Q. Why should I upgrade my firmware, and which one is best?
 
A. The older firmware versions are kept in the Group's library for historical
interest and for reference, but only one can be on your WMLS11B at a time.  The
most current version as of November 2008 is 2.3.6, but 2.3.5 is functionally
identical and some group members have found it easier to install.  I would
suggest upgrading to 2.3.6 if possible.
 
The primary issue addressed by the firmware upgrades is the internet radio
function.  The WMLS11B is capable of playing mp3-based audio streams directly
from the internet with no external computer required on your local network, but
to do so it depends on a Radio Station DataBase (RSDB) which it downloads
periodically from a URL on the internet which is embedded into the firmware. 
The original Linksys '1.x.x' firmware, including the latest version available
on Linksys' website, directs the WMLS11B to an RSDB address which is no longer
operating, so many of the internet radio station listings don't work.  The
newer '2.x.x' - series firmware references an RSDB which is maintained by
vTuner, a company which provides such databases for quite a few brands and
models of internet radios.  By upgrading your firmware to 2.3.6 (or 2.3.5) you
will ensure that your internet radio menu will always be kept up to date (as
long as vTuner stays in operation, but they seem quite stable).

The vTuner RSDB is free and includes fifty stations in a variety of genres. 
For a very modest one-time fee a WMLS11B can be upgraded to what vTuner calls
the LinksysRadio "Super Service," which currently offers around 1,700
stations.  A free trial of the Super Service is included when a WMLS11B is
upgraded to the 2.3.x firmware; after approximately 90 days this reverts to the
free "Standard Service," which many users find adequate, especially since up to
20 stations can be added manually to the "My Favorites" section of the Internet
Radio menu.  Those who use their WMLS11Bs only to play media stored on their
local network might never even use the internet radio function and wouldn't
benefit from the Super Service.

However, if you intend to use internet radio, members strongly recommend
upgrading to the Super Service; many have cheerfully done so for each of their
WMLS11Bs (many members here have several) and would immediately do so for any
more they might purchase later.  The upgrade fee is a one-time cost and is
fully transferrable as it is linked to the individual WMLS11B, not to the
owner, so it adds value to the WMLS11B should you ever decide to sell it or
give it as a gift.  As was mentioned in an earlier message, the Super Service
is currently available for a reduced price at 
http://nems-store.stores.yahoo.net/prst10.html 
-- the 'sale' price is a real bargain.
 
I hope that helps!
 
Gary Fisher