Virgin Cable: Router & Modem Combo?

[LWA]

Ladies and Gents,
Quick question for you here, I am awaiting my Virgin cable connection to be installed (this Friday) so was looking around for a nice router (of which I shall be getting a WRT54GL).

However, how come router / modem combos aren't common when using a cable connection?

The reason I ask is that when I used a BT line for my broadband I had a single modem/router combo rather than plugging the modem into the router.

Thanks in advance,
Leon

Edit: Dammit, PC World don't have the WRT54GL in stock Guess I will have to get it delivered...

[nichomach]

VM will install a cable modem which has an ethernet port; this you plug into the WAN port of a cable compatible router. This contrasts with ADSL services which are frequently provided "wires-only", i.e. no modem or router, or with a USB modem (although more are being provided with free routers). VM are pretty restrictive about what you plug into their cables (i.e. you can only use their STB for TV, and only use their modem for broadband), and they're the only cable operator around in the UK (NTL and Telewest were the same before the merger). Consequently, there's no market for a combined device.

[LWA]

Thank you kindly sir.

I was aware that you simply plug the modem into a router (as I have done in the past), it was the reasoning behind the lack of modem/router combo devices that was puzzling me; you answered my question perfectly, thanks.

Now, does anyone know of somewhere where I can walk in an buy a WRT54GL? (because it's a pain to have these items delivered)

PC World / Dixons etc only seem to stock the WRT54GSUK.

[gss03]

Amazon?
Amazon.co.uk: Linksys WRT54GL-UK, Wireless Access Point Router w/ 4-Port Switch, Black/Blue: Electronics & Photo

[LWA]

Hmm does anyone know the difference between the WRT54GS & the WRT54GL?

I think the difference is that the WRT54GL runs Linux? I like the idea of running the Tomato firmware so I will probably get this one.

Although the WRT54GS appears to be a more powerful unit.


Edit: Ignore me, the GS doesn't run Linux so I couldn't have installed tomato. I have purchased the GL Thanks all.

[jimborae]

And you made the right choice, The GL is the same as older versions of the GS (which did used to run a version of Linux firmware). The newer versions of the GS were cut down versions of the old, less ram a cheaper chipset etc. and as you discovered do not run a Linux firmware. Old vers of the GS, G or or the current GL are the way to go.

[Agent]

If you cant get it delivered to work, you can have it sent to mine and pick it up after work if the worst happens

I use the exact same setup btw