During setup, the router auto generates an SSID and passphrase. Your computer doesn't even have to be physically connected to the router you just need a computer with an enabled wireless adapter. You literally click 'Next,' sit back and the router does everything. Setup then offers a step-by-step set up guide that shows you how to physically connect the router. Upon setting up the router and agreeing to the license agreement, the Cisco Connect software checks for any software updates. I can only assume they see it as a glowing, ever-present advertisement, which is annoying. What isn't so apparent is why Cisco doesn't allow users to dim the glowing Cisco logo that's on top of the router and therefore more apt to be seen than the rear LEDs. I can understand a user wanting to do this, especially if they would have the router in a bedroom, where the constant flickering of LED ports light could be annoying when trying to get some sleep. The second new interface feature is the ability to shut off the rear LED lights to the ports on the back. These numbers were on par with results from 's bandwidth test-which were. Cisco's utility measured a speed of 0.66 Mbps down and 0.47 up.

I used the test to measure the speed of my somewhat modest WiMAX-converted to Wi-Fi signal. The latest version of the software has a couple of new features, one of which is an Internet speed test that will measure the speed of the Internet connection. The E4200 ships with the same Cisco Connect software that makes setup and management so easy with other E-series routers such as the Valet Plus. The E4200 has some basic NAS functionality, including performing as a Media or FTP server. There's also a USB port on the back for attaching FAT32, NTFS, and HSF+ storage devices. Unfortunately, there's no official Linux support.įour Gigabit Ethernet ports, a WAN/Internet port, a reset button and a Wi-Fi Protected Setup button comprise the back panel. It's also a cross-platform device that's capable of supporting Windows XP (SP3), Vista (SP1 and above), Windows 7, and Mac OS X Tiger 10.4.11, Leopard 10.5.8 and Snow Leopard 10.6.1. That's pricy, since you can get dual-band routers, like the E3000 for under $100.Ĭisco touts the E4200 as a router designed for today's multi-use, multimedia home networks that have Web-connected TVs, game consoles, iPads, and other bandwidth-gobbling gadgets. With that look comes a premium cost the E4200 lists for $179. Overall, it's an appealing piece of hardware with the look of luxury. The logo glows a soft bluish-white when the router is connected to the Web.

The chassis is encased in a smart, black matte housing which has a sleek strip of silver metal on the top with Cisco's logo embossed on it. The E4200 boasts a gorgeous design and an almost fail-proof setup. Best Hosted Endpoint Protection and Security Software.

Cisco linksys e4200 setup software