If you're looking to set up a new network in your home or office, you'll need to choose the best router for the job. There are a few things to consider when making your decision, including compatibility with your ISP, wireless protocols, and optional features.
In this article, we'll guide you through everything you need to know about choosing the best router for your needs.
What is a Router?
A router is a device that basically connects your network to the internet. It routes traffic between your devices and the internet, allowing you to surf the web, stream video, and download files. Most routers also include wireless capabilities, so you can connect to the internet without running cables everywhere.
Alternatives to a New Router
There are a few alternatives to buying a new router, depending on your needs.
Wi-Fi Repeaters: If you're looking for better coverage but don't need any extra features, a Wi-Fi repeater may be a good option. A repeater picks up the signal from your existing router and amplifies it, extending the range of your network.
Power Line Adapters: If you don't have a lot of free space to run cables, power line adapters may be a good alternative. These adapters use your home's electrical wiring to create a network connection, allowing you to connect devices without wires.
MoCA (Multimedia over Coax Alliance): MoCA is a technology that uses your home's coaxial cables to create a network connection. This can be a good option if your home has already been wired for cable TV and you want to use that infrastructure for networking.
Access Points: If you need more ports or want to extend the range of your wireless network, an access point may be a good option. Access points allow you to connect devices like printers and storage drives to your network, and they can also extend the range of your wireless signal.
Wi-Fi Standards Explained
The 802.11 standard is the most common wireless protocol in use today. There are a few different versions of 802.11, and they offer different speeds and ranges.
802.11a: This version of 802.11 was the first to be released, and it offers speeds up to 54Mbps. It operates in the 5GHz frequency band, so it doesn't interfere with other devices like cordless phones that operate in the 2.4GHz band. The downside to 802.11a is that it has a shorter range than other protocols, so it's not ideal for large homes or offices.
802.11b: This version of 802.11 was released shortly after 802.11a, and it offers speeds up to 11Mbps. It operates in the 2.4GHz frequency band, interfering with other devices. The upside to 802.11b is that it has a more extended range than 802.11a, making it ideal for large homes and offices.
802.11g: This version of 802.11 was released in 2003, and it offers speeds up to 54Mbps like 802.11a. It also operates in the 2.4GHz frequency band, but it uses a different modulation technique to coexist with devices that use 802.11b.
802.11n: This version of 802.11 was released in 2009, and it offers speeds up to 600Mbps. It operates in both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands to avoid interference from other devices. 802.11n also uses multiple antennas to improve performance, making it ideal for large homes and offices.
802.11ac: This version of 802.11 was released in 2013, and it offers speeds up to 1.3Gbps. It operates in the 5GHz frequency band, so it doesn't interfere with other devices. 802.11ac also uses multiple antennas and a wider channel width than 802.11n, making it ideal for large homes and offices.
802.11ax: This is the latest version of 802.11, and it offers speeds up to 10Gbps. It operates in the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands to avoid interference from other devices. 802.11ax also uses multiple antennas and a wider channel width than 802.11ac, making it ideal for large homes and offices.
If you're unsure which standard is suitable for you, your best bet is to go with 802.11ax, which offers the fastest speeds and the most comprehensive range.
Choosing the Best Router for Your Network
So, how to choose the best router for your network?
Check to See If Your New Router is Compatible With Your ISP
If you're looking to upgrade your router, it's essential to ensure that it's compatible with your ISP. There are a few different ways to do this:
1. Firstly, check with your ISP to see any recommended models.
2. Secondly, take a look at the documentation for your current router. It should list the compatible ISPs.
3. Finally, you can always reach out to customer support for your chosen router manufacturer and ask them if the model you're interested in is compatible with your ISP.
Look For a Newer Wireless Protocol
The 802.11ax wireless protocol is the latest and most advanced standard for routers. It offers faster speeds and a better range than older protocols, so it's an excellent option to consider if you're looking to upgrade your router.
Not all routers support the 802.11ax protocol, but a growing number of models do. If you're not sure what protocol your router uses, check the documentation or contact the manufacturer for more information.
Don't Forget Optional Features
When choosing a new Cisco router, it's essential to consider all of the available features. Some of the most essential features might include:
Beamforming: This allows your router to focus its signal in a specific direction, which can help improve range and reduce interference.
Quality of Service (QOS): This feature allows you to prioritise certain types of traffic, like video streaming or gaming, so that they always have enough bandwidth.
Multi-User, Multi-Input, Multi-Output (MU-MIMO): This allows your router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, which can help improve speeds and reduce latency.
Consider How Much You Want to Spend On a Router
There is a wide range of prices for routers on the market, so it's essential to consider how much you're willing to spend before making your purchase.
In general, more expensive routers will offer better performance and more features than cheaper models. However, there are plenty of great options available at all price points, so you should be able to find something that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Make Sure Your Router Supports the Internet Speed You Pay For
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a router is whether or not it supports the internet speed you pay for. If your router can't handle the speeds your ISP offers, you'll never be able to take full advantage of your connection. Check the documentation or contact the manufacturer to determine what speeds your router supports.
Use Mesh Wi-Fi or Extenders to Spread Wi-Fi Through Your House
If you're having trouble getting a strong signal throughout your home, you may want to consider using a mesh Wi-Fi system or extenders. These devices can help spread your Wi-Fi signal more evenly throughout your house, so you can enjoy a better experience no matter where you are.
Conclusion
Choosing the best router for your needs doesn't have to be difficult. Just make sure to consider compatibility with your ISP, wireless protocols, and optional features. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect router for your home or office.
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