Go to Windows 7 Insider GuideBelkin Wireless G Plus MIMO Router
Manufacturer: Belkin Part number: F5D9230-4
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Belkin Wireless G Plus MIMO Router offers features similar to those of the Belkin Pre-N router but with slower performance. On the upside, it's also less expensive.
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CNET editors' review
Belkin Wireless G Plus MIMO Router price range: $49.99 - $61.38
- Reviewed by: Stephanie Bruzzese
- Edited by: Felisa Yang
- Reviewed on: 12/16/2005
- Released on: 08/01/2005
The good: The Belkin Wireless G Plus MIMO Router supports MIMO technology, has excellent documentation, comes with comprehensive tools and features, and is covered by an unlimited warranty.
The bad: The throughput of Belkin's Wireless G Plus MIMO Router is not as spectacular as its brother's, the Belkin Pre-N router.
The bottom line: The Belkin Wireless G Plus MIMO Router offers features similar to those of the Belkin Pre-N router but with slower performance. On the upside, it's also less expensive.
The Belkin Wireless G Plus MIMO Router is part of Belkin's push to bring the benefits of MIMO to wireless networking while keeping the price tag less than $100. The G Plus MIMO Router incorporates an Airgo Networks True MIMO chipset and antenna (two, as opposed to the three for the Belkin Pre-N router), which theoretically enables the router to pull off extrafast data throughput from far distances. While the G Plus MIMO Router trailed its big brother, the Pre-N router, in CNET Labs' tests, it bested or tied some of its three-antenna MIMO competition, which is impressive considering its low price. The G Plus MIMO Router also excels in other areas, including excellent documentation, an easy setup process, a full-featured configuration tool, and a lifetime warranty. Still, if you can afford the extra cash, Belkin's three-antenna Pre-N MIMO Router offers the same perks with more speed to boot. (And as of November 2005, we've seen street prices for the Pre-N router of less than $100, which makes the choice a no-brainer.)
The Wireless G Plus MIMO Router's design offers both highs and lows. On the upside, its gray-and-black color scheme blends inconspicuously into the background. You can point the two adjustable antennas on top of the unit in the direction of your wireless device, helping to increase your signal strength (the more expensive version has three antennas). Also on top of the router are seven status lights that tell you when you have power, an active wireless connection, and Internet connectivity, as well as when you have devices connected to the four color-coded, well-labeled Ethernet ports on the back edge. Wall-mounting brackets underneath the router allow you to hang it on a wall or ceiling, where it in many cases, it will deliver the greatest strength. On the other hand, keeping the router on your desk means you must lay it flat and consume precious desktop space, since its rounded edges and thin body prevent you from standing it on end.
Belkin does a great job with the Wireless G Plus MIMO Router's documentation and setup. The router ships with both hard and electronic copies of the well-written quick installation and user guides. With the help of clear text instructions and colorful screen shots, the install guide walks you through the simple process of setting up the router and installing the corresponding, browser-based configuration tool. The tool lets you alter the router's ample features, which begin with establishing an SSID as well as WEP or WPA keys. From there, you can perform many other settings adjustments, such as filtering certain MAC addresses, enabling the built-in firewall, placing one of your computers in the DMZ (demilitarized zone) outside of the firewall, and turning on the QoS (quality of service) feature, should you use the router to stream VoIP or multimedia packets.
With its MIMO antenna and chipset, we had high hopes for the Wireless G Plus MIMO Router in CNET Labs' tests, but our hopes were a bit too high. It earned a mediocre 18.2Mbps throughput time at a range of 200 feet, half of the Belkin Pre-N router's 36.4Mbps from the same distance. Once again, the Pre-N router came out on top in mixed-mode throughput, scoring 42.1Mbps to the Wireless G Plus MIMO Router's 27.6Mbps. The Belkin Wireless G Plus MIMO Router fared best in the maximum throughput tests at 43.3Mbps, just under the Pre-N router's 45.7Mbps. Compared to MIMO offerings from other vendors, the G Plus MIMO Router performed decently, tying or besting the more expensive Buffalo router and the Linksys WRT54GX in max and mixed throughput scores. It seems to suffer most in long-range throughput, which is supposed to be one of MIMO's strengths. As other sub-$100 MIMO Routers roll out from other vendors, we'll see how this one's performance stacks up against the competition.
The Wireless G Plus MIMO Router ships with the best service and support coverage we've seen in a wireless router: an unlimited warranty that lasts for as long as you own the device, along with a 24/7 toll-free tech-support line. The company's support Web site isn't as impressive, providing just a handful of general FAQs for the router and an e-mail support form. We wish the site also offered other helpful features, such as the ability to chat live with a tech-support rep and engage other users for help in a forum setting.
(Longer bars indicate better performance)
(Longer bars indicate better performance)
(Longer bars indicate better performance)
User reviews
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Avoid like the plague
by primitivewall on October 10, 2006
Pros: Decent range, easy to configure
Cons: Scandalously unstable
Summary: I've never written a review for a computer product before, but I've had such an awful experience with this router that I had to chime in.
My 9230-4 ...Summary: I've never written a review for a computer product before, but I've had such an awful experience with this router that I had to chime in.
My 9230-4 WiFi connection will go "invisible" -- meaning I can't see it with my computer let alone connect to it -- at least once a day. This requires several manual resets, as seldom does the router keep its connection after the first reset. The problem also occurs, more annoyingly, after remotely applying a new setting to the router. Setup and any configuration changes should thus only be done via the physical ethernet connection. The connection is more stable when not using DHCP (that is, a static private IP), but it doesn't solve the problem entirely.
The 9230-4 is easy enough to configure, but some settings don't take effect right away. After applying a port exception for an application, let's say Skype, for example, I still had connection issues. Same was true of the DMZ.
Range is terrific, but what good does it do you if the router drops your connection? I haven't bought a new one yet, but in meantime, take my advice: save your money.3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Decent router, but unable to update Firmware - thinks it's an N1
by willmcn on January 24, 2007
Pros: Very nicely done setup interface; lots of built-in help; tech support decent though unable to solve problem
Cons: Apparently came with wrong firmware; no ability to set IP based on Mac address
Summary: Purchased based on Belkin's overall company reputation and because my NetGear WGR614 had gotten interminably flakey. As an experienced user I chose to do the manual setup which went ...
Summary: Purchased based on Belkin's overall company reputation and because my NetGear WGR614 had gotten interminably flakey. As an experienced user I chose to do the manual setup which went smoothly and I connected fairly quickly.
The main issue I had was that when I used the Firmware update section of the Setup screen, the "Check for Firmware Update" reported back that an update was available but also seemed to think that that router was a Belkin N1 rather than the "Plus MIMO" model. The link it provided to download the firmware update was bad and there was no apparent way on Belkin's site to download the correct firmware or to even check if there was one for this model.
Tech support was courteous, technically competent and understood the problem but was unable to find a solution and recommended that I call customer service in the morning. My guess is that I'll be taking it back to BestBuy for either a replacement or a different model.
My other negative on this router is the lack of an ability to specify IP addresses based on MAC address, something that my previous NetGear router could do. I use this a lot to force my server and desktkop machine to always have the same IP address but still pickup the DNS servers as provided via DHCP. Since Comcast's DNS servers seem to change frequently, I can't just hardset the information in the netword settings.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Unreliable and slow performance
by IlFactotum on July 1, 2006
Pros: Decent range
Cons: Slow performance all together (wireless AND wired)
Summary: This router is just plain slow. It can take a minute or two to load large sites such as CNET. It also loses a connection to the internet VERY often (...
Summary: This router is just plain slow. It can take a minute or two to load large sites such as CNET. It also loses a connection to the internet VERY often (Both on wired and wireless connections). At first I thought that I either received a dud, needed to update the firmware, or my cable modem was dead, but after testing everything out it turned out to be the router. I returned it and the second one is just as unreliable.
If you are going to be using this router to stream music and movies across your network, or if you're interested in online gaming, please reconsider. If you just want to browse the internet and check e-mail, this router may be tolerable (slow, nonetheless).2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Just a great router!
by jchutch2 on December 29, 2005
Pros: Awesome range. I got a signal and was able to browse 2 blocks from my house during a heavy snow.
Cons: None that I can find.
Summary: I'm a Cisco guy so by default a Linksys guy. I dropped my linksys for this router. Quick easy set up. Built in firewall with no need for configuring. ...
Summary: I'm a Cisco guy so by default a Linksys guy. I dropped my linksys for this router. Quick easy set up. Built in firewall with no need for configuring. All the features I want. I'm very satisfied with this router.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Horrible product from a worse company
by mstarcom on January 12, 2007
Pros: it did not catch on fire
Cons: slow performance, unstable, disgraceful service
Summary: I am a computer / network tech. I picked up model F5D9230-4 to use with Comcast at a client site. After installation is was discovered that the router was unstable. It ...
Summary: I am a computer / network tech. I picked up model F5D9230-4 to use with Comcast at a client site. After installation is was discovered that the router was unstable. It would drop off every 5 minutes, had trouble transferring large files and was very slow. Other routers worked fine on the same line. The router stated that a firmware upgrade was available, so I attempted to upgrade the firmware via the upgrade button. It did not work. I next attempted to locate the firmware on the Belkin site -NOT AVAILABLE. A Google search of "F5D9230-4 firmware" revealed many frustrated customers over many months, also unable to find or upgrade the firmware. The next day I emailed Belkin and they never responded. The following day I called Belkin and was told, "We are not offering any firmware for this router. We can send you a replacement router." Then why the heck don?t they say so on their web site. They know this is frustrating the hell out of people, but just don?t care. I wanted to return the router to Fry?s, but did not have all the original packaging; so I agreed to have them ship a replacement. They told me they needed a credit card in the event that I did not return the defective router. They said my card would not be charged unless I did not return the router within 20 days. I gave them my Visa check card # and within 5 minutes there were 2 charges. 1 for $93.85 and one for $1.
This of course is not the first time I have purchased a defective product. Belkin however has to take the cake for the most inept support. Simply disgraceful. I will never buy another Belkin product and suggest you do the same. Try Linksys, Netgear or D-link instead.
Dave H1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Do not get this one, get a Linksys
by pinhead-2 on January 1, 2007
Pros: Slim thats about it
Cons: where should I start. Wireless speed was real bad on one puter 65 feet away range supposed to 1000 feet
Summary: The one Puter that was hard wired to router worked great till I tried to change channels.Thats when puter that was hard wired to router lost connection and than ...
Summary: The one Puter that was hard wired to router worked great till I tried to change channels.Thats when puter that was hard wired to router lost connection and than you had to Redo everything. Was on the phone with Belkin for 1 hour and they could not get it going. They told me that the hardware was damaged and take it back for another and I did. Second one did same thing so I called Belin again went thru same thing and it would not work!! My wireless B Linksys worked better than the Belkin. So I went back and got a Linksys and it works GREAT. Stick to what you know what works. I was talked out of the Linksys for the Belkin. Boy what a mistake
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Excellent performance
by skipper8074 on August 8, 2006
Pros: Painless configuration and easy to use web-page adminsitration
Cons: None noted so far
Summary: Signal strength is excellent anywhere from basement to upstairs in a 50 year old house of lathe & plaster construction ( router located on first floor ). It does what it needs ...
Summary: Signal strength is excellent anywhere from basement to upstairs in a 50 year old house of lathe & plaster construction ( router located on first floor ). It does what it needs to do with a minimum amount of pain. Encryption is easy to setup.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Gives great signal at long distances.
by Qwerty48 on October 26, 2005
Pros: Easy to set up with all my laptops.
Cons: Still new waiting for standard protocol.
Summary: I have tried other brands but this one is by far the best for distance and speed.
Summary: I have tried other brands but this one is by far the best for distance and speed.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great router for the casual internet user, but lacking
by redsuperhero on December 8, 2009
Pros: Works perfectly for online browsing wired or wireless.
Cons: Belkins G Plus MIMO will cut out its connection for brief periods (less than a second) which is unnoticable if looking at your email, but will boot you from any online gaming session. Which has become more frustrating the longer I have it.
Summary: Judge what kind of internet usage you will need. Wired performance is exactly the same as wireless. If you're a gamer or using video conferencing, etc. buy something else.
Summary: Judge what kind of internet usage you will need. Wired performance is exactly the same as wireless. If you're a gamer or using video conferencing, etc. buy something else.
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Drops connection all the time, worthless!
by ChristinaE03 on May 24, 2009
Pros: No pros I can think of.
Cons: This router is very unreliable, it drops connection all the time, and you are unable to download anything or watching streaming video. Worthless as a router, don't waste your money.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Belkin
- Part number: F5D9230-4
- Description: Share music, movies and data files among all your computers with wireless convenience. Everyone can get in on the high-speed action - ideal for homes and small office settings. Belkin's new wireless products are based on Airgo Networks' True MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antenna and chipset design. Wireless G Plus MIMO is a smart radio technology that enhances the 802.11g wireless standard by providing increased speed, coverage, and reliability for wireless systems. Ideal for homes with multiple wireless-enabled computers, Wireless G Plus MIMO provides a wider coverage area for downloading music from the Internet, sharing photos, and gaming online. Its design helps combat distortion and interference that lets the Belkin products send data streams farther and more reliably.
General
- Device Type Wireless router
- Form Factor External
- Form Factor External
- Enclosure Color Gray
Networking
- Integrated Switch 4-port switch
- Data Transfer Rate 108 Mbps
- Connectivity Technology Wired, Wireless
- Line Coding Format CCK, BPSK, QPSK, DBPSK, DQPSK, 16 QAM, 64 QAM, 1024 QAM
- Data Link Protocol Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Fast Ethernet, IEEE 802.11g+
- Spread Spectrum Method DSSS, OFDM
- Switching Protocol Ethernet
- Network / Transport Protocol PPTP, PPPoE, TCP/IP, UDP/IP, IPX/SPX, AppleTalk, NetBEUI/NetBIOS
- Max Range Indoors / Outdoors: : 1000 ft
- Selectable Channels Qty 11
- Status Indicators Power, Port status
- Max Range Open Space 1000 ft
- Frequency Band 2.4 GHz
- Routing Protocol Static IP routing
- Features NAT support, DHCP support, VPN passthrough, Firewall protection, True MIMO technology, MAC address filtering, Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI)
- Compliant Standards IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Wi-Fi CERTIFIED
Communications
- Type None
Expansion / Connectivity
- Expansion Slot(s) Total (Free) None
- Expansion Slots Total (Free) None
- Interfaces 4 x Network - Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX - RJ-45, 1 x Network - Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-T4 - RJ-45 ( WAN )
- Port(s) Total (Free) / Connector Type 4 Network Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX:RJ-45, 1 Network Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-T4:RJ-45
Cable(s) / Peripheral(s)
- Cable(s) included 1 Network cable External
Modem
- Modem Type None
Miscellaneous
- Cables (Details) 1 x Network cable
- Compliant Standards CE, FCC, C-Tick
- Encryption Algorithm AES, TKIP, WPA-PSK, 64-bit WEP, 128-bit WEP
- Microsoft Certifications Works with Windows Vista
Power
- Power Supply / Device Power adapter External
- Power Device Power adapter - External
Software / System Requirements
- Software Included Drivers & Utilities
- OS Required Apple MacOS X, Apple MacOS 9.x, Microsoft Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP
Warranty
- Service / Support Details Limited warranty Lifetime
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature 32 °F
- Max Operating Temperature 131 °F
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support Limited lifetime warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - Lifetime
CNET Labs' Benchmarks
- CNET Labs long-range tests (in Mbps) 18.2
- CNET Labs maximum throughput tests (at 10 feet, in Mbps) 43.3
- CNET Labs maximum throughput tests with mixed 802.11b/g and draft N, MIMO clients (at 10 feet, in Mbps) 27.6
Manufacturer info
- Belkin
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Belkin products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.belkin.com/
- Address:
501 West Walnut Street, Compton, CA 90220 - Phone: 1-800-223-5546
