Linksys WRT51AB router review
The Linksys WRT51AB (WRT51AB) router released in 2002. It is powered by Broadcom BCM4702 @ 125 MHz chipset, 16 MB of RAM and 4 MB of flash. The G54 router is compatible with IEEE 802.11a/b standards, and the maximum speed that you can get with WRT51AB is 54 Mbps. The router has 1 x 10/100 Mbps WAN and 4 x 10/100 Mbps LAN ports.
Table of Contents
Our personal experiences and opinions form the basis of this article. We aimed to share insights on a topic, and we hoped others would find it useful and inspirational. The specs below rely on official manufacturer data, but we also consider user reviews. If you noticed any mistakes or missing details about the Linksys WRT51AB, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The WRT51AB router operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. It offers decent wireless coverage and works with many devices. Linksys offers good customer support, including firmware updates, documentation, and technical assistance.
Linksys WRT51AB specifications
| Brand | Linksys |
|---|---|
| Name | WRT51AB |
| Type | WRT51AB |
| Rating | |
| Launch | 2002 |
Body
| Dimensions | 186 x 48 x 175 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 400 g |
The dimensions and design of a router can impact its cooling capabilities. Routers with larger dimensions may have more space for internal cooling mechanisms. The weight of router is not typically a critical factor for most home or office setups.
System
| Chipset | Broadcom BCM4702 @ 125 MHz |
|---|---|
| RAM | 16 MB |
| Flash | 4 MB |
| OS | Linksys |
| Power supply | 5 V / 2.5 A |
The Linksys WRT51AB router has a Broadcom BCM4702 @ 125 MHz processor. You cannot expand the router's memory (16 MB). When choosing a router, it is important to consider the RAM specifications. A larger flash memory allows for more space to store configuration backups. Linksys often releases firmware updates. They improve the router's features, security, and bugs. They also add new features. The 5 V / 2.5 A PSU provides power to the router. If it breaks, you can replace it with a new one.
Network
| Protocols | IPv4 |
|---|---|
| LAN ports | 4 x 10/100 Mbps |
| WAN ports | 1 x 10/100 Mbps |
| Mobile network | no |
| VPN support | no |
The router supports many networking standards. It ensures compatibility with different devices and systems. The IPv4 is the fourth iteration of the Internet Protocol (IP). It is the most widely used version of IP on the internet today. The WAN port on the WRT51AB router is a Fast Ethernet port, not a Gigabit Ethernet.
Wireless
| Antennas | 2 x 5 dBi RP-SMA |
|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz | yes |
| 5 GHz | no |
| 60 GHz | no |
| Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b |
| Class | G54 |
| Speed | 54 Mbps |
| Transmit power | 18 dBm |
| Security | WEP |
| Guest network | no |
This router has 2 x 5 dBi, RP-SMA antennas. Antennas are key parts of wireless routers. They send and receive radio signals to make wireless connections. Many IoT devices, smart home devices, and older Wi-Fi devices mainly use the 2.4 GHz band. The top speed, 54 Mbps, is the highest data rate the router can reach. It's the theoretical limit in perfect conditions. WEP was the first Wi-Fi security protocol. But it is now seen as weak and easy to hack.
Connectivity
| USB ports | no |
|---|---|
| Print server | no |
| File server | no |
The WRT51AB router doesn't have file-server or print-server functionality.
Administration
| Default IP | 192.168.1.1 |
|---|---|
| Default username | admin |
| Default password | admin |
Changing the password often is a good security practice. It protects your network and devices from unauthorized access. Changing the default password improves your router's security. It reduces the risk of unauthorized individuals controlling your network.
Pros and Cons
Every router, including this Linksys one, has its good sides and not-so-good sides. Let's take a closer look at both to get a full understanding of what this router can do. We'll talk about what it does well and also where it could use some improvements. Just remember, this is just what I think, and you might see things differently.
Pros
- lightweight
Cons
- insufficient memory
- insufficient flash
- lack of Gigabit LAN
- Non-gigabit WAN port
- missing Wi-Fi 6 support
- lacks Wi-Fi 5 compatibility
- reduced Wi-Fi bandwidth
- incompatible with WPA3
- missing WPS support
- no USB connectivity
Linksys WRT51AB photos
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