[martin_fierro]

• Can the router be configured to run both channels at 2.4GHz?

  I don't think so.

• My laptop with the USB adapter is showing that I am picking up my network twice. Does that mean I am connected through both the USB adapter and the internal adapter at the same time getting massive flow to my router?

  No, without extensive modifications you can only be connected through one network connection at a time. Find out which one has better throughput/stronger connection and shut the other one off.

• Do you think it's worth it to get another adapter capable of 5.0GHz?

  Nah. But two router mods that I found to be helpful (if you can do them on the Netgear) were:

  • Change your broadcast channel to one of the higher ones, like 9 - 11; and
  • Change the MTU setting from its usual default of 1500 to 1400.

[jwsea55]

raybbr, Getting some good advice on both those posts from martin and jwalsh. If you are going to change channels definitely use jwalsh's suggestion to monitor at prime internet times. Wasn't sure where your skill level was.

There was also a helpful suggestion of changing your WIFI card. Most laptops that is easy, but not all of them. Google for laptop's manual to see where it is located and what it will take to get it out. Definitely take in your existing card with you since they are not all the same. Sounded like you might be on a budget and not sure you are going to recieve that much performance gain for the dollars you would shell out.