Single review: Linksys EA6900 AC1900 Dual Band SMART Wi-Fi Gigabit Router

Linksys EA6900 AC1900 Dual Band SMART Wi-Fi Gigabit Router

Up to N600 + AC1300 Simultaneous Dual Band
3 Internal and 3 adjustable external antennas
USB 3.0 + USB 2.0
4 x 10/100/1000M LAN
800MHz BRCM 4708 Processor
Beamforming technology
DLNA certified

Ok but I wouldn't buy it again 03/30/2014

This review is from: Linksys EA6900 AC1900 Dual Band SMART Wi-Fi Gigabit Router

Pros:

-Removable antennas
-One USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0 port
-Four gigabit ports
-Dual Band
-Looks sleek
-Guest network is nice & works well

I've upgraded my desktop SSD so I have the old SSD in an external enclosure connected directing to the USB 3.0 port of the router (powered by the USB port). I dig this feature a lot because I can move things to hard drive for backup while in the home or transfer to and from the drive while at the office.

I turned the guest network on as a favor to some new neighbors until they were able to get their internet installed. I didn't want to have to change a bunch of settings to prevent them from browsing my music and photos but I wanted to extend a network connection to them until they got moved in and settled and it seemed to work out. I tested thoroughly before I gave them access and the router seemed to keep all my stuff secure. Of course, anything that can be done can also be un-done so I would only do this if you truly have nothing to lose.

Purchase date: 11/29/2013
Review date: 03/30/2014
Modem: Motorola SURFboard SB6121
Service provider: Charter Cable Internet
Location: Billings, Montana
Router hardware version: No idea, not sure how to check but I've read 1.0 is no good, get 2.0 or better

Cons:

I had the hardest time figuring out the major differences in internet speeds through the router vs. connected via Ethernet directly to my cable modem. Eventually I settled on the idea that the media prioritization feature was wrecking my connection so I disabled it. After that I would regularly get within 1Mbit of my promised connection speed from my provider.

The 5Ghz connection performance leaves me scratching my head at times. My work laptop, 1 iPhone and 1 Android device all use the 5Ghz wireless but each of them show fluctuating connection strengths at different times for no reason. We live in a 4-plex with an upstairs but constructed of standard wood and drywall (it's not a log home or anything). I can start walking up the stairs and signal drops to 2 bars, reach the top of the stairs and have 1, turn the corner and have 4 or 5. It's interesting, like the router is over loaded or far away but our space is only 1,200 Sq ft.

Lastly, the UI is junk. Great for old people or those that have no idea what they're doing but advanced users will feel it's certainly lacking. Being a two hundred dollar router, I expected a little more than the basic options & functionality.

If you're considering this router, I would re-direct you to the ASUS RT-AC68U instead as it seems to have gotten better reviews and is a bit more stable with an in-depth UI.

Manufacturer Response:

Hi Joel,

We greatly appreciate your detailed feedback on the Linksys EA6900. We're glad to know you liked its looks and its functionalities specially the storage feature. We are sure to take note of all valuable insights and relay them to the Team for future product developments.

With regard to the challenge you had with wireless connection, try adjusting the wireless settings to improve the connection. You may want to change the channels to avoid possible interfering wireless signal. Try all the channels and choose the one that will best work with your wireless environment, then shoot us an email at LinksysCares@linksys.com should you need further assistance. Include your contact details, Newegg user name, and the link to this review.

Regards,

Linksys Support
http://support.linksys.com

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Dana S.
Verified Owner
Owned For: 1 month to 1 year

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