The Netgear DG834 ADSL Modem & 4-port Router enables a small home network to access the internet via ASDL (i.e. a telephone line). It's good value at under £50.

The box contains the router, power supply, DSL filter (to plug into the phone socket), cable from the filter to the router, 1 CAT5 network cable, a support CD-ROM and warranty.

The DG834 is smaller than the DG814, and it is white rather than silver and lacks an on/off switch. Otherwise it's very similar.

Setup is a breeze - plug it all in and then load up your browser (any browser). Enter http://192.168.0.1 in the address field, click OK and you're asked for the (default) admin password.

Run the setup wizard, enter your ISP login details, click apply and you're surfing!

There's a CD supplied containing a user guide and some trial software, but I just left it in the box. There's no need for any software, drivers or plug'n'play or anything.

The security is good - test your vulnerability with Shields Up! from Gibson Research (http://www.grc.com/intro.htm)

Visitors with a laptop can plug into one of the spare ports for instant 'Net access, and can also print to my network printer.

Netgear offer a device (WG602) to add wireless networking if desired.