Windows 7: Is it safe to use an old wireless router?

I have a wireless B router and I want to know if it is safe to use. It is old (wireless B) so how does the wireless encryption compare with todays routers?

will it be a problem if I remove the antenna and use the ethernet cable to connect to my computer instead?

Hi and welcome

could we get info on router? why would you want to remove the antenna? cat 5 will work.

let us know

Ken J+

hello

the router is a dlink dL-514 (or maybe dI-514)

wireless B is quite slow for transfers, so i plan to use the wired connection for my main machine (faster) and when i have people over they can still use the wireless since B is still good for internet

i don't want to get a new router if this one is working fine.

If you can use AES or TKIP (or both) it's good. If it only has WEP it's not so good.

Check on the wireless security settings. It should have the options listed there.

If you're just using it with cable, it will be fine. I don't think encryption is needed over cable...just wireless....

I just had to get a new router because my year old router (wirless B) was not compatible with Windows 7 so you may want to test the wireless if you plan to use it.

EDIT: WPA or TKIP (or both) or WPA2 don't know about AES

You could also reflash the router with aftermarket firmware like dd.wrt, which has WPA and WPA2 built in. Not all routers can use dd.wrt, tomato, et al, so check around until you find an open source firmware package that works with your router.

This is what I just did with a brand new WRT160N Linksys (just for fun)

I flashed it with DD-WRT and it's very nice. I have used Tomato too. I think it's only for Linksys WRT routers.

DD-WRT has almost everything covered now. This is a good option.

The only question is if dd.wrt is usable in his router, and that isn't always easy to figure out. There are many routers that can use it, but aren't listed in the official supported router db. The best way to find out is to register in the user's forum over there and ask around.

edit: PS... I like your idea of reflashing a new router to dd.wrt... its so much more flexible and user-friendly than the native firmware on most factory flashed routers.

The best way is probably to type the # in here.

Router Database | www.dd-wrt.com

But I agree, if you're going to use it, go to the forums. It's not for the "faint of heart"

Looks like the "DI" series is NOT supported.....DIRs are

I checked the site and the router is not supported/not listed.

Can I just disable the wireless in the settings (and remove the antenna just in case) and use the router only with the wire? It will be secure correct?

You don't need to remove the antenna. Just log into it and look around. Make sure wireless is disabled. (192.168.0.1 probably) try typing this into your browser and click the "wireless" tab on th interface. Make sure it's disabled.

Here are some FAQs about your router

http://support.dlink.com/emulators/d...lp_faq.html#09