Faulty or slow wireless routers are the biggest source of insanity today. And the fact that this problem is so common today has everybody riled up. Because they believe that they can do nothing about it, even with a brand-new wireless router. But this isn’t true. If you’re looking to purchase a new router, you can make sure that it works well. It’s easy to choose the best one with prior knowledge at hand. But don’t worry. You won’t have to go far and beyond to get this knowledge. Below are some ways that will ensure that you buy the best router.
Check Wi-Fi Standards
One of the most important factors when buying a new wireless router is checking wireless standards. This is the easiest way that increases your chances of getting a functional router. Wireless technology standards are not fixed. They keep changing over time. But the last decade has seen big changes. Previously, routers used IEEE802.11a or 802.11b. But things are different today. Most new devices such as laptops, computers, and smartphones use 802.11ac. Simply put, this means that they can gain access to faster speeds. Here are some wireless standards over time.
- IEEE 802.11, Speed: 2 Mbps
- Wi-Fi 2/IEEE 802.11b, Speed: 11 Mbps
- Wi-Fi 4/IEEE 802.11n, Speed: 600 Mbps
- IEEE 802.11ad (WiGig), Speed: 6.7 Gbps
- IEEE 802.11ah (HaLow), Speed: 347 Mbps
- Wi-Fi 6/IEEE 802.11ax, Speed: 450 Mbps/10.53 Gbps
Take a Router’s Lifespan into Account
This factor is very easy to overlook. In fact, most people don’t know that their networking hardware has a timestamp. This means that they don’t last forever. So don’t confuse it with your Cox cable packages that serve users for a long time. Networking hardware is not indestructible. They have a lot of functions that wear these devices out. For instance, Wi-Fi connections are connected to smartphones, televisions, laptops, computers, and even bulbs now. The load they’re made to carry Is massive. So, if your router is acting up and you can’t seem to find a plausible solution, change it. There’s a good chance it’s just worn out. Especially if it’s old.
Take Price into Account
Price is something that dictates most buyers’ choices. Some routers are super expensive, some lie on the moderate center and some are cheap. But with wireless routers, price points aren’t as simple. Yes, higher prices usually mean better functioning routers. But is it always a good idea to get expensive routers? The answer is no. This is because wireless standards are changing. So are router specifications and technology. This means that new technology will just keep coming and changing Wi-Fi as we know it today. So, if you buy a super expensive router but a few weeks later something better comes by, you won’t be so happy with your purchase.
Wireless routers can have prices ranging from $15 to $400. Here are some wireless routers that are considered budget-friendly.
- Asus RT-AC66U B1 Dual-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router, $93.99
- Linksys EA6350 AC1200+ Dual-Band Smart Wi-Fi Wireless Router, $78.27
- TP-Link Archer AX50 (AX3000) Dual Band Gigabit Wi-Fi 6 Router, $129.99
- TP-Link Archer C7 AC1750 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router (V2), $59.99
Check Your Router’s Range
A router’s range is very important to a good connection and speed. But this is a factor that is often overlooked by users. When positioning your router, make sure it’s placed in a central location where wireless signals can reach anywhere easily. Also, make sure the router isn’t blocked by anything. If your wireless is placed in far-flung areas of the house, there’s a good chance its signals will be weak and slow. But sometimes even with good positioning wireless signals can be sluggish. You can use a heat map software to remedy this. This software helps maximize wireless coverage. But if nothing works, buying reasonably prices routers along with power-line adapters will help. They don’t cost too much and with the amount of money you’re paying, they work great. Plus, they work great for routers.
Consider Buying Smart Routers
Technology has changed the face of the earth. Literally. And it continues to influence connections and the internet. Today, smart routers look like devices from the future. With these routers, it’s easier to control your home network. Plus, you can prioritize bandwidth for movie streaming, video games, and much more. Here are some examples of smart routers:
- Google’s OnHub routers
- Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Routers
