Bob,
Glad to hear you got it working. I've been using an old Linksys BEFSR41 for
years, and it has been faultless. I wouldn't update the firmware unless
you're having a problem. I am using firmware version 1.21.1, dated March 24
2000. I think the best rule is "If it ain't broke, don't fix it". Here is a
paste (about 2 years old) from Linksys:

"Please note that firmware is upgraded for the resolution of any problems
you may be encountering with the router and not for additional features.
Installing newer firmware on a presently-functioning router may result in
router malfunction. Please be aware of this when downloading firmware."

I've also used both Zonealarm and Sygate firewalls very successfully with
the BEFSR41.
Bob Lendrim


At 12/13/2003, you wrote:
>Talking about Linksys, I have a hand-me-down BEFSR41 that is about 2 years
>old.  I'm wondering if I should install the firmware upgrades I see on the
>Linksys support page.  In particular 1.44 and 1.45.
>Bob Warasila
>
>----- Original Message -----
>From: "Brad Loomis" <[log in to unmask]>
>
> > Linksys has an 800 number for tech support listed on their web page. I had
> > reason to use them a few years ago when I first got my router, the same
> > BEFSR41. The person was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. All issues
>were
> > resolved in short order. The only slight drawback was about a 10 min hold
> > time. Also available 24/7. On that experience alone all my switches
>routers
> > NICs etc are all Linksys.
> > Brad Loomis
> > Morro Bay, CA
> >
> > -----Original Message-----
> > Rob,
> > Is the router a new style BEFSR41 with only 1 row of leds on front (as
> > opposed to three leds per port)? I had the new style router and it acted
> > just like yours is. The switch portion seems to work fine, but the router
> > section didn't seem to work. If a computer was connected directly to the
> > broadband connection, everything appeared normal. I concluded there was
> > nothing wrong with the connection or the modem. I had my ISP tech support
> > go through all the settings on the router to make sure they were all set
> > correctly and they were. Support concluded the router was faulty. BTW, the
> > provider doesn't officially support routers so you may not get the same
> > response. I replaced it with an SMC Barricade and haven't had a problem
> > since. I found out during this episode that Linksys uses a 900 number for
> > support which upset me. I never talked to a live tech from Linksys.
> >
> > If you can find someone who will lend you a known working router you might
> > be able to troubleshoot your problem that way.
> > Good luck,
> > Michael
> >