getting them and they all agree it's a great way to 'unwire' your home.
96 Cheap Price = Cheap Product
I purchased this with a mail in rebate. At first I had a little difficulty setting it up, Tech support was semi helpful and did get me working. Then I had my laptop with a D-link dwl650(paid $ after rebate) and a d-link CF DC660 802.11b card for my ipaq and now both wireless connections drop their connection ever few minutes. If I leave the ipaq off the laptop connection is stable. I also have a problem with the DHCP refreshing from the 614 router and read that others had the same problem. I agree with others who sense that the 22mbs is BS and can't see any speed increase. The whole world of WiFi is GREAT and surfing the net while having a Jamba Juice at the local mall is fun. The dropped sessions and DHCP problems have me wishing I had paid the extra money and got a better router. You really do get what you pay for!
97 Had to be rebooted too often
I bought this router and the D-link card. The set up was easy, and it worked fine for a while. But after every couple of days, I had to re-boot it. I found later that a firm ware upgrade would obviate the problem. But why should I need to upgrade firmware for the basic functionality.
My recommendation would be to go for a tested 11 Mbps. Most people do not get internet connection over 1.5 Mbps anyhow so there is no bandwidth you are losing.
98 I was wrong.....
When I first received this I was very pleased with it's ease of setup and configuration. I hastily gave it a 5 star review here on Amazon. But after the first few days I noticed it started to drop the connnection on the WAN side (to the internet) about two or three times a day. Apparently, when the lease expired on the dynamically assigned IP address from my ISP, this router "forgot" to renew it. Resulted in having to reboot the router to get the connection back.
Thinking it might be an ISP problem, I hooked up my old SMC non-wireless router to check it out. Problem disappeard so it was definitely the D-Link. Getting through on tech support only took about three minutes but the person on the other end was clueless. Took at least five minutes to convince him that the WAN, and not wireless, connectivity was the problem. He had me change a few settings in the hopes that it might start working. It was obvious he had no clue what the cause might be and was just shotgunning it.
The suggested changes had no effect and I was told to return the unit. Got the replacement and it wouldn't get a dynamic IP address at all so it was absolutely worthless. The third time was a charm, but only because I quit messing around with D-link and got a Netgear MR814 instead.
Pros:
1. Very good range. Better range than the Netgear I replaced it with.
2. Good configuration interface with lots of options. Port forwarding on this router was easier than any other I've seen and included pre-installed templates for common applications (FTP, HTTP, PPTP, etc...)
3. Better encryption with 256 WEP. Most competitors only have 128 bit.
Cons:
1. Didn't work! Twice!
2. Some security features lacking. No ability to turn off broadcast of SSID or permit/deny wireless connectivity by MAC address.
Neutral:
1. Tech support calls were answered quickly, but techs seemed to have a flowsheet to follow and if your problem isn't on the flowsheet then they don't have a clue how to help you.
2. The 22 Mbps connection speed. Yeah, my wireless devices said they were connected at 22 Mbps but I didn't notice any greater practical throughput than wireless devices connected at 11 Mbps. If all you're doing is surfing the internet, then you'll max out your internet connection speed long before your wireless connection speed anyways.
99 D-Link Wireless Problems
I own both this router and the Netgear MR-814. The Netgear wins hands down. I am quite experienced with both hardware and software, so my problems are not an issue of ignorance on my part. The D-Link simply has inherent problems in their wireless implementation. Hardwire connections worked fine, but when a wireless device was connected the router was plagued with dropped connections. On my cable line, losing my wireless connection was a norm. In a college dorm the situation was even worse - the D-Link often failed to allow wireless at all on the faster LAN connection. To make matters worse, the Netgear clearly demonstrated a stronger signal (60% Netgear to 40% on the Dlink). I recommend the Netgear MR-814 whole heartedly.
100 Works like a charm!
The router works great. The first night all was well. The second night my husband, who has the wireless NIC, couldn't get a signal. At this point we downloaded the firmware (just follow the instructions in the Q&A section of D-Link), and we were back in business. BTW, our offices are on two separate floors. Not a problem for this wireless router. We're using this router in unison with a Linksys modem. No troubles with the equipment. The trouble was with our broadband provider, but that's another story.
