Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I have used and installed home networks of various types and sizes, including those based on Linksys products. I was excited about the release of this EA 6900 router as it would combine several features I wanted... 2 bands, external antennas (which I planned to replace with more powerful ones), and off-site management. I ordered it pre-release directly from Linksys. I could not be more disappointed. While the features all sound great on paper, they DO NOT work well in reality. I didn't experience trouble during start-up like many of the other reviewers. My troubles came shortly thereafter, and the unit eventually overheated. The minor issues: the range is shorter than comparable routers. There was considerable speed loss (75% or so) even when in good range. There was about a 50% speed loss with items that were directly plugged in. For those of us who pay a lot extra to get higher speeds (100gig), this was a problem. Perhaps this won't effect those with slower connection speeds as much. WORST issue: after a couple of weeks, speed was reduced dramatically. I investigated, and discovered a terrible burning smell. Like others, I experienced an over-heated unit. This should not have been caused either by our usage or item placement, and is due to a product not ready for prime-time. APPLE AirPort: I returned this product and purchased an AirPort Extreme. I could not be happier. It has less features and customability, but simply works easily and well. The range is better, and speed much better (very little loss when connected via ethernet or wireless). I kicked myself for not having tried Apple networking products prior to now, and have already seamlessly added a couple of AirPort Expresses as Access Points to expand the network. It is Plug-and-Play, and also controllable via app (which I hope they add remote management to). Like most personal networking equipment, this is a great product on paper/in theory, but terrible in application/real life. I'd suggest that potential buyers go elsewhere (Apple AirPort Extreme is my new favorite). PS: I hope not to get comments from Linksys/Belkin tech support suggesting I try their call center for help. I did make sure it was plugged-in. I updated the firmware (which was easy). I've logged many, MANY hours talking with them (as well as Cisco techs); between myself and google, I covered all bases with this device (their canned suggestions would not have alleviated the problems experienced; it's just a faulty device).