Labs

It might seem expensive,but Netgear's RangeMaxNext has a GigabitEthernet switch built in. This lets you transfer data over your wired network up to 10 times faster than with standard 10/100 Ethernet. If you have network storage connected to your router and/or some PCs connected by Ethernet cables rather than WiFi,

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it's a bonus.

Installation was very easy thanks to a CD-based setup wizard that helps you configure your Internet connection and set up a secure wireless network. Strangely for such an expensive router, there's no QoS built in. Web filtering, by address and keyword, is useful if you've got kids that you want to protect online.

With our Centrino laptop, the Netgear gave the fastest speeds in the group. 21.51Mbit/sec at one metre was impressive, and 15.08Mbit/sec at 25 metres was superb. This should mean you always get a strong signal throughout your home.

Switching to Netgear's WN511T CardBus adaptor (around £38), the RangeMax couldn't quite match the Buffalo, but 52.09Mbit/sec at 1m and 16.47Mbit/sec at 25m were still strong.

If you've got wired PCs and network storage, the Gigabit Ethernet switch is useful; otherwise, the cheaper Buffalo is a better buy overall.