Wireless-N shocker! Cisco announces E-Series line of home routers
By Joseph L. Flatley 
posted March 31st 2010 1:56PM
posted March 31st 2010 1:56PM
If we know you, you're about ready to bathe your place of residence in some of those 802.11n waves you've been hearing so much about. Well, you're in luck -- the cats at Cisco have announces the Linksys E-Series line of routers for your home, flat, or small business. All of these bad boys feature the all new Cisco Connect software (with exhaustive parental control and a separate password-protected guest network). Priced between $80 and $180, select models include Gigabit Ethernet, UPnP AV Media Server, external storage via USB, Linux, and more. Available now at Amazon, Staples, and Linksys. For the whole sordid tale, peep the PR after the break.
Cisco Launches New Linksys E-Series Routers
Line of Powerful Wireless-N Routers Provides Tech Enthusiasts with the Ultimate Customization and Control of their Home Networking Experience
SAN FRANCISCO, March 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- -- Cisco today unveiled a new line of Linksys® wireless routers, designed to let its core audience of tech experts and enthusiasts take their home networking experience to the next level. The new, streamlined product lineup sets a new precedent for simplicity, power, and performance and makes it easy for consumers to find the right technology to fit their needs. The line also includes new Cisco Connect software, which gives users tools for easier customization and control of their home wireless experience.
"Linksys pioneered the first home router 10 years ago, and 50 million units later is the world's leading provider of home wireless routers," said Jonathan Kaplan, senior vice president and general manager of Cisco Consumer Products. "The new E-Series caters to Linksys' core technology-minded consumer base, with a simplified product line-up that is ideal for today's sophisticated home network user."
Cisco Connect Software: Simple Setup with Advanced Capabilities
With the addition of the new Cisco Connect software, the new Linksys E-Series is designed to make it easier for users to customize and control their wireless network settings to match their preferences. With a quick and easy setup, the software auto-assigns the WPA security passkey and SSID. Once configured, users can use Cisco Connect to easily manage their wireless home network by:
* Adding multiple Internet-capable devices to the network
* Setting parental controls for each computer or device
* Giving visitors password-protected Internet access on a separate guest network
* Customizing advanced settings and changing the network SSID and password
For the advanced user, Linksys' advanced features are still available through the default IP address (192.168.1.1).
Product Descriptions and Pricing
The new Linksys E-Series line offers a full range of technology options to help users find what works best for them. The new line, including a USB Wireless-N Adapter, is available immediately at Amazon, Staples, Linksys.com, and soon at Best Buy, Target, Wal-Mart and other leading retailers.
Linksys E1000 Wireless-N Router (MSRP: $79.99)
* Wirelessly connects computers and other devices at transfer speeds up to 300 Mbps
* Uses four Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) ports to directly connect wired devices
* Ideal for general wireless Internet usage and home office productivity
Linksys E2000 Advanced Wireless-N Router (MSRP: $119.99)
* Includes four Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps) ports for faster file sharing with other Gigabit-enabled devices, including computers, hard drives, and servers
* Features selectable dual-band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) technology to help avoid interference, allowing for smoother file transfers and media streaming
* Ideal for connecting computers, gaming consoles, Internet-enabled HDTVs and Blu-Ray players, and other wireless devices at transfer speeds up to 300 Mbps
Linksys E2100L Advanced Wireless-N Router with Linux OS: (MSRP: $119.99)
* Utilizes the Linux operating system for flexibility to customize the network
* Uses four Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) ports to directly connect wired devices
* Built-in UPnP AV Media Server streams entertainment content to an Xbox 360, PS3 or other compatible device
* USB port provides connectivity to storage devices for file sharing at home or over the Internet
Linksys E3000 High-Performance Wireless-N Router (Dual-Band): (MSRP: $179.99)
* Features simultaneous dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), high-performance Wireless-N technology for smoother HD video streaming, wireless gaming and file transfers
* Includes four Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps) ports for faster file sharing with other USB port and provides connectivity to storage devices for file sharing at home or over the Internet
* Built-in UPnP AV media server enables streaming of entertainment content to an Xbox 360, PS3 or other compatible device
* Optimized for entertainment, ideal for connecting computers, gaming consoles, Internet-enabled HDTVs and Blu-Ray players, and other wireless devices at transfer speeds up to 300 Mbps
Linksys AE1000 High-Performance Wireless-N USB Adapter: (MSRP: $69.99)
* Provides Wireless-N capability to Windows desktop computers and laptops
* Selectable dual-band wireless-N - connects to either a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz wireless network
* Includes USB extension cable and adapter base for improved wireless connectivity - ideal for hard-to-reach USB ports
Follow Us:
* Become a Cisco Linksys Facebook fan: www.facebook.com/ciscolinksys
* Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/officiallinksys
* Watch us on YouTube: www.youtube.com/officiallinksys
* Cisco Consumer Blogs: http://blogs.cisco.com/consumer
Line of Powerful Wireless-N Routers Provides Tech Enthusiasts with the Ultimate Customization and Control of their Home Networking Experience
SAN FRANCISCO, March 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- -- Cisco today unveiled a new line of Linksys® wireless routers, designed to let its core audience of tech experts and enthusiasts take their home networking experience to the next level. The new, streamlined product lineup sets a new precedent for simplicity, power, and performance and makes it easy for consumers to find the right technology to fit their needs. The line also includes new Cisco Connect software, which gives users tools for easier customization and control of their home wireless experience.
"Linksys pioneered the first home router 10 years ago, and 50 million units later is the world's leading provider of home wireless routers," said Jonathan Kaplan, senior vice president and general manager of Cisco Consumer Products. "The new E-Series caters to Linksys' core technology-minded consumer base, with a simplified product line-up that is ideal for today's sophisticated home network user."
Cisco Connect Software: Simple Setup with Advanced Capabilities
With the addition of the new Cisco Connect software, the new Linksys E-Series is designed to make it easier for users to customize and control their wireless network settings to match their preferences. With a quick and easy setup, the software auto-assigns the WPA security passkey and SSID. Once configured, users can use Cisco Connect to easily manage their wireless home network by:
* Adding multiple Internet-capable devices to the network
* Setting parental controls for each computer or device
* Giving visitors password-protected Internet access on a separate guest network
* Customizing advanced settings and changing the network SSID and password
For the advanced user, Linksys' advanced features are still available through the default IP address (192.168.1.1).
Product Descriptions and Pricing
The new Linksys E-Series line offers a full range of technology options to help users find what works best for them. The new line, including a USB Wireless-N Adapter, is available immediately at Amazon, Staples, Linksys.com, and soon at Best Buy, Target, Wal-Mart and other leading retailers.
Linksys E1000 Wireless-N Router (MSRP: $79.99)
* Wirelessly connects computers and other devices at transfer speeds up to 300 Mbps
* Uses four Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) ports to directly connect wired devices
* Ideal for general wireless Internet usage and home office productivity
Linksys E2000 Advanced Wireless-N Router (MSRP: $119.99)
* Includes four Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps) ports for faster file sharing with other Gigabit-enabled devices, including computers, hard drives, and servers
* Features selectable dual-band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) technology to help avoid interference, allowing for smoother file transfers and media streaming
* Ideal for connecting computers, gaming consoles, Internet-enabled HDTVs and Blu-Ray players, and other wireless devices at transfer speeds up to 300 Mbps
Linksys E2100L Advanced Wireless-N Router with Linux OS: (MSRP: $119.99)
* Utilizes the Linux operating system for flexibility to customize the network
* Uses four Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) ports to directly connect wired devices
* Built-in UPnP AV Media Server streams entertainment content to an Xbox 360, PS3 or other compatible device
* USB port provides connectivity to storage devices for file sharing at home or over the Internet
Linksys E3000 High-Performance Wireless-N Router (Dual-Band): (MSRP: $179.99)
* Features simultaneous dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), high-performance Wireless-N technology for smoother HD video streaming, wireless gaming and file transfers
* Includes four Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps) ports for faster file sharing with other USB port and provides connectivity to storage devices for file sharing at home or over the Internet
* Built-in UPnP AV media server enables streaming of entertainment content to an Xbox 360, PS3 or other compatible device
* Optimized for entertainment, ideal for connecting computers, gaming consoles, Internet-enabled HDTVs and Blu-Ray players, and other wireless devices at transfer speeds up to 300 Mbps
Linksys AE1000 High-Performance Wireless-N USB Adapter: (MSRP: $69.99)
* Provides Wireless-N capability to Windows desktop computers and laptops
* Selectable dual-band wireless-N - connects to either a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz wireless network
* Includes USB extension cable and adapter base for improved wireless connectivity - ideal for hard-to-reach USB ports
Follow Us:
* Become a Cisco Linksys Facebook fan: www.facebook.com/ciscolinksys
* Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/officiallinksys
* Watch us on YouTube: www.youtube.com/officiallinksys
* Cisco Consumer Blogs: http://blogs.cisco.com/consumer
11n with internal antennas is a bad idea. I don't need a spaceship-looking router. I need range.
@CompleteShortStories
I get excellent range from my Airport in my 3 story home. Full signal everywhere. If you need extended range than you should not get a consumer router. AKA anything that says Linksys on it.
@CompleteShortStories
"I don't need a spaceship-looking router [car]. I need range."
That's what people said about the Prius, then they bought them in droves.
@NHAnimator you DO realize that people buy priuses because of their range, right?
@clexman This one says Linksys E3000. You win.
@NHAnimator And drive them into walls because they can't stop...
@clexman i just moved into an apt that's 259sqft - will this work in there?
@owen66
apt = closet?
@owen66
I'm pretty sure that you don't have room for a router.
@CompleteShortStories
I have my Wireless-N Netgear WNR834Bv2
And I love the controls http://i40.tinypic.com/352qbli.png
I'm on the second floor, and the router's in my room, but when I'm in the kitchen on 54mbps, I get 1-2 bars, 130mbps gets me a little over 3 and 270mbps gets me almost full. Only issue is, only my iPod touch gets spotty at 270mbps, so I keep it at 130mbps. Best thing is, it was only 70$ when I got mine at wal mart, probably only 50 or so now, since they're rolling out newer models.
@CompleteShortStories
Wooooot. Another Cisco article. Is it because Cisco has the iPhone name registered too?
@CompleteShortStories
They're really not that bad. I have the WRT610N that has the same body shape (with internal antennas). Dual-band router, computer runs on 5GHz range, and Xbox 360 runs on 2.4GHz (G) range. My computer, according to the router's stat page, connects with 86% signal at 204Mbps, and X360 72% at 32mbps. Both are about 50-60ft away, going through 5 walls.. So, the internal antennas aren't that bad. On top of that, if you still find problems with it, DD-WRT allows you boost the antenna power..
@CompleteShortStories I have a friend that just bought the $80 one, it comes with two antennas.
FYI, if you make your router name to long it will bog the router down to the point where internet and file transfers are @ 50kbps... weird
@clexman
I am confused, you say don't get a consumer router but you did. How is an Airport a pro networking device.
@CompleteShortStories "I need range." Agreed, specially in countries where walls are actually made with stone or bricks instead of plastic, wood or cardboard like in the US.
@motorolo Maybe that is in the US, in EUROPE priuses range is even below standard, mate
@CompleteShortStories that cats a cisco need some updates on what year it is!
Doesn't anyone double-check their writing anymore? It's announced, not announces.
@johnwin Aren't people allowed to make mistakes anymore? Perhaps next time you could keep this in mind, or at least be constructive in some form.
@johnwin
This is a blogsite, I don't care how many grammatical mishaps there are as long as I get the news...
Need more affordable wireless-N routers....
Cheap router + cheap wireless-N access point = cheap wireless-N. :)
@Midnitte
I have my Wireless-N Netgear WNR834Bv2
And I love the controls http://i40.tinypic.com/352qbli.png
I'm on the second floor, and the router's in my room, but when I'm in the kitchen on 54mbps, I get 1-2 bars, 130mbps gets me a little over 3 and 270mbps gets me almost full. Only issue is, only my iPod touch gets spotty at 270mbps, so I keep it at 130mbps. Best thing is, it was only 70$ when I got mine at wal mart, probably only 50 or so now, since they're rolling out newer models.
@Midnitte
To give you an idea of how far apart from the kitchen I am, here's a pic of my house:
http://i41.tinypic.com/nvuy4y.png
Also, keep in mind, that other routers I've used in this house (linksys and a d-link), have trouble going through the walls and floors, I don't know why, but the house is from late 1800's, and something in the walls/floors is blocking most wireless signals.
haha yea i have ther 610n bought it for like 250 wish i spent a little less but it works great just not as good as i would like it to work
fake Donald Melanson says: sure the range may be limited due to the internal antenna, but at least it's "purty" and that's what matters.
Yeah....no antenna is sorta fail, need range.
@Plazmic Flame
You mean no external antenna. It still uses them, they are inside it. I don't see the problem, unless you wanted to replace the antennas.
(waves hand) I need a spaceship-looking router. I don't need range
I am looking at getting a Netgear WNDR3700 vs. Cisco WRT610N, with the Netgear as the favorite ATM. I am not sure this new batch has a better router.
@GaryG Also take a look at the Apple AirPort Extreme Base Station.
It's a Simultaneous Dual-Band wireless-N router for $179.00 but if your a student you can get it for $159.00
http://store.apple.com/us/product/MC340LL/A/AirPort-Extreme?fnode=MTY1NDA0Mg&mco=MTMzNzU2NDk
@savageracer
The WNDR3700 is considerably better than the Apple AirPort Extreme:
http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/index.php?option=com_wireless&Itemid=200
Eh, haven't had too many good experiences with Lynksys, perhaps one day, but my history with them will keep me with my Netgear router.
@JoshUng Odd, I've had just the opposite experience. Netgear devices for me personally have been about as reliable as D-Link or Airlink101. But that is just my personal experience.
@HektikLyfe Oh I know what happened! You got a knock-off product called Lynksys. Make sure your product is Linksys and has the Cisco logo. Be sure to verify your purchase and register it to confirmed that you don't get ripped off in the future!
@HektikLyfe No, I just spell poorly. I know my problems with Linksys don't reflect necessarily on the entire line, but I had a problem and so did my parents, we both have none with Netgear. I know 2 out of how many they sell is a small percentage, but its enough for me to at the least wait and see before I get any more of their products.
@HektikLyfe
Genius. Funny shit. =)
@JoshUng
The only recurring problem that I've had with Linksys routers is that they run fairly hot and have no fans. I used to have one in my server closet (literal closet, not a server rack) and it burned out at some point during the summer.
I got a refurbed WRT110N for $30 with shipping. Apart from the bad designing (overheats and drops connection), its a pretty sweet deal. And if you turn it upside down (like a turtle on its back :P), even that problem goes away.
Cisco honestly ruined Linksys, with trying to make all their routers nice and stylish now instead of fitting them with external antennas to provide greater range.
I'll stick with my far superior D-Link DIR-655 with built-in QoS ability.
@Prevacator
This.
I'm over Linksys for good.
@Prevacator
Thirded. For exactly 80$, I bought a gigabit switch and that d-link wireless N router and connected 2 different rooms with both wireless and wired functionality. I have a stack of 4 linksys routers (the old kind that stacked) as an homage to linksys before cisco ruined them.
@Prevacator
Eeeeeeexactly. This alien saucer design they're entire lineup to is just one hot, connection dropping mess. From their bargain basement G line, all the way up to their gigabit + dual band flagship model, the connection is dropped anytime the user tries to do anything even remotely bandwidth intensive. If you want to learn new and interesting ways of insulting a product, take a few minutes to visit the tech support forums.
@Prevacator - I loved my DIR-655 until recently. It tries to connect to Bsecure.com on it's own even though the Securespot service is disabled. Consequently, it blocks all internet access - I guess you could call that the ultimate firewall, but I would prefer to have a little access.... Looking for a replacement now - neither D-Link or BSecure can resolve the issue. Looks like a class action lawsuit is in the works.... too bad, been the best router I have owned to date.
I don't know if other ISP's do this but for Verizon FiOS they give you the modem built into the wireless router. While convenient I don't want to have to relay it through newer technology. I wish they would separate the modem from the router. Anybody else have this problem?
@Yhippa
many ISPs do this. and most of their hardware is garbage. you might be able to setup their included (and in many cases required) hardware in bridge mode. call your tech support for directions.
this turns their hardware into a simple modem and allows you to configure any router you want to handle your network, etc.
@Yhippa
It still has ethernet ports, doesn't it? Disable the built in Wireless access point and plug another in through ethernet. Problem Solved.
@Yhippa
I agree, call them and see if they'll run you through setting up the box they gave you for bridge mode. This is what I did with my DSL set up. I've got a cisco router running dd-wrt firmware (mostly to see how much traffic I have going across my WAN port each day) doing pretty much everything that box did plus more.
@Yhippa
You may be able to google a help guide if you search on your modem's model number. The DSL modem that I have from Verizon was initially setup as a router (only 1 ethernet port on it), but I was able to put it in bridge mode after about 30 minutes of setup (including finding a useful doc to explain how to do it). I can't wait to get Comcast within the next month... even if they throttled me into oblivion, it would still be 10x faster than Verizon's DSL.
next is 11x?