Review: NETGEAR N600 Router & Norton Anti-Virus Software

DISCLOSURE: This is a sponsored post. I received these products from Staples in exchange for writing this review. Although sponsored, all opinions are my own. 

OK, anyone who knows me knows that I know very little about computers and technology. I don't understand the terminology and get lost when I am asked to work with a new product. So when I received a request from Staples to review the NETGEAR N600 Router and Norton Anti-virus software, I panicked. First, what is a router? (I wasn't kidding when I mentioned that I was technology-challenged!) Am I going to know how to explain it? I consulted with my trusted tech geek, JC and he told me that this was the perfect opportunity to put on my big girl panties and learn. So, I agreed to do the review, start learning and GET IT TOGETHER!!! So here we go, this is not a super technical review, this is a review from a mom who is learning and slowly understanding.

Here's what I received:

The router we had installed was one provided by the cable company. According to the everyone who lives/visits the house, our Wi-Fi sucked! When this new one arrived, you would think it was Christmas at our house. My brother and JC wanted it installed right away. I was worried that we couldn't switch the routers (I called the cable company to make sure it was OK, it was!) My brother and JC pulled out their new toy from the box, disconnected the previous router and connected the new one, opened a browser and BAM! The built-in NETGEAR Genie took over and within 2 minutes everything was running perfectly...just like that! I didn't have time to take pics of the installation (6 super easy steps by the way on the Installation Guide, basically plugin cables, turning on router/modem, and opening a browser). They obviously do not understand the need bloggers have to take pictures of EVERYTHING!

Our Wi-Fi now is AMAZING!! Here is a comparison of my brother's iPhone Wi-Fi before and after (standing right in front of the router...):

Oh and it reaches out by the pool which is 130 ft (40 m) from the router:

I also learned that since this is a dual band router, my brother and JC can play their Xbox/Playstation on one band and leave the other band open for the phones/any other device requiring Wi-Fi! Yay! No more complaining!

Here are some other fun facts:

• The NETGEAR N600 Router is equipped with READYSHARE which provides fast and easy shared access to an external USB storage device.
• It has a broadband usage meter that ensures accurate measurement of internet daily, weekly and monthly traffic with customized alerts.
• Simultaneous dual band Wireless-N offers twice the bandwidth with better connection and less interference. 
• Live Parental Controls, powered by OpenDNS
• Lifetime Warranty

The Norton Anti-virus software was SO EASY to install. I ran the scan and our computer was clean. I didn't need any tech-help with this part of the review. This software is available for PC or MAC. After you install and scan, it continues protecting your computer from all those nasty viruses. It also protects your privacy and prevents your passwords and identity from being stolen while you surf the Web. The best part: It scans and updates when you are not using the computer so it doesn't slow you down or get in the way.

Do you have either of these products? What do you think about them?