Introduction

Updated 7/3/2008 - Corrected radio module information.

Updated 10/31/2007 - Corrected processor and switch part numbers. Removed statement about IEEE Draft 2.0 violation.

Linksys almost announced the WRT600N back in January at CES. They decided not to go forward with it at the last minute, but not before exposing it enough to make its existence widely known. D-Link took a similar tack, but instead actually announced its dual-band DIR-855, which is still marked as "Coming Soon" on its website.

Well, last week Linksys finally officially unleashed its dual-band Draft 11n offering and was kind enough to ensure that we got one of the first batch. This makes the 600N the second two-radio simultaneous dual-band draft 11n router available (the currently unavailable Buffalo WZR-AG300NH is the other), which has many potential wireless LAN upgraders chompin' at the bit to spend their money.

The 600N has the same package style as its single-band sibling, the WRT350N, but opts for an all-black look to convey an impression of power and elegance. Figures 1 and 2 detail the front and back panels, but omit mention of the top-of-case "Reserved" button.

Figure 1: WRT600N Front Panel

If previous designs are any indication, this will be used to kick off a Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) session, once Linksys gets around to adding that function in a future firmware update. For now, however, you'll need to use Linksys' EasyLink Advisor application or set up wireless security manually. If you want more about EasyLink Advisor, as well as commentary on other features, see Glenn Fleishman's WRT600N review.

Figure 2: WRT600N Rear Panel

Tags: 802.11n, Linksys, NAS, Router reviews, WiFi, Wireless Reviews,

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