Cisco has launched a new Linux-powered router, the Linksys by Cisco Wireless-N Broadband Router with Storage Link (WRT160NL) for the Indian market. Created specially for hobbyists and wireless aficionados, the router supports customised third-party firmware. The design of the product is similar to other Linksys by Cisco routers. In addition, it also sports integrated R-SMA antenna connectors so consumers who prefer external antennae can now enjoy the new Linksys by Cisco router design. The integrated Storage Link functionality is designed to allow consumers to connect their USB storage device to the router to create a media sharing solution.

Since WRT160NL is powered by Linux OS, it allows feature additions or enhancements by loading customised firmware into the router. The Storage Link port lets users connect USB storage devices to the router. Music, video, or data files can be made available in the network through the built-in media server. The media server can stream to PCs or UPnP AV digital media adapters. The integrated Storage Link port supports FAT16, FAT32 and NTFS file systems in both read and write mode.

Although most Linksys by Cisco routers feature internal antennae, WRT160NL has external antennae. The two R-SMA antenna connectors are designed to allow tech-savvy users to be more flexible in their antennae choice and placement.

Suresh Balasubramanian, national sales director, consumer products, Cisco, India, said, “In the past, we have had many successful Linux-powered devices, WRT54GL being a great example. WRT160NL is the next advanced step combining Linux OS, 802.11n technology, USB storage link functionality and the improved sleek design. We see WRT160NL not just as a possible successor of our WRT54GL as the market transitions to Wireless N but also the ideal choice for customers looking for superior functionality at reasonable cost.”

System specifications:
* Linux powered
* 400Mhz processor
* 8 Megabytes Flash memory
* 32 Megabytes DDRAM
* Storage Link port (USB 2.0)
* UPnP AV media server
* Wi-Fi protected Setup push button security
* 2 x R-SMA antennae connectors

The router is immediately available from authorised Linksys by Cisco retailers for a manufacturer’s sales recommended price of Rs 7,499.