WiFiRanger Intelligent Mobile Router Hands-On Review |
| Thursday, 17 March 2011 | |
WiFiRanger Intelligent Mobile Router Hands-On ReviewThe WiFiRanger allows users to utilize just about any source of internet:
Besides the array of types of internet connections the WiFiRanger supports, what really makes the WiFiRanger unique is the way it handles the connections. The WiFiRanger is set up to automatically connect to an ethernet connection, open WiFi hotspot, or USB modem with no manual setup needed in most cases. Upon powering on the router, the WiFiRanger will search for connections in that order: first, it will check to see if an active WAN connection is available, then it will search for open WiFi hotspots, then it will check for a USB modem. Most impressive is the manner in which it connects to open WiFi hotspots - unlike any other router or wireless bridge, the WiFiRanger features a unique "ranging" functionality (hence its name!) which allows the router to scan for available networks, analyze the performance of each one, and connect to the best option. The rest of the WiFiRanger's setup and functionality is similarly simple and unrivaled by any other router or wireless bridge we've encountered. BlueMesh has managed to create a router that virtually anyone can use, without skimping on features. Features: The WiFiRanger's ability to connect to external wireless networks is likely to be one of the most popular features, but that's not all the WiFiRanger offers:
Design: The WiFiRanger is lightweight (1/2 pound), and while it's not "travel size" (its dimensions are 6.38" x 5.2" x 1.18"), it's certainly compact enough to fit anywhere from an office to an RV. the WiFiRanger (center) is not as small as the CTR500 (top), but is more compact than the MBR1000 (bottom) The top of the WiFiRanger features 8 LED lights, which indicate the status of the router (power on, LAN connections, etc): top view of the WiFiRanger All of the WiFiRanger's ports are located on the rear of the unit: rear view of the WiFiRanger One important thing to note is that the WiFiRanger's single USB port (where you'll connect your 3G or 4G mobile broadband device) is positioned vertically, and it can be a tight squeeze for some of the larger modems. We highly recommend that anyone planning to use a USB modem with the WiFiRanger also purchase the optional 3' USB extension cable, which will eliminate any concerns about fitting into the tight space and also allow you to position your modem in a location where it can obtain a better signal. the WiFiRanger with a 598U 3G modem attached Setting up and using the WiFiRanger: BlueMesh designed the WiFiRanger with ease of use in mind, and this is evident from the moment you unbox the router. Basic setup instructions are included on the inside of the box, and these simple steps are likely to be all most users need (although a full manual can be downloaded from WiFiRanger's website). the inside of the WiFiRanger's box As previously noted, no setup at all is needed for most connections - simply connect your ethernet cable for a WAN connection, plug in your USB modem, or allow the router to "range" for open WiFi networks and the WiFiRanger will handle the rest; within a few minutes you'll see the "internet status" LED light up and you'll be ready to surf the web! WiFi-as-WAN users in particular will be thrilled with the hands-free setup. To change settings and options within the router, users can navigate their browsers to the WiFiRanger's intuitive web admin portal, called the "control panel". The easy to navigate control panel (web admin) makes it simple to make changes and edit settings There are a variety of settings WiFiRangers may want to tinker with, including:
All of these options - and more - are easy to locate and configure within the control panel, but to make things even easier for our customers, 3Gstore has created a custom tip sheet with helpful instructions and pointers with all of the WiFiRangers we ship! BlueMesh's efforts to keep things as simple as possible for users extends to the firmware upgrade functionality. Users never have to manually check to see if firmware updates are available - upon boot up, the router automatically checks to see if any updates are available; if there is a newer firmware version available a "click here to upgrade" link will appear in the upper right side of the control panel. Wrapup: The WiFiRanger's support for so many internet sources and its intelligent failover functionality is likely to make it a hit with everyone from office users to RVers. There is no easier or more affordable way to take advantage of every internet connection you have access to, from your ethernet WAN at home to campground WiFi on the road! What we love about the WiFiRanger and WiFiRanger Pro:
What we wish it had:
The WiFiRanger and WiFiRanger Pro are ON ALE NOW at 3Gstore! Save an additional $20 if you're also signing up for a Sprint or Verizon 2-year contract! All WiFiRangers purchased from 3Gstore include our exclusive tip sheet to help you get your router set up, and all customers have access to our esteemed technical support Related links:
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| Last Updated ( Monday, 08 August 2011 ) |
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