Linksys WRT54GX4 WiFi router: Pros and Cons
The Linksys WRT54GX4 (WRT54GX4) router released in 2005. It is powered by Realtek RTL8651B @ 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 WRT54GX4 is 54 Mbps. The router has 1 x 10/100 Mbps WAN and 4 x 10/100 Mbps LAN ports.
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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 WRT54GX4, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The WRT54GX4 router operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. It offers decent wireless coverage and works with many devices. Linksys places a strong emphasis on network security.
Linksys WRT54GX4 specifications
| Brand | Linksys |
|---|---|
| Name | WRT54GX4 |
| Type | WRT54GX4 |
| Rating | |
| Launch | 2005 |
Body
| Dimensions | 140 x 140 x 36 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 417 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. If you plan to mount your router on a wall or ceiling, the weight can affect the mounting process. It also affects the type of mounting hardware needed.
System
| Chipset | Realtek RTL8651B @ 200 MHz |
|---|---|
| RAM | 32 MB |
| Flash | 8 MB |
| OS | Linksys |
| Power supply | 12 V / 1 A |
The Linksys WRT54GX4 router has a Realtek RTL8651B @ 200 MHz processor. The 32 MB of RAM enables the router to handle multiple tasks and processes concurrently. Flash memory retains its data even when the router is off. This allows the router to keep its firmware and settings across reboots. Linksys often releases firmware updates. They improve the router's features, security, and bugs. They also add new features. 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 |
Like many modern routers, the Linksys WRT54GX4 supports many features and tech. They improve your network's connectivity and security. 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 WRT54GX4 router is a Fast Ethernet port, not a Gigabit Ethernet.
Wireless
| Antennas | 3 x 3 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 3 x 3 dBi, RP-SMA antennas. Antennas are key parts of wireless routers. They send and receive radio signals to make wireless connections. This router is 2.4 GHz capable. The 2.4GHz band refers to the portion of the radio spectrum between 2.400 and 2.4835 gigahertz. The 802.11g or Wireless-G operates in the 2.4 GHz band. It provides faster data transfer at up to 54 Mbps. 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 WRT54GX4 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
- none
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 WRT54GX4 photos
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