Follow Up--LINKSYS Router

I closed yesterday's report with this comment: "The only issue is that it takes a Wintel to update the router's firmware." Fortunately, NOT SO as many readers pointed out. Most referred me to MacTFTP Client, an easy to use shareware tool by Kem Tekinay. Gary Early and Mel Patrick suggested Tim Higgins' web site which explains how to use MacTFTP and an alternative using Apple's Applet Runner (a part of MacOS Runtime for Java) if the router has firmware v1.2.2 or later. Both are easy to use after reading Tim Higgins' instructions. His website has lots of other information about the 1-port and 4-port LINKSYS router.

One reader commented that Mac support from LINKSYS is virtually non-existent despite the manual's extensive support listing. LINKSYS only says that the router will work with a Mac and that's it. I haven't checked out LINKSYS support myself but the router is so simple to use and update that no support beyond Tim Higgins' web site may be needed.

Finally, several readers provided tips on inexpensive 10/100baseTX switches. The 5-port LINKSYS 10/100baseTX switch is available for $45 and $49 from Onvia.Com and Outpost.Com respectively.

Todd Bangerter recommended "...a Compex miniswitch. 8-port 10/100, full duplex, auto-negotiation, 4K MAC address table (which should be plenty for your small network). I've been using it since I bought mine in May, and it's been great. Completely plug-and-play, and much improved throughput in file transfer tests comparing the switch and my old 10Base-T hub. And it's really cheap, $77, at Buy.Com. And use this Buy.com coupon for an extra $10 off (expires 9/19). If you want more information, Compex's website is www.cpx.com."

The Compex looks great but I ordered the LINKSYS 5-port switch from Outpost.Com for $49.99 after a $20 rebate and free overnight shipping.

Mel Patrick offered this additional tip, "TimBukTu Express is the preferred method of moving files around on the LAN side of things since it's two lightyears faster than Appletalk and file sharing."