A small PC component that can change your online life (Compu-Shack Fastline-PCI Realtek)

Member Name: Supermetroid

Product:	Compu-Shack Fastline-PCI Realtek
Date:	05/10/08 (11 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: CHEAP, easy to install, reliable

Disadvantages: might seem daunting for someone new to installing PC's, but its not!

A quick introduction for those who don't know what this item is for. If you have a broadband connection and your PC does not have a RJ45 plug, you need this card.

For a number of years I have been using an USB broadband modem, but now that I need multiple computers for a homenetwork, the search for something to upgrade my old desktop was important. It had to be something cheap, easy and reliable. That's where I came across this item for £4 at my local store.

Installation is easy, and the card easily slots into a PCI slot on the motherboard. No CD was required as windows immediately picked it up and installed the drivers, and quick install instructions are provided in the box.

The whole thing was literally done in two minutes. The driver support provided on the disc was excellent. However someone new to upgrading PC's should read around to familiarise themselves with the internal components of a PC, or get a friend who is familiar with PC's to help out.

The advantage of using an Ethernet card is now apparent as it does not use CPU power, and therefore does not appear to slow down my PC. The speed difference for going online is significant too.

The card does exactly what it says on the box, very easy to install even for beginners and the speed improvement is huge, considering that this costs just a fiver.

9/10 HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Summary: An awesome kit at an excellent price!