Belkin N1 Wireless Router, Desktop, Notebook, and USB Cards

Introduction:

When I was asked to review the full slate of N1 MIMO products from Belkin, I was excited.  First, because my wireless setup was admittedly getting a little old, but second, because I had heard good things about Belkin, and felt that this would be a major upgrade for my system in a number of areas.  This review had me happy with some features to begin with, but as I went on, I was reminded of something my parents said to me when I was a kid and had failed a test: “We aren’t mad at you, but we sure are disappointed.”  Boy, does that hurt.

Belkin, a California company founded in 1983, provides a wide variety of computer and electronic accessories and peripherals, including wired and wireless networking, USB hubs, surge protectors, and audio/video cables.  The company claims to have experienced over 20 straight years of growth, with over $1 billion in sales.

Closer Look:

The Belkin N1 products come in very attractive, professional looking packaging.  This packaging includes a picture of the product on the front, a quick install guide on the side (only three easy steps!), and right below this is their toll free, 24/7 Tech Support number.  Remember this point; it will come in very handy later on.  The back of the package offers an explanation of what this product can do for the user, including a claimed 300 mbps link rate.

Inside each box, you will find the product, the Quick Install Guide, installation software, and a user manual.  The box for the router also includes the AC power supply, a Wireless Security Setup Guide, and a Network Status Display guide.  The items in the router packaging are labeled with large letters, which will be covered in the installation section.