Netgear FR114P Cable/DSL ProSafe Firewall with Print Server

The FR114P is a network security device used to securely connect multiple computers in a home or a small office to the Internet via a broadband modem connection, such as DSL or cable modem.

To use the FR114P, you need an Ethernet adapter and a broadband Internet connection. The modem should have an Ethernet port to connect to the router. The FR114P works with most cable and DSL ISPs, however, some require a couple pieces of special configuration information (host name, domain name, etc.).

The FR114P can be set up easily using a Web browser. Simply connect your Cable or DSL modem to the WAN port on the back, connect computers to the LAN ports, then configure by typing 192.168.0.1 in the browser. Log in, and launch the Smart Wizard to finish configuration.

Along with a firewall, the FR114P comes with Freedom anti-virus and privacy software from Zero Knowledge Systems. This one-year subscription service is free with purchase. The software can be used on up to 8 computers on the LAN. Other upgrades that are available if you have more than 8 computers, or wish to take advantage of other security functionality offered by ZKS.

The built-in print server offloads the burden of requiring one computer to be on all the time — multiple users can employ one printer. It has a 36-pin parallel port.