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What Kind of Router for a PS3?

Sony's PlayStation 3 features built-in support for both wired and wireless network connections. If you're adding a router to the home network, the PlayStation 3 doesn't require an advanced router for gaming, media streaming and file sharing. In fact, any manufacturer's router supports the console. What's more important is if you'll be using the wired or wireless connection option, given that the router's connection type changes data transfer speeds, location of the console unit and connection reliability.

Wi-Fi Connection
- The PlayStation 3 features a built-in IEEE 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi adapter. If your router supports 802.11b, then the PlayStation 3's basic wireless connection is supported. However, 802.11g, the wireless standard adopted in 2003, operates at a 2.4-GHz frequency and allows increased distance between the PlayStation 3 and the router without signal degradation or increased interference. If you have access to a 802.11g router, then you'll experience faster transfer speeds and increased connectivity.
Ethernet Connection
- The PlayStation 3 supports direct Ethernet connections to any router that supports 10Base-T, 100Base-TX, or 1000Base-T. All routers on the market support 10Base-T and 100Base-TX. If you choose to use a wired Ethernet connection, consider using one that supports 1000Base-T, also known as gigabit Ethernet. The 1000Base-T or 1000Base-TX routers provide increased bandwidth, faster speeds and better shielding from external interference. A gigabit Ethernet router is optimal for a stable gaming experience, but a wired connection limits the placement of the console and the router.
Internet Connection Speed
- While the PlayStation 3 supports both wired and wireless connections, the router is also dependent on your Internet connection type, which in turn limits the bandwidth allocated to the PlayStation 3's gaming and streaming events. Cable-based connections require an Ethernet router, whereas DSL connections require an ADSL/modem router. The PlayStation 3 is optimized via a direct Ethernet connection; however, if you're limited by the decreased bandwidth of a DSL connection, then bypass the pricier routers that support gigabit Ethernet.
Router Manufacturer Preferences
- Home-based routers are typically not manufacturer dependent, and all modern routers support connectivity to the PlayStation 3. For example, D-Link, Linksys or Netgear all produce optimal routers for gaming. Routing technology is based on industry specifications and limited by other network components. In other words, your 802.11n Linksys router might be state-of-the-art, but it exceeds the PlayStation 3's technical specification and won't increase performance over a Netgear 802.11n router. Instead of the manufacturer, focus more on Ethernet or wireless 802.11g support.

PlayStation 3