ZoneAlarm Secure Wireless Router Z100G

The ZoneAlarm Z100G secure wireless router provides a number of security features and functions not found in other consumer-oriented wireless routers. With built-in antivirus and intrusion detection, the Z100G incorporates a security gateway into an otherwise standard 802.11g wireless router. It also provides VPN functionality that can provide valuable remote access to resources on the network. Taking all of that into consideration though, there are still some key areas where the Z100G is lacking, and the price tag is steep compared with other wireless routers of similar functionality.

The Z100G is much like any other Super-G wireless router. It is capable of wireless networking speeds up to 108mbps. It has extended range allowing wireless device to connect (at least theoretically) from distances up to almost 1000 feet indoors. It has a built-in 4-port switch for wired connections.

When you start comparing prices though, you may be in for a shock. The Z100G retails for $149.95. Comparable routers from Netgear or Linksys sell for less than half the price of the Z100G. Ouch! What is ZoneAlarm providing that could justify a price tag twice as high as comparable devices?

Well, a lot. The reality is that there aren't any "comparable" routers. That is because the comparison ends at the wireless bandwidth and number of wired switch ports, but the Z100G goes on to provide a variety of security features and functions that make it more of an all-in-one security gateway appliance for consumers, SOHO (small office / home office) users, or small businesses.

For example, the ZoneAlarm Z100G has built-in antivirus scanning and intrusion detection. The firewall capabilities of the Z100G provide a stateful program firewall not found in other wireless router firewalls. It segments the wireless traffic from the wired switch traffic. It provides web-based remote management capabilities and monthly security reports. It also includes built-in web filtering functionality to restrict the sites that employees (or children) can access. In other words, the Z100G provides a fairly comprehensive security gateway in addition to the standard 4-port, Super-G wireless router.

The price still stings a little. It would be nice if the wired ports were capable of Gigabit speeds, and if the number of wireless clients was not restricted. I think the Z100G can be a great tool for SOHO or small business use, but I wouldn't recommend it for normal home use.