Linksys tech support - cheap & cheat

I bought the Linksys WRT54G wireless router from Bestbuy in the end of Dec 2007. It was installed on Dec 27 08. The router and the DSL modem are both plugged in a surge protector. On Feb 17, 2008, there was split second power failure. Everything was working except for the router.

I connected to Linksys technical through live-chat. I was told to reset the router. After several try and in vain, live chat asked when & where the router was purchased. As the purchase was recent and valid, live chat replied that she would seek further help and I had to wait several minutes.

After waiting for more than 10 mins, live chat asked for my router's serial number. Once I gave her the S/N, the help was gone. I was told that it was natural disaster and the router cannot be replaced. At that point, I wasn't thinking of a replacement, only fixing a problem. It never occured to me that the product would fail in such circumstances. Although I explained that a surge protector was used, it was not good enough for Linksys.

My complaint - why waste my time in the pretense of helping. The trick is so cheap and should not be used by a 'reputable' company. How can a brand new router, properly protected and with warranty, be used for less than 2 months, fail and not be replaced? Linksys is really really cheap. Can someone tell be further venues of complaint?

Comment On This

When you buy this product you but it...no support at all. I have been sent emails to ask the problem and I request to return the defective device. They send an email stating they don't understand. After talking to them on the phone, at my expense, I can understand why. They are located in India and can't speak English. I won't ever but this product again and suggest you do the same.