TP-Link TD-W8950ND 150Mbps Wireless N ADSL2+ Router

An all-in-one ADSL2+ modem and wireless router that represents great value for money

Good value for money is often the first term that comes to mind when starting a TP-Link review. While that might be because we lack the imagination to come up with anything better than cliches for opening lines, it's also because it's true. The TP-Link TD-W8950ND is an all-in-one networking solution that features an ADLS2+ modem, a router, a 4-port 10/100 Ethernet switch and an 802.11n Lite wireless access point. The best part is that you can buy it for $60-$70 if you shop around.

The TP-Link TD-W8950ND should appeal to anyone who just wants a basic all-in-one modem/router in order to share a fast ADSL2+ connection and to transfer files wirelessly between computers. It looks nice, it doesn't have blindingly bright LEDs, its power adapter is small, and it has one relatively big external, removable antenna. However, it does require a little bit of know-how to set it up properly.

The modem can't detect ADSL2+ connection settings automatically, so before you start the Internet setup process (using the modem's Quick Setup), you'll need to know not only your username and password, but also the type of connection (PPPoE for most of us) and the VPI and VCI values your ISP uses. The default values for the VPI and VCI are 0 and 35, respectively. For our ISP, iiNet, the VPI value had to be changed to 8. Other inexpensive modem/routers that we've reviewed, such as Buffalo's AirStation WBMR-HP-GN, only require you to know the type of connection.

TP-Link TD-W8950ND 150Mbps Wireless N ADSL2+ Router

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