DD-WRT:
http://www.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv3/index.php
Tomato:
http://www.polarcloud.com/tomato
As another poster said, these things are under $100, so I have low expectations. I'd probably spend up to $500 if I could be assured of something more reliable.
Please try the firmware upgrade and the Linksys/Buffalo routers listed above. I had reliability issues with my Netgear, but with my $60 Linksys w/DD-WRT the thing runs rocks solid. Just set up another old Linksys as a Wireless Repeater to increase the signal in my house. Couldn't be happier.
Thanks!