Networking hardware has the reputation of almost always being serious, plain and boring when it comes to design and aesthetics. Afterall, once the network is all set up and ready to go, you don’t really bother to keep looking at it. Asus decided to go againts that particular idea with their Pocket 4-port Router WL-530G, a refreshing concept for networking hardware.
One of the Smaller Access Point
The WL-530G is quite literally one of the smallest wireless access points we’ve come across, with the exception of the ASUS WL-330. The WL-530G has the distinction of not only supporting 802.11g transfer rates of up to 54Mbps but also supporting both wireless and wired connections. A total of four Ethernet connectors are built into the WL-530G, an amazing feat considering the size of the unit. Of course, like all router hardware, external power is needed for operation, and as such the WL-530G makes use of power adapter. The adaptor is designed in such a way that you can swap out the connectors to suit the country you’re in, removing the need for travel adaptor. The adaptor accepts voltages from 110V to 240V, making it useble wordwide.
| Coupled with the small size of the WL-530G, the package is especially suitable for travelling businessmen. For wireless connectivity, an omni directional antenna is provided in the box which is removable for convenient storage. To monitor the operational status of the WL-530G, a set of indicator LEDs are built-in. |
Built In NAT, DHCP and Firmware Upgradeable
The WL-530G can be set to either AP or router mode depending on your preference. A Network Address Translation (NAT) firewall and DHCP are standard features of the WL-530G. Changing the settings of the WL-530G is also very simple and is done via web browser interface. Like all routers, the WL-530G has upgradeable firmware, though the device incorporates firmware restoration functionality to help rescue your device should the firmware upgrade process fail. Installation and setup is simple matter, and is complemented by a reasonably thorough set of documentation provided by ASUS.
Value for Money
Overall, the Asus WL-530G is very impressive indeed. It’s got just about all the functions every other wireless AP router has, but in a form factor many times smaller than the competition. The WL-530G not only look good with its black and silver exterior, but it’s solidly built as well. This WL-530G is reasonably good value for money given the functions and features available.
[tags]Asus, Router, Access Point[/tags]
