If you do have a compatible router, then you can make it more stable and/or
give it more functions by installing a firmware from another source.
The most used firmwares for Linksys or Buffalo routers are:
DD-WRT
Tomato
I use Tomato myself on my two Linksys WRT54GL routers. Tried DD-WRT also,
it worked but had many more functions - that I did not need.
Some of the new possibilities you gain by switching firmware:
- Possibility for bridge or WDS modes (connect several routers wireless)
- Increase transmitter output to increase wireless range
- Stability
- Tuning for torrent-downloading
- Real-time graphics to show bandwidth
- QoS to prioritize traffic on ports and/or individual PCs
It does not cost anything to try. But be sure your router is compatible!
Some WRTs (Linksys) do need different processes to flash.
More about:
DD-WRT and the most active DD-WRT discussion forum
Tomato and the most active Tomato discussion forum