Linksys by Cisco WAG320N lacks critical dual band function

ADSL users are restricted when it comes to top-end router hardware. Due to the expense of building in an ADSL modem, routers tend to lack features such as Gigabit Ethernet, and there aren't many dual-band models either.
The Linksys by Cisco WAG320N is one of those rare beasts, but it isn't full-fat dual band.

In fact, it boasts just a single internal radio, which forces you to choose between running it in either 2.4GHz or 5GHz mode.

That, for most purposes, will render the 5GHz mode useless, because even if every laptop you own supports 5GHz, devices such as internet radios, smartphones, printers and Wi-Fi photo frames won't be able to connect.

It's a shame, because the WAG320N shows signs of being a competent home router. It may be primarily an ADSL2+ device, but you can also turn one of its Ethernet ports into a WAN port to support a cable connection.

A USB port allows the sharing of external storage devices, and a media server function allows music, video and photos on an attached drive to be streamed to UPnP devices and players around the network.

Its four Ethernet ports are Gigabit, but that isn't reflected in its performance. We'd expect faster transfers than 92Mbits/sec and 65Mbits/sec from a 300Mbits/sec 5GHz router at close range. And it was slower than the Netgear DGND3300 in our 2.4GHz long-range test.

If you're desperate for a dual-band ADSL router, the Netgear DGND3300 is a better option, although we'd be inclined to opt for a single-band router or combine a modem with a cable router (see Using a cable router with ADSL, page 91).

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