Introduction
2-1
April 2004, 202-10018-02
Chapter 2
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the NETGEAR
®
108 Mbps Wireless Media Router
WGT634U. The WGT634U Wireless Media Router provides connection for multiple personal
computers (PCs) to the Internet through an external broadband access device (such as a cable
modem or DSL modem) that is normally intended for use by a single PC.
By connecting a storage device to the WGT634U through the integrated USB 2.0 interface, you
can store and share files and entertainment content for access from PC and Web applications on
computers connected on the home network as well as from the Internet. This chapter describes the
features of the NETGEAR 108 Mbps Wireless Media Router WGT634U.
Introduction to the WGT634U Wireless Media Router
The 108 Mbps Wireless Media Router WGT634U with 4-port switch connects your local area
network (LAN) to the Internet through an external access device such as a cable modem or DSL
modem.
The WGT634U Wireless Media Router provides you with multiple Web content filtering options,
plus browsing activity reporting and instant alerts — both via e-mail. Parents and network
administrators can establish restricted access policies based on time-of-day, Web site addresses
and address keywords, and share high-speed cable/DSL Internet access for up to 253 personal
computers. In addition to the Network Address Translation (NAT) feature, the built-in firewall
protects you from hackers.
Home networks initially gained popularity for broadband Internet sharing through wired (first
generation) and wireless (second generation) routers. The addition of Internet-enabled appliances
is leading to the ‘third generation’ of performance and functionality from wireless routers. The
WGT634U is a third generation wireless router that allows router-attached storage and provides
fast wireless access. It enables you to store and stream files, audio, and video content from a
high-capacity USB-enabled disk drive. You can take advantage of advanced networking functions
such as application-level access to music, photo and other PC files as well as remote access to a
home portal.
With minimum setup, you can install and use the router within minutes.