Cisco recently released a new family of Valet routers. The new routers are stylish and, more importantly, they offer easy setup via their “Easy Setup Key” and Cisco Connect software”. The Valet has an MSRP of $99.99, the Valet Plus an MSRP of $149.99 and the Valet Connector, a wireless adapter, has an MSRP of $69.99.
Cisco sent on of the Valet routers for review and I decided to see just how easy it is to set up. How did I do that? I gave the unit to my college-age neighbor Chase. Chase knows almost nothing about computers so I figured he would be the perfect victim uhm… assistant for this experiment. Let’s see how Chase did.
From Cisco-
Get Connected- Create a wireless hotspot in your home and quickly connect your laptops, desktops, game consoles, and mobile devices to the Internet. Treat your family to an Internet experience that simplifies your life.
Set Up in Minutes- Simply insert Valet’s included Easy Setup Key to launch Cisco Connect software, breeze through the simple screens, and you’re wireless.
You’re the Boss- Parental controls allow you to limit your kids’ time online, block specific sites and/or certain times of the day. Customize the settings on each computer for a safer Internet experience.
Instant Guest Access- Give friends and visitors password access to the Internet but not your private information.
In the box is Valet wireless hotspot, the Easy Setup Key, an ethernet cable, a quick reference guide, and an Energy Star power adapter. That’s it. The router offers Wireless-N speeds but the real selling point is the setup. Here’s Chase… and his buddy Brandon in action.
The router works well, set up was easy so long as the cords were run in the right direction and the router was actually plugged in (ahhh Chase…). If you aren’t using an Apple Airport this is, in my opinion, the way to go for most homeowners.
The Cisco Valet is available directly from Cisco’s Valet website.
MSRP: $99.99
What I Like: Easier setup than most routers; good range; low profile; useful built-in setup and management software
What Needs Improvement: It is easier than most routers but still a project for those unfamiliar with wireless setups
Home Tech Review: Setting Up the Cisco Valet… How Simple is It … http://bit.ly/dD9W9z
geardiary: Home Tech Setting Up Cisco Valet… How Simple It? – http://bit.ly/9bmS9L