Verizon GT704WG DSL Gateway

Verizon provides the GT704WG Wireless Modem / Router from Actiontec with your Verizon DSL subscription. It is disappointing that they are still shipping a product with the wireless "G" standard when "N" has been out for some time now and many laptops ship with the newer standard. Other than that it is a versatile gateway with wireless "G" and a 4 port switch that does the job.

Verizon provides you with the "Verizon High Speed Internet Installation" CD which takes you through some instructions about installing filters, connecting the modem, activating the account, configuring service and it's proprietary software. Like many of us, you may prefer avoiding any unnecessary proprietary software if possible. Particularly if you use a laptop at multiple locations. If you choose to skip their installation you will still need to visit their activation page on a new account. Alternately, you can try typing "http://192.168.1.1/verizon/redirect" in your browser to release the router if you already have an existing account at this location. Otherwise, if you have a desktop and little experience with setting up DSL, the CD is easy to follow and provides some troubleshooting and account access utilities.

You can access the device interface with your browser at http://192.168.1.1 entering the default username "admin" and password "password."

You have the convenience of seeing your upload and download speeds as well as what other devices a seen on the network. This is a nice first step if you suspect your connection is slow or are having trouble connecting to another device on the network such as a network printer. Beyond these simple features are the more advanced capabilities of the GT704WG.

Wireless is easy to setup with all the basic settings on a single page. The advanced settings page shows the versatility of the unit which provides for settings for the default DSL as well as T1, T3, and ADSL. You can keep the default dynamic routing or configure fixed. You can set incoming or outgoing priorities for specific functions or applications and more.

The unit sells over the counter at retail outlets in the high $80 range. Verizon charges $79 for the unit. Online, the price varies, with some seen as low as $63. Well worth the price for a combination modem / router. Even more appealing if they had a wireless "N" unit in that range.