The Bottom Line
Pros
- Built-in antivirus and security gateway
- Provides VPN capabilities to connect remotely with network
- Built-in USB print server
Cons
- More expensive than comparable wireless routers
- No Gigabit ethernet
- Security features require subscription
- Only allows limited number of wireless devices to connect
Description
- A Super-G wireless router on "security steroids"
- Wireless bandwidth up to 108mbps with a range of almost 1000 feet indoors
- Antivirus scanning performed by Z100G. Antivirus updates are acquired automatically by the router
- Web-based management and monthly security reports make the Z100G a solid tool for SOHO and small business
- Wired and wireless traffic are segmented, providing a layer of protection between the two
Guide Review - ZoneAlarm Secure Wireless Router Z100G
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.