Review on 📶 Cisco-Linksys WRT160N Wireless-N Broadband Router: Superior Connectivity for Seamless Internet Access by Raffy Baer

While I was in the process of writing a glowing review, I recently noticed a power and startup issue with this router. This startup problem has been noticed by other users who seem to think they have a defective product and are posting their impressions online. We hope this review helps as there is an easy fix. If the power adapter is cold (unplugged from the outlet for several hours) and STILL connected to the router, the Cisco Linksys WRT160N will have trouble starting up with the DC power adapter plugged into the wall outlet. The router goes into an infinite loop that looks like a failed boot sequence with all the lights flashing at the same time. There is a simple solution to this problem that may not be obvious at first. Disconnect the other end of the power adapter from the router, and then plug the power adapter into an electrical outlet. Warming up the power adapter in just a few seconds allows the router to boot up normally. I suspect a power or voltage surge is damaging the router. When not in use, I unplug my router along with my cable modem and Vonage terminal adapter to conserve power, especially in the summer when the waste heat from such devices increases air conditioning loads. Although this router consumes only 4 watts of power, turning off communications and computing devices at night can result in significant energy savings. If it wasn't for this startup issue, I would have given the Cisco Linksys WRT160N five stars. Cisco should have known that such an issue might exist as customers are advised to minimize electrical loads. Let's hope Cisco can step in and adapt its products to such vampire workload reduction initiatives.