Looking to upgrade your Wi-Fi router to a strong and reliable one? You’ve come to the right place. If you’ve been frustrated with slow loading Internet during zoom calls and gaming nights, it’s time to go for a new router.
But picking a Wi-Fi router can be daunting with the number of brands available in the market. So, to make it easy for you, we’ve listed the 5 most important things to keep in mind before picking the right one for your house.
5 Main Things to Consider When Looking for a Wi-Fi Router for Your Home
We’ve narrowed down 5 things to consider before buying a router. Most of the time, your Internet Service Provider will most likely provide you with a modem-cum-router as an equipment rental.
You can choose to use that or one of your own. Either way, the below five factors will help you pick the best one.
1. Speed
You lose your productivity and have a terrible day if your Internet is slow. And if you’re unable to respond to your manager on time or face issues on a game night, it’s even worse. So, speed is essential when picking a Wi-Fi router for your home.
You need to ensure the router can deliver greater bandwidth and cover a wider area. That way, all the devices connected to the Internet will be able to access content quickly and not deal with slow loading times.
2. Security
You don’t want hackers prying in. Ensure your router has a firewall and advanced firmware features for enhanced digital security.
For stronger encryptions, go with Wifi-protected access protocols such as WPA, WPA2, or WPE. These protocols are created for the sole purpose of protecting wireless network systems.
3. Single band, dual and tri-band routers
Single-band is an idea for small houses, and tri-band is best for large homes with multi-stories. Here’s why. Though a single band covers large areas, the speed of the Internet will be slow when many devices are connected.
If many people use the Internet simultaneously and a moderately large house, a dual-band router works the best. While a single band wi-fi router operated at 2.5Ghz, a dual-band works at 2.5GHz as well as 5GHz.
Dual-band routers offer more speed and broader coverage, and a tri-band router is unmatchable. If the Internet usage is significantly high and you live in a multi-storied building, tri-band routers are the best. Else, you can stick to a single or dual-band routers.
4. Range
You should be able to get high-speed Internet whether you’re in your living room or your porch and for that, getting a router with a good range matters.
So, you need to place the router at a central location in your house for zero interruptions. You can, however, extend the network with powerline adapters. Sometimes the signal just does not reach every corner of the house due to obstructions such as walls.
5. USB Ports
A router with the availability of USB ports helps connect a printer and devices like flash drives. This, without reducing the speed for other devices.
However, if you have a printer that already has wireless capabilities incorporated, you need not worry about USB ports. If it doesn’t, you better go with a router that allows you to connect to other devices for better Internet usage.
A Wi-Fi Router is Only As Good as the Wireless Internet Connection
Don’t discard your old router if you wish to buy a new one. You can add power-line adapters, extend it, and use it as a wireless bridge. When purchasing a new router, keep in mind the price and ensure you don’t end up spending more than needed for your home.
If your usage is minimal, you don’t have to go with a high-grade router. An average Wi-Fi router with decent coverage and good speed works the best. Assess your daily Internet consumption and invest in one depending on your budget.
If you’re planning to switch to an advanced Wi-Fi router for your home, we can help you pick the best one. Want to know how? Reach out to us today!
