The router has a lot of ventilation holes and I guess that this would be required considering the maximum bandwidth would put a huge load on the router’s processor. I like the overall look of the router, but the spider-like design is something we have seen before. I would have also liked all the antennas to be detachable, so it would be easy to replace if they ever got damaged.

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The quick installation guide worked well with my cable Internet connection, all I had to do was enter the configuration details and it was connected. The phone app and the software on the router were both very easy to use, even for a novice. While the software for the router is great for beginners, advanced users will find it a little difficult to get the settings they are looking for. This may prevent users with strong networking knowledge to extract the best out of their router. This is doubly so because this router is not yet supported by DDWRT or any other custom firmware. I prefer routers that support custom firmware since I like to customise my settings.

Once configured, the router ran like a champ. I could get a strong signal in every corner of my house and even outside. This was very impressive. There are also 4 Gigabit LAN ports on the back along with a Gigabit WAN port, which were great for connecting my LAN network at home. Taxing the network with 4K game streaming and video streaming went smoothly, there was no lag on LAN and while streaming wirelessly. Considering the prevalence of 4K TVs this would be required for premium Netflix connections.

The USB ports at the back and the simple to use software made it easy to set up a file server, which I could configure to be accessed online using a dynamic IP made right in the router software. The voice control through Alexa and Google Home is a little limited; for example, it could be used to turn the Guest WiFi on or off. I think if they gave voice control more options, it could easily be a security risk, so it is probably best that the voice control has limited functionality.

Users can also add one or more routers to their home network to create a mesh network. Mesh networks improve the overall range and unlike extenders, the devices see the entire network as one, which makes moving from one room to another very seamless. No need to add another router name and password to your phone, tablet or laptop.

The D-Link DIR-X5460 might seem expensive, with its Rs 12,599 price tag, when compared to the lower-end routers that cost around Rs 1,000. In this case, you get what you paid for. The signal on the D-Link is excellent, the features are plenty and most WIFi 6 routers with similar specs cost a lot more than this. In addition, the USB ports on the back make this router very useful. The fact that this can be part of a mesh network makes a huge difference if you are planning to use this in a large space. If you are also someone that streams 4k or uses multiple devices on WiFi, this router is more than capable. Not to mention you have a three-year warranty.

Amazon reveals video chat gadget

Amazon revealed a new video chat gadget with a built-in projector called Amazon Glow. The device can be used by children to video chat while engaging in projected games, books and puzzles which the kids can play along with the person they are chatting with. The device will cost $299.99 (R22,000 approx) and if you want one you will have to apply to the invite only program. The device will come with a year of Amazon Kids Plus content and the product will probably only be available initially in the US.

Japan gets a gaming specific mattress

A Japanese gaming furniture brand Bauhutte has created a special mattress meant for gamers. The mattress fits in to their gamers bed which can be outfitted with screens peripherals and other accessories. The Mattress has five zones that are used to perform Gaming, Sleeping, watching Anime and Eating from the comfort of your bed. The mattress is available in three sizes single, semi-double and double with a starting price of 28,500 Yen (R19,000 approx).

Mario to be voiced by Chris Pratt

Mario will be getting a full length movie next year with Chris Pratt voicing Mario. The announcement was made during Nintendo Direct by Super Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto. It was mentioned that Charles Martinet who voices the game versions of Mario, Luigi and Wario will do a special cameo in the film.

Pros
>> Simple to install and use
>> Well-priced 
>> Superb features and range

Cons
>> The software is too simplistic
>> No DDWRT support
>> Large footprint