This dual-band access point is a perfect addition to an existing 802.11b network for those looking to stretch to the higher bandwidth of 802.11a without invalidating their previous hardware investments. It's also a good alternative for those starting a wireless network with 802.11b adaptors, without having to shell out for a whole fleet of the more expensive 802.11a cards.

The WAB102 worked extremely well, particularly when coupled with the NETGEAR WAB501 dual-band PCMCIA card. Being one of the few 802.11a-capable pieces of hardware submitted and therefore running at 54Mb/s, it's no surprise they did well in our performance tests.

As important as bandwidth is, it's not the whole story.

Nonetheless this access point was one of the easiest to configure and manage and also has large and sturdy antennae.
We made a notation when testing the WAB501 that's short and succinct, and sums the device up perfectly: 'worked instantly'.