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Cisco today unveiled a stronger, more powerful router with new features to enhance home networks and media sharing. The Linksys E4200 Maximum Performance Dual-Band Wireless-N Router features simultaneous dual-band wireless-N, four gigabit ports, and six antennas in a three-by-three configuration designed to improve range and speed.

The Linksys E4200 is currently available only through the Linksys online store, Best Buy, and BestBuy.com, and has a price tag of $179.99.

Other new features of the E4200 include USB ports so that home users can add external storage to the network, where they can host media like movies, games, music, and photos, to stream to other devices. Cisco also has plans to convert to a virtual USB port, which will enable wireless printing for multiple users in the network. Rounding out the home media network, there's a UPnP media server for adding storage to serve an Internet-enabled television or media server PCs.

Also included in the full package is the Cisco Connect software, which helps users set up their network in three steps and provides easy-to-use network management tools such as parental controls and guest access.

Cisco clocks the device's maximum performance at 300 Mbps (2.4 GHz) and up to 450 Mbps (5 GHz). Cisco has also said it plans to offer support for IPv6 in a few months.

"The new Linksys E4200 router is ideal for home entertainment enthusiasts who want to equip their homes with the latest wireless technology or anyone who wants the reassurance of outfitting their home with the best router on the market today," said Simon Fleming-Wood, vice president of marketing for Cisco Consumer Products.

Click here for a full review of the E4200.