Q1. First Understand the term, what is Router?
Ans. A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. Routers perform the traffic-directing functions on the Internet. Data sent through the internet, such as a web page or email, is in the form of data packets. A packet is typically forwarded from one router to another router through the networks that constitute an internetwork (e.g., the Internet) until it reaches its destination node.
Table of Contents: -
1. Wi-Fi Standards
2. Processing Power and RAM
3. Security Features
4. Quality of Service (QoS) and MU-MIMO
5. Mesh Compatibility
6. Ports and Connectivity
7. Pros and cons of Router
8. List of Top Recommended Routers
9. Overview of the Recommended Router list
10. Manufacturer Reputation and Support
11. Price vs. Needs
12. Conclusion
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Wi-Fi Standards:
In recent years, Wi-Fi 6 has been a major development, offering better performance in congested areas and improvements in speed, range, and overall capacity. By 2024, there might be further developments or optimizations in this standard or even early adoption of the next standard.
2. Processing Power and RAM:
A robust processor and ample RAM are critical for handling multiple devices, high-speed data traffic, and advanced features. This is especially important if you have a busy network with many connected devices, engage in tasks like 4K streaming, or gaming, or if you use VPNs frequently.
3. Security Features:
With the increasing threats in the cyber world, ensure the router has advanced security features. This could include a built-in firewall, VPN support, guest networks, and possibly subscription-based security enhancements that protect us against malware and phishing.
Malware: " It refers to any software specifically designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise any computer, server, client, or computer network".
Phishing: Phishing is a cybercrime in which targets are contacted by email, telephone, or text message by someone posing as a legitimate institution or individual to lure the targets into providing sensitive data, such as personal information, banking and credit card details, and passwords.
4. Quality of Service (QoS) and MU-MIMO:
QoS lets you prioritize how your bandwidth is used (e.g., giving streaming or gaming traffic priority). MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple Input, Multiple Output) allows multiple devices to get high-bandwidth Wi-Fi signals at the same time.
5. Mesh Compatibility:
For larger homes or challenging layouts, mesh systems that use multiple nodes can provide better coverage than traditional single-point routers. If you're considering a mesh system, look for ease of setup, seamless roaming capabilities, and tri-band technology, which dedicates one band to backhaul communication between nodes.
6. Ports and Connectivity:
Check the number and type of ports. Gigabit Ethernet ports are standard, but having multi-gig ports can be a boon if you have a high-speed internet plan or for direct-attached storage. USB ports can also be useful for shared printers or storage.
7. Pros and cons of Router:
Prons of router-
1. Connectivity and Sharing:
Routers allow multiple devices in a network to connect to the Internet using a single ISP connection, enabling resource sharing.
2. Wireless Access:
Modern routers often have built-in wireless capabilities, enabling Wi-Fi connectivity for mobile devices without needing wired connections.
3. Security:
Routers usually come with built-in firewalls that help shield internal networks from potential external threats.
They can offer VPN support, allowing secure remote access.
They can separate guest networks from primary networks, limiting access to main resources.
4. Network Management:
Routers provide features like Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize traffic, ensuring smooth experiences for high-priority tasks.
They can manage local IP address assignments through DHCP.
5. Flexibility and Scalability:
Routers can be used to extend networks, manage traffic between subnets, or connect to different ISP technologies (e.g., fiber, DSL, cable).
6. Port Forwarding and NAT:
Network Address Translation (NAT) allows private IP addresses in a local network to be translated into a single public IP address for Internet communication.
Port forwarding can be configured to direct external requests to specific internal devices, useful for hosting services or games.
Cons of router-
1. Complexity:
Routers, especially enterprise-level ones, can be complex to configure and require knowledge of networking concepts.
2. Security Concerns:
If not regularly updated or configured properly, routers can become security vulnerabilities.
Older or cheaper routers might not support the latest security protocols or updates.
3. Potential Performance Issues:
The speed and performance of a router can be a bottleneck if it's not capable of handling the Internet speeds provided by the ISP or the traffic demands of the local network.
4. Cost:
High-end routers with advanced features can be expensive.
5. Interference and Range Limitations (for Wi-Fi routers):
Other electronic devices or physical barriers can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal.
The range of wireless routers can be limited, requiring extenders or mesh systems for larger areas.
6. Limited Lifespan:
Like all electronics, routers can become outdated, suffer from wear and tear, or become less efficient over time.
7. Vendor Lock-in:
Some features or settings might be proprietary, making it challenging to switch brands or integrate with other network equipment.
8. Recommended Routers:
Netgear Nighthawk AX12 (RAX120)
Asus RT-AX88U
TP-Link Archer AX6000
Orbi Wi-Fi 6 (RBK852)
Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000
Google Nest Wi-Fi
Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Machine
9. Overview of the Recommended Router list:
1. Netgear Nighthawk AX12 (RAX120): The Netgear Nighthawk AX12 (RAX120) is one of the routers from Netgear's Nighthawk series, which is known for high-performance hardware and a broad set of features.
1. Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Support:
Wi-Fi 6 is the latest Wi-Fi standard, which provides better speed, improved efficiency, and better performance in environments with many connected devices.
2. Performance & Speed:
Supports a total data rate of up to 6Gbps (combined).
Designed for ultra-fast wireless speeds, making it suitable for activities like 4K/8K streaming, online gaming, and VR/AR use.
3. Design:
Unique winged design, which is not only aesthetic but also functional in terms of antenna placement.
The antennas are concealed within the wings, and the design promotes optimized Wi-Fi performance.
4. Connectivity:
Offers five Gigabit Ethernet ports (1 WAN & 4 LAN) for wired connections.
Features a multi-gig Ethernet port (up to 5G) for faster wired connections, suitable for network-attached storage (NAS) devices or multi-gig Internet plans.
5. Processor & Memory:
Powered by a 64-bit 2.2GHz quad-core processor to ensure smooth performance even under heavy network load.
Sufficient RAM and flash memory to handle various tasks efficiently.
6. Security:
Comes with standard WPA3 security, the latest Wi-Fi security protocol.
Offers a VPN support, guest network features, and the ability to monitor network traffic.
Includes Netgear Armor, a cybersecurity solution that provides anti-virus, anti-malware, and data protection for an unlimited number of devices.
2. Asus RT-AX88U: The Asus RT-AX88U is one of Asus's flagship routers, known for its high performance and rich feature set, especially at the time of its release.
1. Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Support:
The router supports Wi-Fi 6, the then-latest Wi-Fi standard. This means better speed, improved efficiency, and better performance in environments with many connected devices compared to previous Wi-Fi standards.
2. High Speeds:
It is designed for very high-speed wireless connections, with a total theoretical combined speed of up to 6000 Mbps (574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 4804 Mbps on the 5GHz band).
3. MU-MIMO and OFDMA:
MU-MIMO allows multiple devices to get high-bandwidth Wi-Fi signals at the same time.
OFDMA improves efficiency in high-density scenarios.
4. 8 Gigabit LAN Ports:
Unlike many routers that usually come with 4 LAN ports, the RT-AX88U features 8 Gigabit LAN ports. This is beneficial for wired devices and local networking.
5. Ai Protection Pro:
This is Asus's security solution, powered by Trend Micro, which offers features like parental controls and protection from internet threats.
6. Adaptive QoS:
Quality of Service (QoS) settings allow for traffic prioritization, ensuring that high-priority tasks (like gaming or streaming) get the bandwidth they need.
7. AiMesh Support:
The router supports Asus's AiMesh system, allowing you to use multiple Asus routers to create a mesh network for better coverage.
8. USB Ports:
It comes equipped with both USB 3.1 and USB 2.0 ports, allowing for shared printers, storage devices, or even cellular backup connectivity.
3. TP-Link Archer AX6000: The TP-Link Archer AX6000 is one of TP-Link's advanced routers designed to offer high-speed performance, especially given the rise in devices and services demanding better and faster internet connections.
1. Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Support:
This router supports Wi-Fi 6, a newer wireless standard known for better speed, efficiency, and handling a greater number of connected devices than its predecessor, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
2. High Speeds:
It boasts impressive speeds with a combined theoretical maximum of up to 5952 Mbps (1148 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 4804 Mbps on the 5GHz band).
3. MU-MIMO and OFDMA:
MU-MIMO technology ensures multiple devices can get high-bandwidth signals simultaneously, reducing wait time and speeding up connections.
OFDMA helps in increasing efficiency, especially in high-density environments.
4. Eight Gigabit LAN Ports:
For wired connections, the AX6000 offers eight Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports.
5. Dual USB Ports:
It includes a USB-C 3.0 port and a USB-A 3.0 port, useful for sharing content across the network, whether from a hard drive, flash drive, or other devices.
6. Advanced Security:
TP-Link Home Care offers a suite of security features, including parental controls, QoS, and built-in antivirus powered by Trend Micro.
7. Powerful Processing:
The router is equipped with a 1.8 GHz quad-core processor, designed to handle a large amount of data and provide stable performance.
4. Orbi Wi-Fi 6 (RBK852): The Orbi Wi-Fi 6 (RBK852) by NETGEAR is a part of the Orbi product line, which is known for its mesh Wi-Fi systems designed to provide seamless and extensive Wi-Fi coverage throughout homes. The RBK852, specifically, brings the benefits of Wi-Fi 6 to the Orbi family.
1. Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Support:
This system is designed to utilize the Wi-Fi 6 standard, which is known for better performance, especially in environments with numerous connected devices.
2. Mesh System:
The RBK852 package typically comes with one main router and one satellite, creating a mesh network that ensures broader and more seamless coverage, even in large homes.
3. High Speeds:
It promises a combined speed of up to 6 Gbps across the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, catering to over 100 devices.
4. Dedicated Backhaul:
The system uses a dedicated 4x4 Wi-Fi 6 backhaul for communication between the router and the satellite, ensuring the main network remains fast and uncongested.
5. Tri-band System:
Beyond the dedicated backhaul, the Orbi RBK852 offers tri-band capabilities, allowing more devices to connect without causing a network slowdown.
6. NETGEAR Armor:
This is NETGEAR's cybersecurity solution, which offers protection against viruses, malware, and other internet threats for connected devices.
7. Easy Setup and Management:
The Orbi app makes the setup process straightforward and provides easy network management options, such as pausing the internet, running speed tests, and monitoring network traffic.
5. Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000: The Asus ROG (Republic of Gamers) Rapture GT-AX11000 is one of the most high-end routers from Asus, tailored specifically for gamers and those seeking the very top-tier performance from their home network.
1. Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Support:
This router fully supports Wi-Fi 6, the advanced Wi-Fi standard, ensuring faster speeds, higher efficiency, and better performance in environments with many connected devices.
2. Exceptional Speeds:
The router boasts a total theoretical bandwidth of up to 11000 Mbps, split across one 2.4GHz and two 5GHz bands.
3. Dedicated Gaming Band:
One of the 5GHz bands can be reserved exclusively for gaming, ensuring that gaming traffic doesn't compete with other network traffic.
4. Gaming Features:
The router offers a Game Boost feature, WTFast game accelerator, and a VPN Fusion feature, which allows gamers to use a VPN for their game without affecting other devices on the network.
5. Tri-band System:
With three separate bands, it can manage multiple devices more efficiently.
6. Powerful Hardware:
The GT-AX11000 boasts a 1.8 GHz quad-core CPU, ensuring smooth network operations even under heavy load.
7. ROG-Themed User Interface:
The router's software interface is designed with gamers in mind, making it easy to find and adjust gaming-related settings.
8. AiMesh Support:
It's compatible with Asus AiMesh, allowing users to create a mesh network with other Asus routers for better coverage.
9. Advanced Security:
Ai Protection Pro, powered by Trend Micro, offers robust security features and parental controls.
6. Google Nest Wi-Fi: The Google Nest Wi-Fi, which succeeded the Google Wi-Fi system, is Google's mesh networking solution designed to provide extended, seamless coverage throughout a home.
1. Mesh System:
Google Nest Wi-Fi operates as a mesh system, where a primary router is paired with one or more 'points' to create widespread coverage in your home. This system aims to eliminate dead zones and provide consistent Wi-Fi strength throughout the residence.
2. Integrated Google Assistant:
Some configurations of the Nest Wi-Fi points double as smart speakers with Google Assistant built-in. This means they not only expand your Wi-Fi coverage but also let you play music, control smart home devices, and more.
3. Simple Setup and Management:
Using the Google Home app, the setup process is user-friendly and intuitive. It allows users to easily create guest networks, prioritize devices, set up parental controls, and more.
4. Automatic Updates:
Nest Wi-Fi is designed to update its software automatically, ensuring that the system remains secure and up-to-date without user intervention.
5. Scalability:
Depending on the size of your home or the extent of coverage you need, you can easily add more Nest Wi-Fi points.
6. Performance:
While designed with simplicity in mind, the system still offers strong performance suitable for everyday tasks, streaming, and general internet usage.
7. Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Machine: The Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Machine (UDM) is a product from Ubiquiti Networks, a company well-regarded for its enterprise and prosumer-grade networking equipment. The UDM is part of the UniFi series and is designed to bring some of the brand's more advanced networking features to a wider audience, including home users and small businesses.
1. All-in-One Device:
The UDM combines multiple devices into one. It serves as a router, a switch (with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports), an advanced security gateway, and a Wi-Fi access point.
2. Integrated Cloud Key:
The device has a built-in UniFi controller (akin to the separate Cloud Key product), which allows users to manage their network through the UniFi software, either locally or remotely.
3. Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) Wave 2:
As of my last update, the UDM offers support for Wi-Fi 5 with Wave 2 technology, ensuring decent wireless performance and handling of multiple devices.
4. Integrated Security Features:
The UDM has features like Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) and Intrusion Detection System (IDS) to monitor and protect the network from potential threats.
5. Easy to Use UI:
The UniFi software offers a clean and intuitive interface for users, making it easier to configure and monitor the network.
6. High Performance:
The UDM is equipped with a 1.7 GHz quad-core processor, designed to handle multiple tasks efficiently.
10. Manufacturer Reputation and Support:
Brands that have a history of regular firmware updates and good customer support are preferable. Security vulnerabilities can emerge, so timely firmware updates are crucial.
11. Price vs. Needs:
The most expensive router isn't always the best for everyone. Align your purchase with your needs, the size of your home, the number of devices you have.
12. Conclusion:
Keep these considerations in mind when evaluating any router. Stay updated by checking reputable tech websites for their current year's recommendations, user reviews, and comparison benchmarks. This will ensure you choose a router that offers the best value, performance, and security for your needs.
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. What makes a router "the best" for a user?
Answer: The "best" router depends on a user's individual needs. Factors like the size of the area needing coverage, the number of devices connecting, usage habits (like gaming or streaming), and budget all play a part in determining the best router for a specific user.
Q2. Why are some routers more expensive than others?
Answer: Price variations can be due to factors like advanced features, hardware quality, brand reputation, Wi-Fi standards (like Wi-Fi 6), and the inclusion of additional security features or mesh capabilities.
Q3. Is it better to buy a router/modem combo or separate devices?
Answer: Combo devices are convenient and save space. However, separate devices can provide more flexibility, especially if one component fails or if you wish to upgrade just one device in the future.
Q4. Can I use two routers in my home?
Answer: Yes, you can use multiple routers, either to extend the range of your network or to create separate networks. Proper configuration is essential to prevent network issues.