Netgear announces WNR3500L open source router
Netgear launched the RangeMax Wireless-N Gigabit Router with USB (WNR3500L).
The router is designed to serve as a open source Linux platform supporting a wide variety of applications created by multiple development partners and the dedicated open source community.
The most popular free, open source Linux-based firmware – DD-WRT, OpenWRT and Tomato – are also available on the router, making it easier for users to develop a wide variety of applications.
It features a 480MHz MIPS 74K CPU core with embedded hardware acceleration and incorporates 8 MB of flash memory and 64 MB of RAM, enough to run even business-class applications. It features five 10/100/1000 (one WAN port and four LAN) Ethernet ports with auto-sensing technology with high WAN to LAN speeds in excess of 350 Mbps. It incorporates an 802.11n access point with a wireless repeater mode to extend range. The three internal Metamaterial antennas provide enhanced wireless range and reliable connections.
In addition to its Gigabit Ethernet ports, the WNR3500L router includes a USB 2.0 host port for USB networked storage and for developing other custom applications, including remote access, DLNA/UPnP Media Server support, and USB modem support for 3G/4G/WiMax high-speed cellular connections.
The router protects the network from intruders via a double firewall and Denial-of-service attack prevention. The wireless connection is secured with support for WPA, WPA2-PSK, while Push “N’ Connect using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) enables users to add computers to the network quickly and securely.
Netgear is also introducing a Development Partner Program that already includes several software application vendors who are creating custom applications for the WNR3500L router that Netgear customers can download and enjoy. Companies include:
- BigFoot Networks – network optimized online gaming
- Leaf Networks – easy remote access
- Paragon Software – high-speed USB NTFS read/writes
- Sputnik – full-featured hotspot solutions
The has an MSRP in the U.S. of $139.99.