D-Link Refreshes Xtreme N Line with DIR-825 Wireless Router - Problems and Improvements
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There is one nit to pick with SharePort: Currently the technology only works
with PCs that must run a small piece of client software to access the attached
device. A nice improvement would be the ability to use Windows shares natively
to access attached devices. Perhaps D-Link could integrate Samba or some other
network share technology into the device to eliminate the need for an additional
client.
Another important feature is the addition of Gigabit Ethernet ports to the
DIR-825. The unit sports four of those ports and monitors the power
requirements of wired connections to reduce the power needed. Although a little
on the gimmicky side, the reduced power consumption aspect should appeal to the
green crowd that does not want to sacrifice performance for energy savings.
The combination of Gigabit Ethernet and 802.11n technology helps make the
unit a good performer and promises the ability to stream high-definition video
and high-quality audio. High-bandwidth applications such as those are further
enhanced by the implementation of QOS (quality of service) technology, which
prioritizes traffic. D-Link's QOS goes one step further by segmenting wireless
traffic, offering high-bandwidth applications over 802.11a, while relegating
slower traffic to 802.11g. A nifty feature if one can use it—after all, it does
require wireless clients to have support for both 802.11a and 802.11g.
Of course, solution providers can expect to find all of the expected
features on the device, ranging from encryption to dynamic DNS (Domain Name
System) support, leaving very little more to mention about the device.
One area that has been of concern with D-Link products is quality. Many have
questioned the quality of the company's devices, along with its technical
support services. While the DIR-825 sports plastic construction, the product's
fit and finish seem to be quite good. Ample air vents should help to control heat
generated, while an automated startup CD should reduce tech support calls.
Although it will take time to determine if the DI-825 can withstand the rigors
of small business use, early indications are positive. Unfortunately, the
company only offers a one-year warranty on the product. A longer or lifetime
warranty would show that D-Link is willing to back its quality initiatives.
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