Westell 6100 DSL Modem/Router Review

The Westell 6100 is a DSL modem/router which provides a DSL internet connection to a single computer via either a USB or ethernet cable, after a telephone cord and power adapter are connected to the back of it.

The 6100 is a small (just under 5"x5", and about 1.5" thick), very lightweight unit with a black exterior and white lettering. There is a row of fairly large green lights on the front marked "Power", "Ethernet", "USB", "DSL", and "Internet." These are useful for reminding you when the unit is turned on, and for diagnosing connection problems. This Westell modem/router is designed to either sit flat or stand up on its side.

In addition to the power, USB, telephone cord, and ethernet jacks, there is a reset button and on/off switch on back of the unit. Ventilation slots are located along the sides. A minor drawback is that this modem/router doesn't have any rubber "feet" and slides around easily on smooth surfaces, making it easy to knock over. I once knocked it off a desk by accident and it fell on the floor; fortunately, the unit was undamaged. The Westell 6100's power adapter is relatively small and has a green LED light on it.

Different people make varying recommendations as to whether or not a DSL router/modem should be turned off when it is not in use. Some people say it improves security, while others claim it doesn't matter; either way, shutting it off probably saves at least a small amount of electricity. I turn mine off when I am not using the internet, which seems to work fine - it only takes a few seconds for the internet connection to be ready to use after I turn the Westell 6100's power back on.

After almost two years of regular use, the Westell 6100 modem/router I am using has not had any technical or mechanical problems. It can be purchased on eBay.com for about $15-50 (including the shipping cost), as well as some online shopping websites, but might also be distributed to you when subscribing to a DSL internet service provider. It usually comes with an AC adapter and wires for connecting it to the computer; some sellers and DSL providers also include a telephone cord and/or filter(s) to keep DSL noise from being heard on telephones and answering machines.

Overall, the Westell 6100 appears to be a reliable, durable unit which doesn't take up much desk space or have features which are unnecessary for someone connecting to the internet on a single computer.