Linksys WRT54GS WiFi router: Pros and Cons
The Linksys WRT54GS (WRT54GS) router released in 2003. It is powered by Broadcom BCM4712 @ 200 MHz chipset, 32 MB of RAM and 8 MB of flash. The G54 router is compatible with IEEE 802.11b/g standards, and the maximum speed that you can get with WRT54GS 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 WRT54GS, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The WRT54GS router operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. It offers decent wireless coverage and works with many devices. Linksys is a well-established brand and has a significant market presence globally.
Linksys WRT54GS specifications
| Brand | Linksys |
|---|---|
| Name | WRT54GS |
| Type | WRT54GS |
| Rating | |
| Launch | 2003 |
Body
| Dimensions | 186 x 48 x 200 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 482 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 BCM4712 @ 200 MHz |
|---|---|
| RAM | 32 MB |
| Flash | 8 MB |
| OS | Linksys |
| Alternative OS | OpenWRT DD-WRT |
| Power supply | 12 V / 1 A |
The Linksys WRT54GS router has a Broadcom BCM4712 @ 200 MHz processor. You cannot expand the router's memory (32 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. Using a custom OS on a router has benefits. But, it also has risks.
OpenWrt has a community that actively develops it. They continuously work on improving its security. The 12 V / 1 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 WRT54GS router is a Fast Ethernet port, not a Gigabit Ethernet.
Wireless
| Antennas | 2 x 2 dBi RP-SMA |
|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz | yes |
| 5 GHz | no |
| 60 GHz | no |
| Standards | IEEE 802.11b/g |
| Class | G54 |
| Speed | 54 Mbps |
| Transmit power | 20 dBm |
| Security | WEP WPA |
| Guest network | no |
This router has 2 x 2 dBi, RP-SMA antennas. Antennas are key parts of wireless routers. They send and receive radio signals to make wireless connections. The router supports the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. If you have a small network with older devices and basic internet needs, an 802.11g router may still be adequate. 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 WRT54GS router doesn't have file-server or print-server functionality.
Administration
| Default IP | 192.168.1.1 |
|---|---|
| Default username | [blank] |
| 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
- OpenWrt compatible
Cons
- 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 WRT54GS photos
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