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Nintendo has always been about keeping things in house when it comes to accessories. Before Microsoft was even thinking about play-and-charge kits, and wireless network adapters, Nintendo had the Super Scope, R.O.B., light gun, and Power Glove. Ok, so some of those aren’t great examples, but they all show how Nintendo likes to offer every accessory they can for their consoles.
Nintendo’s most recent foray into the accessory world comes by way of an internet router. What makes a Nintendo router more special than the Linksys one I currently have hooked up? The reason for Nintendo releasing a “first party” router is the simultaneous support of WPA, and WEP encryption. Also, the ability to support an AOSS connection. If you’ve never heard of any of these terms, let me elaborate.
WPA, and WEP are different security algorithms that are used to secure a wireless network. Mostly so that your pesky neighbors can’t steal your internet. Having these algorithms are important, as I had a roommate who was able to hack into someone’s computer who was stealing internet from us. So, there are people out there who can really mess you up, if you don’t have security.
The differences between the two encryptions is that WPA is more secure, but at the same time a lot less compatible with various wireless systems. Game systems mostly recognize WEP encryption, and Nintendo is hoping to change that with their router. Nintendo’s router, will give your Nintendo Wii the ability to read the WPA encryption, which is a huge step.
The next feature that will be available through Nintendo’s router is the ability of AOSS (AirStation OneTouch Security System). This is probably the best feature that the router has to offer. The problem with WEP and WPA encryption is remembering passwords, and writing them down because you have to input them into your Wii in order for it to connect. With AOSS, all of this will be done with the simple press of a button. The greatest thing of all, is that your network is still secure with AOSS.
Nintendo’s Wi-Fi Router, sells for $54, but you’ll have to import it if you want it immediately. No release date has been given for a North American launch.
[via: GameCyte]
September 11th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Johnny, I still don’t see the need to buy this over the Linksys I also have. Although, I guess it could be nice to not have to keep my Wii ‘grounded’ with a cable to my current router. But still, I could just buy another router (ie cheaper) and have it talk to my current one instead of this.