1. Router WiFi standard
As time goes by, technologies develop and WiFi technology is no exception – the most modern 802.11ax (WiFi 6) technology is capable of developing speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps. The new WiFi standard introduces several advantages, for example, 802.11ax technology significantly improves the stability and speed of the connection, as well as better transmits the signal through walls, thus improving the coverage. In addition, 802.11ax WiFi routers are capable of transmitting at 6 GHz, which is currently only used by a few devices, but 6 GHz WiFi is sure to become more popular in the future.
Currently, 802.11ax routers are quite expensive, as with all new technologies, however, if the budget allows, then a router with the latest WiFi standard will be a good investment. Currently, the most common WiFi standard is 802.11ac, and these routers can provide up to 1300 Mbps, which is still a respectable speed. 802.11ac routers operate on both the traditional 2.4GHz frequency and the fast 5Ghz frequency, and 802.11ac routers are cheaper, making them a good budget option. We do not recommend buying routers with 802.11n or older standard, as this technology is already outdated.
2. Quantity of lanes
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Today, most routers operate on two frequencies, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The main differences between these two frequencies are coverage and speed. Many other devices operate on the 2.4Ghz frequency, so it is slower, however, the 2.4Ghz frequency provides better coverage. On the other hand, there are not as many devices operating at the 5 Ghz frequency, so it provides a faster connection, however, in places further from the router, the coverage is not so good.
Currently, there are traditional single-band routers that operate only at 2.4 Ghz and dual-band (dual band) routers that operate on both 2.4Ghz and the fast 5Ghz frequency. We recommend purchasing a dual-band router, as it will provide a 2.4Ghz connection for older devices, as well as a fast 5Ghz connection for your more modern devices. A new feature are three-band routers that offer an additional 6 Ghz frequency or two 5 Ghz channels. This will be the fastest router – the price for one is much higher.
3. Coverage
A wireless router with good coverage will ensure that the connection will be stable and fast in any room of the house. Pay attention to whether the particular model has a good coating to avoid an unstable connection. A WiFi router with external antennas will provide better coverage, and the more antennas, the better the internet coverage.
4. Beamforming technology
A traditional Internet router sends the signal in all directions, which is not very efficient, especially in situations where several devices are connected to the router. The latest WiFi routers use modern beamforming and MU-MIMO technology, which targets the signal directly towards the devices, ensuring better coverage quality and faster connection.
5. Security features
A secure router is also a powerful WiFi router, because then your Internet connection will not be able to be used by uninvited guests. We recommend purchasing a router with extensive security features such as WPA2 or WPA3 encryption to avoid hacker attacks.
6. Router with SIM card
4G router and 5G router use mobile internet to provide internet access, making it a good choice where traditional internet connection is poor or not available at all. WiFi routers with mobile Internet are becoming more and more common, because they can be carried and taken with you to the summer house – only a SIM card and a connection are required.
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A modern WiFi router with the latest technologies will ensure stable and fast internet in your home. If you are planning to buy a new router, don’t miss the 1a.lv offer, where you will find a wide range of WiFi routers at favorable prices!