That all changes today with new Xtreme N series Wi-Fi routers featuring the company's Green Ethernet technology, which, in short, powers down unused ports and determines cable length to optimize power flow. In a similar manner, the new routers now offer a scheduling option.

The D-Link Green Wi-Fi Routers achieve optimal energy savings when used with the Wi-Fi Scheduler, which provides a user-selectable radio shutdown option (adjustable by day and start/end times). Under the most favorable conditions with no wired links active and Wi-Fi turned off, users may achieve the following power savings when compared to a D-Link conventional router without Green technology: DIR-655, up to 32%; DIR-855, up to 41%; and DGL-4500, up to 31%.

Not only is this a way to conserve energy, but shutting down the unit's radio is a great way to enhance security during the hours that no one is using Wi-Fi a the household.

Prices are $149.99 for the DIR-655, $359.99 for the DIR-855 and $239.99 for the online gamer oriented DGL-4500. And in a shameless "display" of green gadgetry, the DIR-855 and DGL-4500 rock OLED network activity panels.

Neat!