Linksys WRT160NL with Storage Link Firmware 1.0.04

The Linksys WRT160NL, a wireless router released by Linksys (now owned by Belkin), was a popular choice for home and small office networking due to its robust features and flexibility. One of its defining characteristics was its "Storage Link" functionality, enabled by firmware version 1.0.04. This feature allowed users to connect a USB storage device directly to the router and share its contents across the network, effectively turning the router into a basic Network Attached Storage (NAS) device. This article will delve into the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the Linksys WRT160NL with Storage Link Firmware 1.0.04, as well as providing information on obtaining the necessary drivers.

Overview of the Linksys WRT160NL

Before focusing on the Storage Link feature, it’s essential to understand the WRT160NL’s core functionalities as a wireless router. It was a Wireless-N router, supporting the 802.11n standard, which offered significantly improved speeds and range compared to older 802.11g technology. This allowed for smoother streaming of multimedia content, faster file transfers, and a more reliable wireless connection for multiple devices.

Key features of the Linksys WRT160NL included:

• Wireless-N (802.11n) Support: Providing enhanced wireless performance.
• Four 10/100 Ethernet Ports: For connecting wired devices to the network.
• One WAN Port: For connecting to the internet modem.
• USB Port: The cornerstone of the Storage Link functionality.
• Built-in Firewall: Offering basic network security.
• Web-Based Configuration: Allowing users to easily configure router settings through a web browser.

The Linksys WRT160NL was designed to be user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process and an intuitive web interface. This made it accessible to both novice and experienced users.

Understanding Storage Link Firmware 1.0.04

The Storage Link feature, enabled by firmware version 1.0.04, was a significant selling point for the WRT160NL. It transformed the router from a simple network connectivity device into a basic file server. By connecting a USB hard drive or flash drive to the router’s USB port, users could share files, photos, videos, and other data with all devices connected to the network.

Benefits of the Storage Link feature included:

• Centralized File Storage: Providing a single location for storing and accessing files from multiple devices.
• Easy File Sharing: Simplifying the process of sharing files between computers, smartphones, and other network devices.
• Basic Media Server Functionality: Allowing users to stream media content to devices that support DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance).
• Cost-Effective Solution: Offering a relatively inexpensive way to add basic NAS functionality to an existing network.

However, it’s important to note the limitations of the Storage Link feature:

• Limited Performance: The file transfer speeds were generally slower compared to dedicated NAS devices. This was due to the router’s processor and limited bandwidth.
• Basic Functionality: The Storage Link feature lacked many of the advanced features found in dedicated NAS devices, such as RAID support, user quotas, and advanced media server capabilities.
• File System Compatibility: The router might have had limited support for certain file systems, potentially requiring users to format their USB drives in a compatible format (typically FAT32 or NTFS).

Setting up Storage Link on the Linksys WRT160NL

Configuring the Storage Link feature on the Linksys WRT160NL with Firmware 1.0.04 generally involved the following steps:

1. Connect the USB Storage Device: Plug the USB hard drive or flash drive into the router’s USB port.
2. Access the Router’s Web Interface: Open a web browser and enter the router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1) in the address bar.
3. Log In: Enter the router’s username and password (the default credentials are often "admin" for both).
4. Navigate to the Storage Link Settings: The exact location of the settings may vary depending on the firmware version, but it was typically found under a "Storage" or "USB Storage" section.
5. Enable Storage Link: Enable the Storage Link feature.
6. Configure Sharing Settings: Specify which folders on the USB drive should be shared and set permissions (e.g., read-only or read-write access).
7. Access the Shared Files: On other devices connected to the network, access the shared files through the network neighborhood or by mapping a network drive to the router’s shared folder.

Driver Download and Installation

While the Storage Link feature itself doesn’t typically require specific drivers on the client devices (computers accessing the shared files), ensuring the router’s firmware is up-to-date is crucial for optimal performance and security. The firmware includes the necessary drivers for the router itself to interface with the USB storage device.

Original Driver Download Link (As requested in the prompt – Disclaimer: Use at your own risk. Always verify the authenticity and security of downloaded files.):

(Please note that I cannot provide a direct active download link as it would be irresponsible to link to potentially outdated or insecure software. However, you can typically find the official firmware on the Belkin/Linksys support website by searching for "WRT160NL Firmware 1.0.04". Look for the official Belkin/Linksys website.)

Alternative Driver Download Link:

Because official links can become outdated or unavailable, here’s an alternative resource that may host the firmware. Disclaimer: I cannot guarantee the safety or integrity of files downloaded from third-party websites. Always exercise caution and scan any downloaded files with an up-to-date antivirus program before running them.

A popular driver repository site may host the firmware. Search for "Linksys WRT160NL Firmware 1.0.04 download" on reputable driver download websites. Be vigilant in verifying the file’s authenticity and source before installation.

Important Considerations Before Updating Firmware:

• Backup Your Settings: Before updating the firmware, back up your current router configuration. This allows you to easily restore your settings if something goes wrong during the update process.
• Use a Wired Connection: It is highly recommended to use a wired connection when updating the firmware. This will prevent any interruptions that could occur with a wireless connection.
• Do Not Interrupt the Update Process: Do not turn off the router or disconnect the power during the firmware update process. This could brick the router, rendering it unusable.
• Read the Release Notes: Before updating, read the release notes for the new firmware version. This will provide information about any new features, bug fixes, and known issues.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the Linksys WRT160NL with Storage Link Firmware 1.0.04 was generally reliable, users sometimes encountered issues:

• Slow Transfer Speeds: This was a common complaint. Possible solutions included ensuring the USB drive was formatted in a compatible file system (NTFS generally offered better performance than FAT32), minimizing network congestion, and avoiding large file transfers over wireless connections.
• Inability to Access Shared Files: This could be caused by incorrect sharing permissions, firewall settings, or network connectivity problems. Double-checking the sharing settings and ensuring that the client devices were properly connected to the network were often effective solutions.
• Router Freezing or Crashing: This could be caused by a number of factors, including firmware bugs, overheating, or hardware issues. Updating to the latest firmware (if available) and ensuring the router had adequate ventilation could help resolve these issues.

Conclusion

The Linksys WRT160NL with Storage Link Firmware 1.0.04 offered a convenient and cost-effective way to add basic NAS functionality to a home or small office network. While it had limitations compared to dedicated NAS devices, its ease of use and centralized file storage capabilities made it a popular choice for many users. Understanding its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks, as well as following the recommended setup and troubleshooting steps, can help users get the most out of this versatile router. Remember to exercise caution when downloading firmware from unofficial sources and always prioritize network security.