A wireless router, also known as a Wi-Fi router is a hardware device that shares internet access across multiple networks or computer systems. In other terms, it is a networking gadget that allows multiple Wi-Fi-enabled systems to connect to the internet.
The events of the past year have intensified the importance of Wi-Fi routers, since we now have to work remotely and connect to various study and entertainment apps such as Google Classroom, Zoom, Netflix, IMDb, and Disney + simultaneously.
If you are looking to buy a router, you need to know the factors that make a good router and tailor these factors to your connection needs. This buying guide will teach you everything that will help you buy and connect with the best wireless router for you.
What factors do I need to consider before buying?
Wireless Standard
The standard that governs networking equipment is IEEE 802.11, and the last five numbers may look familiar to you if you purchased your last router a decade ago. At that time, the following standards dominated the market: 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n. All three are now considered legacy/historical standards, based on outdated technology that's seldom encountered today. Two of the most popular newer standards are 802.11ac and 802.11ax; with all of the 802.11 this and that, it's hard to keep track of which standard represents what. With so much information around to confuse buyers, who has time for that?
Luckily, the Wi-Fi Alliance agreed and created a much simpler naming system, applied retroactively. From oldest to newest:
- 802.11n is now Wi-Fi 4
- 802.11ac is now Wi-Fi 5
- 802.11ax is now Wi-Fi 6
Most of today's consumer routers are of the Wi-Fi 5 variety, with higher-performing models adopting the Wi-Fi 6 standard. Each is also backwards-compatible with earlier versions, so your older devices should be able to connect to your new router regardless.
Wi-Fi Bands
When selecting your wireless router, find out how many bands it can broadcast on. Entry-level routers tend to be restricted to a single 2.4 GHz radio, while premium routers simultaneously operate on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. 2.4 GHz tends to be more stable and will provide a usable signal through several walls, but 5 GHz is the band that will deliver blistering Wi-Fi throughput speeds.
Security
The internet is a hacker’s playground, and vulnerabilities in online systems are like rollercoasters. To protect your whole online system from being held hostage by hackers, you must select a wireless router that supports WPA2 or WPA3 security authentication. That said, not all devices support WPA3, so you must check if your all devices are WPA3-compatible before setting up your network. You can also check for Wi-Fi routers with extra security measures like built-in antivirus software, extra encryption, firewalls, VPN services, the ability to block unwanted users, and many more.
Routers with high-level security measures will cost a pretty penny, but at least they’ll keep you safe from online predators.
USB Ports
The rule here is quite simple: Before purchasing a wireless router, make sure it has two or more USB ports (at least 3.0) for connectivity. Even with the growing popularity of other connection methods, standard USB remains one of the most common and simplest file transfer methods. Therefore, your Wi-Fi router must have ports that support the connection of USB devices like hard drives and printers to enable you to share files to all the devices on your network.
Actual Rate
The primary function of a wireless router is to provide internet access, and you'll want the highest possible data speeds for maximum stability. Modern routers now come with an easy reference label that provides information on both the router's 802.11 standard compliance and wireless throughput speeds. For example, a router labeled AC1200 means it's an 802.11ac (or Wi-Fi 5) device that can offer up to 1,200 Mbps (megabits per second) of combined throughput. Likewise, an AX11000 label refers to an 802.11ax (or Wi-Fi 6) router that can deliver a theoretical maximum of up to 11,000 Mbps, meaning this router uses newer technology and will perform at nearly ten times the speed of the first example we used.
While the AC/AX moniker is useful in that it allows shoppers to easily figure out the rotuer's technology at a glance, take the following numbers with a grain of salt. No router will ever truly achieve the speeds shown on the box; as mentioned above, that number indicates a theoretical maximum. In the real world, data throughput is limited by various environmental and technological factors - i.e. distance from the router, interference caused by physical walls or competing signals, your device's ability to connect to multiple streams, etc.
In any case, a larger number translates into a higher-performing router. With that in mind, don't feel compelled to stretch your budget on a flashy router promising best-in-class throughput if you don't really need the extra speed. One other potential bottleneck to consider is your internet provider's subscription package - there's no reason to waste money on a $500 gaming router if your service caps out at 50 Mbps. An AX11000 router may be able to provide unparalleled wireless data speeds, but the internet coming into your home isn't going to move any faster than 50 Mbps no matter what your router does.
RAM and Processor Chip
Wireless routers are essentially miniaturized computers that are built with a specific function in mind, so it makes sense that they'd feature a processor and RAM just like the device you're using. It works the same as any other computer - a router equipped with a faster processor with multiple cores and plenty of RAM will be able to run more simultaneous tasks with a higher degree of reliability.
A router's RAM and processor determines its speed. Activities such as streaming, internet surfing, online gaming, data sharing and whatnot, tend to weigh on the RAM and processor. Don't overthink it, though. Every Wi-Fi certified router on the market features adequate componentry that will allow stable operation, so the router's processor and RAM shouldn't be what determines your selection. One exception to this concept is for power users such as professional gamers, graphic designers, or any other use case that requires extra-robust hardware. If you fall into this category, you probably already know exactly what you need.
Quality of Service (QoS)
QoS, also known as traffic control or media prioritization is a feature that determines how intelligent your wireless router is. When shopping for a router, check that it has Intelligent QoS, Intelligent Dynamic QoS, or Adaptive QoS and not just plain QoS. These advanced traffic controls will automatically split bandwidth according to the demand and ensure seamless internet connection no matter the amount of data being consumed.
Wireless Router FAQs
Can two routers be used on the same home network?
Yes. It is possible to connect multiple routers to one home network. Combining two or more wireless routers can boost network coverage, thereby eliminating possible "dead zones" and allowing devices located further away to connect and be a part of the network. Also, connecting a Wi-Fi router to a wired one allows wireless devices to connect to the network.
Do wireless routers have a lifespan?
Yes. The internal system does not experience mechanical wear and tear, since it has no moving parts. So in theory, they should last for as long as possible. However, everything fails eventually, so the estimated average lifespan of a wireless router is 5 years. This duration may change depending on certain factors like maintenance, advancements in internet technology, and usage.
How can I boost the speed and performance of my wireless router?
Sluggish internet speed is one of the most annoying things on the planet. But don't worry, here is a list of things to do to boost the speed of your router:
1. Change its position: You can start by placing it in a more central area.
2. Adjust or change your router’s antenna.
3. Check your internet data plan - are you leaving speed on the table?
4. Reduce unnecessary connections to the router. For example, when's the last time you turned on that Xbox?
5. Extend your Wi-Fi network coverage with devices such as Wi-Fi boosters, Mesh Wi-Fi systems, wired access points, or a power line extender.
6. Reboot your router and other devices connected to it by switching them off and on.
7. Confirm that you are on the right frequency band. 2.4 GHz is more stable and reaches further throughout the house, but often won't provide the speed that a 5 GHz connection can.
8. Check for firmware updates on your router and apply them if needed.