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Remote administration (via the web, for instance) can be locked to a single IP, and you can turn off the ping response of the router so that it ignores all external pings and makes you “invisible” to outside scans of the most basic nature. All in all, the features list of the router is pretty robust, though it does NOT have some advanced features like static routing and dynamic routing. What it DOES have that is extra, is a very thorough logging system, and a nice context sensitive online help system, which came in pretty handy during set up. Remember also that the COM port enables ISDN or Dial Up support, in case you need a backup network access service that can be reconfigured easily.

As of the latest firmware, you can also backup your settings so that if anything goes wrong you won’t have to go scrambling for your written setup options (though whenever administering ANY network or computer, you should always document all settings that you use).

Security wise the router is pretty solid. Because you can block WAN side pings, and because the router doesn't respond to TCP or UDP scans on nearly all the ports, hackers are less likely to detect your presence and try to get into your network. The router's main line of defense, like nearly all other internet routers of this price range (less than $300), is to mask your network's internal IP's using NAT. With this firewalling of your network, only one IP (that of the router) is even visible to the outside world. When we did some simple port scanning and testing, we found that only port 113 was not in stealth mode, all other ports refused to respond to pings and connection requests. That's nearly as good as you can ask for, so there's no complaints in this department.

The SMC Barricade Box & Package

I have a few minor quibbles with the Barricade Router. The access control support is nice, but there are only 3 configurable group types – most other routers have at least 6 or more. There’s also no physical reset switch. Quite a few routers have are missing a hardware reset switch, and it could pose a problem. Imagine for instance if you totally lose your settings and have DHCP support turned OFF, it would be pretty convenient to reset the router to default settings so that you could at least access the administration screen.

Other than these extremely minor details, the router is a solid piece of work. The rugged casing combines good looks with a great design philosophy, and the features are superb for the price. I especially liked the inclusion of the print server (one of the handiest features in a home or small office setup), and the addition of the COM port which could be indispensable for small offices with dial-up connections as a backup in case of DSL or cable failure. As I noted before, these features can be found on other routers, like the Asante FriendlyNet, but the Barricade comes in at a price point $50 cheaper than any other similarly equipped router. The amazing price and value of the Linksys 4 port router made it an instant hit… the Barricade may not be as robust in network features, but it manages to pack in the print server and COM port at a LOWER price point. To me, this router deserves a lot of attention, and some serious consideration from anyone looking for a solid router for their home or small office.

Overall Score: 88%