Review: Sitecom Wireless Network Storage Router

Wireless router complete with built-in NAS server

The Wireless Network Storage Router from Sitecom doesn't feature Draft N compatibility, but as you might guess by the name it does house a nifty file sharing feature.

Plug in a USB key into one of the two ports on the router and you, along with other authorised users, will be able to access files stored on it from any internet-connected PC.

You can also use one of the USB ports to attach a printer, thereby allowing anyone connected to your network to print without the need for a specific PC to be switched on.

The USB ports are joined by four 10/100 Lan ports and a Wan port for your modem. Since this model doesn't house a built-in ADSL modem, it's only suitable for those with a separate Ethernet modem or cable broadband connection.

Setting the router up is a little fiddly due to Sitecom's use of multiple tabs within the web-based interface. It would be far easier if the wireless settings, for example, were all situated on the same page rather than split into five separate sections. That said, there's plenty of help provided to get you started and setting up services such as port forwarding is relatively simple.

It's refreshing to see Sitecom being so honest about actual wireless speeds. All too often we see kit that claims actual wireless speeds of up to 300Mbits/sec, which is incredibly misleading.

Although Wireless Network Storage Router's packaging does highlight the router's Turbo mode and a maximum speed of 125Mbits/sec, Sitecom also clearly makes the distinction between theoretical and practical speeds, stating that you're likely to achieve around 35Mbits/sec, which is good to see.

However, in order to see a real increase using the Turbo mode, you'll need to purchase suitable Turbo-enabled wireless adapters for your PCs. Sitecom's Turbo USB adapter costs £19.99.

With the majority of the UK hooked up to ADSL, the lack of a built-in modem in Sitecom's Wireless Network Storage Router severely limits its market. And, if the USB file sharing element of this router doesn't interest you, you're best off opting for a cheaper device - there are plenty of standard wireless routers available for around £50.

The Sitecom Wireless Network Storage Router and the various wireless adapters are available in the UK from Meroncourt.