Which router

[Ernest1951]

We have a Win 2000 network (domain) with 4 workstations (3-XP pro and 1-Win 2000 pro). Our current connection to the internet is through a Linksys befsr41. To make it work we had to disable dhcp and dns in the server and enable dhcp and set the dns statically on the router. This is not satisfactory. I would like to buy a Cisco router but need advice on which one would work for my network. We have a cable connection with ATT and are using a Motorola cable modem. I need to connect with another of my companies off site thru the internet. Any help on which router would work would be appreciated.

[raymong]

Here is a link with the routing hardware available from Cisco. For your setup, there are a few platforms that you could use (ie. 800 series, SOHO 70 Series, etc).

http://cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/routers/index.html

[robhorniachek]

Hi -

I would think that a PIX 501 or 806 router might be the best choice... In terms of the PIX, licenses are available for either 10 or 50 users, and the 806 has no limit.

The PIX comes with VPN, the 806 needs a code upgrade to get it, the PIX is easier to use as a firewall, but both do an equal job of simple NAT and firewall.

Both can be set up as a DHCP server, with the full range of DHCP code available to assign default gateway, DNS, WINS, etc. or it can be disabled as you mention above. They both also support DHCP on the outside interface...

I like the 501 - it's a metal chassis, runs full-blown PIX software, and is rock-solid. My 806 at home needed a code upgrade in order to support DHCP on the outside interface...

Hope that helps!