Wi-Fi router for dummies: purpose, operating principle, device connection. What to look for when choosing a Wi-Fi router, the best models

Briefly about the main thing

Let's say right away that each person chooses a router that meets his requirements. Gamers will need a stable model that has high data transfer speeds. A mid-price device is suitable for office work. But so that you understand where to start choosing and what most people focus on, we suggest reading our recommendations and looking at the results of the survey.

The best router for home

What can’t a modern person live without? Without water, food and... internet. Having access to the World Wide Web, we search for the necessary information in it, work, relax, communicate, study, and discover new opportunities. And in order not to be tied to a specific place in the house or office where there is an Internet connection cable, you need to use a Wi-Fi router.

Manufacturers offer different models, including those with designer designs. But the router must be reliable! This is the only way to ensure uninterrupted and constant access to the Internet. Therefore, to make your life easier in the future, you need to choose the best Wi-Fi router available in stores today. And we will help you with this.

Top 10 routers of 2018

Name	Wi-Fi frequency	WAN speed	LAN port speed	LAN ports	USB ports	Price
	802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4/5 GHz)	1167 Mbit/s	100 Mbit/s	2	1	Check price
T	802.11n (2.4 GHz)	300 Mbit/s	—	—	—	Check price
	802.11n (2.4/5 GHz)	300 Mbit/s	1000 Mbit/s	4	2	Check price
Budget models
	802.11n (2.4 GHz)	300 Mbit/s	100 Mbit/s	4	—	Check price
	802.11n	150 Mbit/s	100 Mbit/s	4	—	Check price
	802.11n (2.4 GHz)	300 Mbit/s	100 Mbit/s	4	—	Check price
	802.11n (2.4 GHz)	300 Mbit/s	100 Mbit/s	3	—	Check price
	802.11n (2.4 GHz)	150 Mbit/s	100 Mbit/s	4	—	Check price

When choosing these models, we relied on various criteria:

• user recommendations in online stores and review sites;
• prices;
• options;
• functionality;
• common sense (so that the purchase is truly useful).

Why are there no expensive models on our list?

We do not consider this a luxury, since such routers have wide functionality. But the average user will not overpay for appearance or options that they do not use.

How should you choose?

To give advice, you need to understand how an ordinary person answers the question: “How to choose a router?” To do this, just read user reviews of the device installed in their home. This is exactly what we did.

Most users named the stability of the device as the main criterion. Regardless of the requirements or operating conditions, this characteristic was the main one. An equally important parameter is the data transfer speed. This is another criterion that was emphasized in the reviews.

We also believe that ease of setup is important too. Especially for the fair sex, who often have to choose and operate equipment on their own. Sometimes you end up with something like this :)

To confirm our findings, we conducted a small survey. It was attended by users of social networks and visitors to our website. In total, about 150 people were interviewed. They were asked one question: “The most important parameters of a Wi-Fi router” and several answer options:

• data transfer speed (36.6%);
• stability (41.6%);
• safety (9.2%);
• range of transmitted frequencies (1.8%);
• ease of setup (2.5%);
• price (3.3%);
• I don’t pay attention to the criteria (5%).

As a result, as we expected, stability and data transfer speed are the main criteria when choosing a Wi-Fi router.

Characteristics

At the same time, there are a few more important characteristics that you need to pay attention to when choosing a Wi-Fi router.

Data transfer rate

Not the most important parameter, because theoretically even budget options have data transfer speeds of up to 150 Mbit/s over a Wi-Fi channel. It all depends on what speed your provider provides. With an Internet speed of 20-50 Mbit/s, it makes no sense to buy a router with information transfer rates at speeds of 300-1300 Mbit/s.

The most common standard today is the 2.4 GHz frequency. But due to the fact that it is heavily overloaded, this negatively affects the quality of the Wi-Fi signal. The 5 GHz frequency standard is less popular, but not all models support it. Devices of the middle and high price segment simultaneously operate at frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz.

Number of antennas

There are models with internal and external antennas. The number of antennas does not increase the propagation range of the Wi-Fi signal, but does affect its stability. The best option today is routers with two external antennas.

Operation stability

This indicator is affected by the router software and the number of antennas. The device firmware must be constantly updated, so it is better to buy devices from well-known and trusted manufacturers who provide technical support for the released equipment even after several years.

Wi-Fi network protection

Most models use the following safety standards:

• WEP (minimum reliability);
• WPA (encryption key length up to 128 bits - TKIP technology);
• WPA2 (encryption key length up to 256 bits - AES technology) is the most reliable standard.

The best models for home

Important! Choosing a router for a home or apartment is no different, because modern buildings have the same structural characteristics and are made from the same materials. Therefore, all the models presented in this list are perfect for use in the house and apartment.

The choice of a Wi-Fi router for the home is different in each individual case, because the user is based on his preferences, considerations and requirements. The devices presented below, in our opinion, are the best choice in terms of quality/stability/price ratio.

Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi mini

The best choice!

The best solution in terms of price/quality/performance ratio. A model that supports the 802.11a/b/g/n/ac data transfer standard at speeds up to 1167 Mbps, which is a nice addition. The manufacturer offers two firmware options: standard and for developers (has a larger set of functions and access to the router console via ssh). But in both cases it is presented in Chinese.

The USB port is used to connect an external hard drive. A minimal set of options is provided to control it. But the user, using the built-in utilities for the router, can autonomously download files to an external drive by following links to them.

If you have problems accessing the Internet, you can use the standard connection diagnostic utility.

Advantages

• design;
• affordable price;
• WAN speed 1167 Mbit/s;
• the ability to connect an external drive;
• a large set of settings and capabilities in the firmware.

Flaws

• instructions and interface in Chinese;
• two LAN ports;
• LAN port speed 100 Mbit/s.

TP-LINK TL-WA901ND

An equally good purchase would be the Tp-Link TL-WA901ND model. Its main feature is support for the PoE standard, with which power can be supplied to the router via an Ethernet cable. For this purpose, a special adapter is supplied with the device.

The advantages of the device include three removable antennas, which increase the stability of the device with a signal propagation range in open areas - up to 270 meters.

The main disadvantage of the TP-LINK TL-WA901ND model is the lack of LAN ports for connecting computers and laptops. In addition, as users note, it periodically freezes, which is why the router has to be rebooted.

Advantages

• design;
• three removable antennas;
• ease of setup;
• Wi-Fi network range;
• PoE technology.

Flaws

• lack of LAN ports;
• freezing.

ASUS RT-N56U

At first glance, the model catches your eye because it is made in the original case. At the same time, support for two frequency bands (2.4 and 5 GHz) allows it to work stably even in homes with a lot of interference in the absence of external antennas. The data transfer speed via LAN ports is up to 1 Gbit/s, which is very convenient in modern conditions.

The presence of two USB ports increases the functionality of the model, as they allow you to connect an external drive. But the data transfer speed on the HDD is at the level of 14-16 and 10-12 MB/s when reading and writing, so using it to work with large files will be problematic.

The lack of PoE technology limits the mobility of the device, but with such great functionality, the router needs an uninterrupted and powerful power source.

Advantages

• design;
• LAN speed 1000 Mbit/s;
• WAN speed 300 Mbit/s;
• two USB ports;
• ease of setup;
• great functionality.

Flaws

• USB port speed 10-16 MB/s;
• It is not recommended to use external drives with a capacity of more than 1 TB.

Top 5 routers in the budget segment

In this list, we presented budget segment routers, the cost of which will please any buyer, but in use they showed themselves to be good, working stably, reliably and without any complaints from users.

TP-LINK TL-WR841N

Budget router models are devoid of any frills, so it’s difficult to talk about their advantages and disadvantages. The main difference between the TP-LINK TL-WR841N model and other inexpensive devices is the setup interface. It is almost identical to the top models and has a clear structure. Therefore, setting up the gadget will not be difficult even for an inexperienced user.

But the limited speed of the LAN ports (100 Mbit/s) and the low data transfer speed over the Wi-Fi network will not allow you to use it to the maximum under heavy loads. This means that it is not suitable for installation in an office.

Advantages

• low cost;
• easy setup;
• clear interface;
• compact sizes.

Flaws

• low data transfer speed;
• job instability;

D-link DIR-300/A/D1

What immediately catches your eye when examining this router is the speed of data transfer over the wireless network. This should alert any buyer, since today some users have access to the Internet at a speed of 1 Gbit/s, for which this model is completely unsuitable. In addition, it has a short range.

But its main advantage is its stylish, modern, interesting design and the WPS button placed on the side, making connecting any gadget convenient and easy. Therefore, the optimal place to use this model is at home.

Advantages

• low cost;
• stylish design

Flaws

• low data transfer speed;
• limited scope of use.

Netis WF2419E

The best choice!

Despite the fact that the device is made in China and belongs to the budget price segment, its build quality is very good. In addition, the factory firmware provides wide functionality of the device, which is not standard for inexpensive models. Therefore, it is perfect for use both at home and in the office.

The router provides high speed data transfer over wired and wireless networks. Given its low cost, this is a huge advantage. In general, the model has proven itself well, as evidenced by the huge number of positive reviews.

Advantages

• low cost;
• high data transfer speed;
• easy setup;
• stable work;
• functionality.

Flaws

• LAN port speed is 100 Mbit/s (although it’s difficult to call this a disadvantage).

Tenda N301

The compact body of the Tenda N301 model makes it easy to install almost anywhere in the home or office. If we add to this the ease of network setup, the device is perfect for use at home even by inexperienced users.

The inability to wall mount the model may become an obstacle to use in some cases. But this is not a critical problem. Otherwise, the router is no different from other representatives of the budget segment, operating at a frequency of 2.4 GHz and having a Wi-Fi data transfer speed of up to 300 Mbit/s.

Advantages

• low cost;
• ease of setup;
• compact body.

Flaws

• unstable work;
• no wall mounting;
• weak signal.

ZyXEL Keenetic Start

This model is the younger “brother” of the ZyXEL Keenetic and differs from it in a smaller set of available options. In addition, it is difficult for it to cope with a large number of connected devices, so it is not suitable for use in an office or home where there are a huge number of devices with a Wi-Fi adapter. This is due to the weak processor used on the model.

The ease of setup will please any user. And the lack of heating and the fact that the router does not “cut” the speed distinguish it from many competitors in its segment. In addition, the affordable price makes ZyXEL Keenetic Start an excellent choice for a small house or one-room apartment.

Advantages

• low cost;
• ease of setup;
• does not overheat.

Flaws

• weak processor;
• weak signal;
• Freezes when connecting a large number of devices.

Mobile routers

If you do not have access to wired Internet, you can use mobile Wi-Fi routers that have a slot for connecting a SIM card. They connect to the wireless Internet via mobile communications, after which they “distribute” it to other devices. Check price

It’s worth noting right away that the router only works in 2G/3G networks, therefore it is limited in data transfer speed. In addition, the kit does not include a charger, but only a USB cable. But, on the other hand, this made it possible to reduce the cost of the model and make it more accessible to the user. In addition, sometimes the absence of an LCD display, which is equipped with the “older” model M5350, adds inconvenience.

Disadvantages also include the lack of a “modem” function when connected to a computer. But this is a router, so it should not work in this mode. Otherwise, the router has good technical characteristics, does not freeze, and receives the network well. And if you take into account the compact size, high-quality and non-stainable body, you can safely say that the device can be carried with you in your pocket anywhere.

Advantages

• compact dimensions;
• stable work;
• An adapter for SIM cards is included.

Flaws

• no power adapter;
• works in 2G/3G networks;
• no LCD display.

conclusions

As a result, we will try to answer the most frequently asked questions. They will help you finally decide which router to choose.

Why should you buy a router?

For a modern person, a Wi-Fi router is an everyday device that helps you access the Internet without being tied to a specific place. If we take into account the fact that the market for mobile devices is growing, and on the contrary, desktop PCs are decreasing, in the future it will be difficult to do without this device at work or at home.

Is it worth buying a cheap model?

Some users may say that buying a mid- or high-price Wi-Fi router is a waste of money. But, having encountered cheap models from my own experience, I made two conclusions.

Firstly, when using them, you will spend a lot of effort and nerves to achieve stable operation.

Secondly, after a while you may need to buy a new router, because the old one will simply stop working for no apparent reason.

Why should I buy exactly the routers described in the article?

We do not force you to buy them, but we recommend that you do so, because all the models described have proven themselves well. And we repeat once again: each person chooses a Wi-Fi router based on their needs and capabilities.

We tried to take into account all the wishes, preferences and main points that buyers pay attention to. And based on this, we presented a list of models that best meet all the requirements.

I think that even the reader who is far from technology has ever heard of wireless routers or, as they are called differently, routers. This device allows you to organize a local wireless network in your home or office, which unites several devices on the network and provides Internet access. Such devices on a home network can be desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, NAS, smart TVs and other equipment with wireless connectivity, even a multicooker. It is worth considering the fact that by implying a wireless connection, I do not rule out the possibility of using wires when operating the router.

Choosing the necessary model of wireless router is quite difficult, because there are many models of routers, and their cost can differ by several orders of magnitude. In this article I will talk about what characteristics you should pay attention to in this type of equipment so that the model has a minimum cost and meets your requirements.

It's no secret that equipment is a combination of a hardware platform and a software shell, and the most effective interaction between them can make a particular router an ideal purchase. The article will mostly focus on devices connected to the Internet using Ethernet technology, that is, using a standard network cable (twisted pair), but most of the information will be useful for DSL and optical connection users.

Specifications

Choosing a router: wired connection

Almost every router has LAN ports on board for connecting both wired devices and the operator’s Internet cable, with the exception of mobile routers that support cellular networks (3G or 4G) and Wi-Fi. For example, if you see the designation 1 × WAN + 4 × LAN, then this inscription indicates the presence of one LAN port for connecting to the provider (WAN) and four ports for connecting devices that will be used in your home network.

If you are faced with a lack of LAN ports when using a wired connection of devices to the router, then you can use network switches. They will expand the capabilities of your router: one router port will be able to accept two, four or more devices. The only thing that needs to be taken into account is that each wired client on the network requires its own port, and the cable length from the router to the network client is limited to 100 m.

As for such an important parameter as the data transfer speed when connecting devices wired to the router, everything is quite transparent here: 100 Mbit/s or 1000 Mbit/s (1 Gbit/s). When using a NAS server and powerful PCs in your home network, priority will be given to a wired connection with a speed of 1 Gbit/s.

A wired connection has an important advantage over a wireless one - it is a constant and maximum data transfer speed that does not depend on the activity of wireless equipment of neighboring networks and does not react so sharply over long distances, as well as other nuances of operation. The obvious disadvantage is the cable routing.

Choosing a router: wireless connection

The most important characteristics of a wireless router are the parameters of the access point installed in it:

• number of bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz;
• supported standards (802.11n and 802.11ac are relevant today);
• maximum connection speed.

Router ranges

There are currently two Wi-Fi bands in use: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. In a city environment in the 2.4 GHz band, you will encounter dozens of neighboring networks, which affects both the speed and stability of your connection, so I recommend dual-band devices (with support for two bands at once - 2.4 + 5 GHz), since The 5 GHz band is still relatively free. Please note that buying a dual-band router only makes sense if your clients have 5 GHz support on their home network. To put it simply, a dual-band router carries two independent radio modules on board, creating two independent access points. Clients, in turn, are able to connect to any of them, but only to one at a time.

Wi-Fi standards

Today we have two Wi-Fi standards:

• 802.11n, which is in mass demand and is capable of operating in two bands – 2.4 and 5 GHz;
• 802.11ac, which is gaining popularity and is supported by flagship devices, but only uses the 5 GHz band.

The 802.11ac standard boasts faster connection speeds. Please note that, as with range, clients on your home network must support these standards.

If you pay attention to the router’s connection speed in the technical specifications, you will see numbers that in practice are approximately two times lower. Don’t also forget that a wireless router shares all its speed between all connected clients on the home network. Thus, the more clients exchange data at the same time, the more each one's speed drops. Plus, there is a direct dependence of connection speed on distance and the presence of obstacles.

It is possible to estimate the connection speed when using the 802.11n standard by the number of antennas:

• 1 antenna – maximum speed 150 Mbit/s (both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz);
• 2 antennas – 300 Mbit/s;
• 3 antennas - 450 Mbit/s.

And as always, we should not forget about consistency with the characteristics of the client - the receiving device. Considering the fact that most smartphones have only one antenna, a 450 Mbps router can only be useful for them in terms of improved coverage, and not in terms of formal connection speed.

There is one more small nuance - some models of clients and routers have restrictions in the 2.4 GHz band. As a result, 150 Mbit/s is provided only when operating on a “wide channel” (designated “40 MHz” or “HT40”, the equipment uses two channels at once, and not one with increased bandwidth), but some devices, in the presence of neighboring networks, are capable provide only a 20 MHz channel, resulting in a connection speed of 65-72 Mbit/s per antenna.

Using the 802.11ac standard in a home network provides an advantage due to the ability to work simultaneously with four channels (“80 MHz”, “HT80”), thereby allowing 433 Mbit/s per antenna (867 Mbit/s for two antennas, 1300 Mbit /s to three antennas). As a result, on smartphones you can easily get 200 Mbit/s real speed for data exchange.

To fully cover the topic of wi-fi ranges and wireless standards, it is worth mentioning the consistency of the router’s characteristics with wired ports. If there is 100 Mbps on the WAN and LAN ports, using 802.11ac is not advisable, since it will not be able to fully “open up” on a mobile device when accessing the Internet or local network computers. It is no less curious that among the top routers there are devices with a not very correct name - . In fact, the router has one access point with a 2.4 GHz band and a pair at 5 GHz, in turn, the latter two operate on different sets of channels and do not interfere with each other, which theoretically can provide an increase in overall performance with the correct distribution of clients across different access points.

Choosing a router: antennas

An important characteristic that affects the quality of a wireless connection is the design of the antennas. Most router models have external antennas, and only a few devices are distinguished by the use of internal antennas in their design. In a city apartment or private house, you will not notice any clear advantage in routers with external antennas, so you can freely choose a router based on the design of the case. A design using external antennas can be useful if it is necessary to replace antennas with better ones or to move them away from the router body, but no one can guarantee an improvement in the situation.

If we talk about restrictions on the maximum number of simultaneously served clients, home router models usually do not have them. In practice, it is realistic to use up to 20 devices, but a lot will depend on the clients used and their requirements for speed and traffic volumes. Feel the difference between connecting five smartphones to view websites, and five IP cameras with high resolution and bitrate.

USB ports

As you probably already know, mid-range router models and most representatives of the upper segment have USB ports with versions 2.0 and/or 3.0.

USB ports in routers are needed for:

• connecting USB drives (for sharing files);
• printers or MFPs (for printing over a network from a PC and mobile devices);
• cellular modems with 3G or 4G (for backup or main Internet connection).

You can also use USB hubs (preferably active, with additional external power) to increase the number of simultaneously connected devices.
Possible expansions of the range of connected USB devices are determined by the router firmware. The presence of USB 3.0 is necessary only for working with large files on the corresponding version of USB drives - for other devices, USB 2.0 is sufficient.

Hardware platform

Hardware characteristics include the processor model and the amount of RAM and flash memory, and to evaluate them, it is better to focus on the performance test results demonstrated by the device. So it’s usually worth paying attention to them only from the point of view of installing alternative firmware versions on the router. And even in this case, you need to focus specifically on the availability of these firmwares for a specific router model, and not on the installed microcircuits. The most well-known hardware brands are Broadcom, Mediatek, Qualcomm and Realtek.

Other options

In some cases, it will be useful to pay attention to the overall dimensions, the presence of wall mounting, the presence of power and Wi-Fi buttons, the location of the ventilation holes, the design and power of the power supply.

Choosing a router: firmware

The firmware built into the router affects the operation of the device no less than the processor or radio module. As a rule, each manufacturer has a certain basic set for all models and expands it depending on their hardware features and the seniority of the router in the line (for example, the presence of USB ports). In practice, it is quite rare for a situation to arise when new firmware from the manufacturer at some point significantly expanded the functionality of the router, so only alternative firmware can come to your aid.

What new can new firmware bring to your router? For example, support for new ways to connect to the Internet. Especially considering the number of providers in Russia, the correct operation of the router with the operator’s equipment is a frequent stumbling block. Standard connection types such as IPoE, PPPoE, PPTP or L2TP are supported by most models, and for clarification, you can contact your Internet provider.

IPoE is the easiest and fastest way to connect to the Internet, when the WAN port of your router simply receives an IP address from the provider’s equipment. PPPoE is a little more complicated and requires specifying a username and password in the router, which are issued by the Internet provider. These two connection types are the least resource-intensive for the router and provide maximum speed.

PPTP and L2TP are becoming less common these days. For them, in addition to the name and password, you must also specify the address of the provider's access server. These modes place a heavy load on router processors and may also have certain compatibility issues. Some manufacturers implement special assistants in routers to simplify setting up Internet connections for specific providers.

IPTV

The provision of television viewing services through Internet operators is widely in demand in the Russian market. Configurations encountered include connecting an IPTV set-top box to a dedicated port of the router (including using VLAN technology to separate traffic), broadcasting TV channels using technology, installing a set-top box behind a router without a dedicated port, using a program for a computer (without a set-top box), and others.

If you want to use the IPTV service of your Internet provider, you must first clarify the details of this service and the recommended connection scheme. If you work via a dedicated port for a set-top box, you will need a direct network cable from the router to the TV, which will work exclusively for the set-top box. I also note that wireless communications are not very well suited for this type of traffic, but in some situations they can still be used. Some providers provide, for an additional fee, wireless bridges for connecting IPTV set-top boxes without running cables throughout the apartment, or you can use.

The simplest and most guaranteed option for connecting IPTV is to use the operator’s equipment, but you can use other equipment to work with this service.

USB ports for expanded functionality

The presence of USB ports allows you to implement many additional functions in the router, but this also requires the appropriate firmware.
Their most common use is connecting a hard drive or flash drive to organize file sharing via the SMB (Windows network) and FTP protocols. The second protocol also makes it possible to provide files to remote users over the Internet. Depending on the USB version, the speed of the wired ports and the performance of the platform, this service can be used to store work files, create backups, organize a media library and solve other problems.

Most models of routers with USB ports implement and, which allows you to stream multimedia to SmartTV and other devices on a wireless home network. True, there may be subtleties of compatibility with devices and formats. On some fast devices, you can implement a system for offline downloading files from the Internet using various protocols, which does not require a constantly turned on computer.

Another great way to use the USB port is to connect a 3G/4G modem to provide Internet access. This can be either the main channel, for example for a summer residence, or a backup channel, which is used in case of failure of the main wire connection. Here it is worth paying attention to the support of specific cellular modem models. The compatibility list is usually provided on the router manufacturer's website. The USB port on the router can also be used to connect your printer to your home network. In this case, the firmware at least implements the printing function, but working with a scanner in an MFP is not always possible.

Additional router features

• built-in DDNS client;
• IPv6 protocol support;
• bandwidth control (QoS);
• the ability to create multiple connections to the Internet;
• support for the IGMP protocol and/or udpxy service for IPTV operation
• the ability to organize guest networks without access to local wireless network resources;
• restricting access and organizing Wi-Fi operation according to a schedule;
• firewall, installing additional filters, creating port translation rules to allow external access to services (for example, for a home server);
• parental control;
• filters for accessing sites by category (SkyDNS and Yandex.DNS);
• VPN server for organizing secure remote access to a local network via the Internet;
• network diagnostic functions and advanced event logs.

Router web interface

The web interface is used to configure the router by (192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) in the browser. Often, you are automatically redirected to this page when you try to access the Internet through a router or when setting up a device after purchase, or after resetting the settings. Read recommendations for setting up your router. While using the device, you will not need access to the web interface, unless you want to use the additional services that I wrote about above.

Asus router mobile application interface

Mobile applications

Today, several companies, in addition to the web interface (controlling the router from the browser), offer branded mobile applications as an alternative to launching the router and controlling its operation. This can be useful for initial setup from a tablet or smartphone, which are not always convenient for a “full” web interface. In addition, through these programs you can quickly change some settings - for example, enable a guest network or allow certain clients access to the Internet. Typically, these utilities only work “from the inside” - when the smartphone is connected to the router’s wireless network. But sometimes there are cloud options that do not require this. This option is interesting if you need to control the operation of the router remotely (for example, from work or while on the road).

Alternative firmware

Most users, after purchasing a router, use it with the factory firmware, but I recommend installing alternative versions of firmware on the router if there is a need for new functionality or malfunctions, because the custom firmware of the router can correct some shortcomings of the original version or expand the range of its capabilities.
Depending on the router model, installing alternative firmware can be either simple (for example, downloading a file downloaded from the Internet using standard means) or complex, including disassembling the device and connecting a console cable. Any of the options violates the terms of warranty service for the router established by the manufacturer, but if the router is physically functional, then you can always return the original firmware version to it.

Other options

By the way, it is worth special attention to have lists of recommended router models from Internet providers, since focusing on them will minimize connection problems, especially for additional services, but it is worth considering that the models from this list are not very functional.

Conclusion

As you can see, a wireless router solves a rather meager set of basic tasks, but when choosing a router you need to take into account many factors, because you can buy a router for either 1,000 or 20,000 rubles.
When choosing a router, clearly define the requirements for the device and the range of tasks it can solve, and then you can make an approximate list of candidates for purchase and study them in more detail on the manufacturers’ websites and on the website.

Top 10 best routers of 2016

For dessert, I have prepared a selection of the best wireless routers in terms of price and quality. In addition to high performance, easy setup and operation, equipment and functionality are no less important in a router. You may well need the ability to connect external drives or “smart” distribution of data transfer speeds between all clients in .

The title of the best router can rightfully be ASUS RT-AC88U(you can read the review of the previous model ASUS RT-AC87U). This model demonstrates excellent throughput - up to 700 Mbit/s and equipment: 6 Gigabit LAN ports and 2 USB (versions 3.0 and 2.0). The only drawback is the lack of a DSL modem.

The best WLAN router with DSL modem – ASUS DSL-AC68U. This wireless router offers excellent performance and has four Gigabit LAN ports with USB 3.0 for connecting a printer or external hard drive.

D-Link DIR-850L – the best router in terms of price and quality ratio

Router model with the best price/quality ratio – D-Link DIR-850L, which is able to offer everything that is needed from a modern wireless router, supporting the 802.11ac standard and carrying 4 Gigabit LAN ports on board.

TOP 10 WLAN routers

1. Asus RT-AC88U
2. Asus RT-AC5300
3. Asus RT-AC87U
4. Netgear R7800
5. Synology RT1900AC
6. Netgear R6400
7. Asus DSL-AC68U
8. Zyxel NBG6816
9. Asus RT-AC3200
10. D-Link DIR-890L

Hello, dear visitors! Have you decided to buy a new Wi-Fi router? Great idea! In this publication, we will tell you how to choose a WiFi router for your home, what to look for when choosing a router, and how not to be disappointed in your purchase. We have already told you what to pay attention to and how not to make a mistake when choosing. We even wrote an article on how to get into the car correctly. The time has come for a home Wi-Fi router.

It's no secret that today there are a lot of manufacturers of wireless routers and access points: ASUS, D-link, Huawei, Linksys, MikroTik, NETGEAR, TP-LINK, TRENDnet, Ubiquiti, Upvel, ZyXEL and others. And each manufacturer can have several dozen models of routers and Wi-Fi access points. Which router should you choose for your home among all this variety? Do you need to overpay for famous brands, modern innovations and progressive features? Let's figure it out together!

What are the best parameters to choose a router for at home?

In one of our articles, we have already described what the basic principle of its operation is. We would like to immediately clarify the difference between a Wi-Fi router and a Wi-Fi access point. Otherwise, in stores, routers can be called access points, and vice versa. The first difference between a router and an access point is the presence of network ports on the router. And this is not easy, since the task of a simple access point is to expand the network coverage area, and not to distribute the Internet to devices.

All WiFi access points are designed to increase network coverage. That is, it will not be possible to organize a full-fledged network using an access point (there are no necessary ports). A WiFi router (also known as a router) is the same wireless access point, but with the ability to organize a network. Any router can act as a switch, since it has LAN ports for connecting a laptop or computer via a network cable (). We will now show you what these network ports are. This is what a standard Wi-Fi router looks like from the back:

As you can see, there is nothing complicated about it. First of all, you need to understand for which Internet connection you want to choose and buy a Wi-Fi router. After all, there are several connection technologies and here you need to know exactly what type of Internet you have installed. Or what type do you plan to use in the future. We have already talked about different types of Internet connections in our article. Here are the three main connection protocols: Ethernet, ADSL And 3G/4G.

Advice! Many providers post recommended router models on their websites. It would be a good idea to go in and check the compatibility of the router with your Internet connection.

First protocol Ethernet(the main three varieties of this protocol in Russia are PPPoE, L2TP or VPN) works over a network cable, if a cord from the provider is connected to the network card of your home computer or laptop, then your connection uses this communication protocol. The most popular providers providing Ethernet access is Beeline (Beeline), Rostelecom (Online), Dom.ru (Dom.ru), NETBYNET Akado, ByFly, TTK, Ukrtelecom and others. In fact, there are a great many of them, it’s just that many of the providers buy the channel from larger ones. This is what the RJ-45 connector looks like on a router:

The second common communication protocol is ADSL. In Russia, a provider works with it MGTS. This is what a WiFi router looks like for the ADSL protocol (the connector looks like a telephone connector):

The third popular type of connection is 3G/4G. Such mobile operators work with it as MTS, Beeline, Megaphone And Skylink. On the router intended for distribution 3G/4G Internet there is a special USB connector:

The first thing a buyer always pays attention to is the price. Why does one router cost a thousand rubles, and another four or five thousand? In many ways, it's all about its characteristics. But before we look at them, a few words about the price and pricing market for routers.

Very often you can hear two opposing points of view. Some users of home WiFi routers claim that there is no point in overpaying for expensive router models, while others say that cheap routers are defective, break down quickly, are glitchy and unstable. As usual, the truth is somewhere in the middle. The vast majority of routers are produced in China, but this does not mean that they are all of poor or the same quality. Here's what affects the price of a router:

• What hardware is installed in the router (processor, flash memory, etc.).
• Router brand.
• Hardware and software capabilities of a particular model.

Let's consider all three factors influencing the price. Of course, the price is influenced by the build quality and good components that are present in more expensive router models. But if you get to the bottom of things and take a closer look at specific models, you can choose a WiFi router for your home for less money and you can’t go wrong with its contents.

For example, WiFi routers from one of the leading manufacturers Dlink, especially cheap models, are often released with crude firmware, and the hardware of cheap routers and access points from Dlink is not designed for high performance. Eminent Asus has a diverse lineup, which includes both expensive router models and relatively budget options. The latter may not be the best choice. Linksys- relatively expensive, but mostly reliable and high-quality routers. TP-Link is a budget manufacturer of Wi-Fi routers; the quality of this company’s products is highly controversial. You may end up with a low-quality product. Zyxel- produces a range of home models that are quite proven and suitable for home use. True, the prices of this company are not the most affordable. Routers from NETGEAR And TRENDnet They are also of fairly high quality and relatively cheap.

In general, you can run into a low-quality model from any manufacturer. But if you pay attention to reviews and technical specifications, this probability can be greatly reduced. Hardware and software capabilities are what you need to know if you want to choose a decent wifi router for your home. In many ways, the price of a particular model depends on the capabilities that the router can provide. But are advanced features really needed in everyday home use of a WiFi router? Let's look at the question of how to choose a router for an apartment, from the point of view of its technical characteristics.

Main technical characteristics when choosing a Wi-Fi router

If you choose a home router based on price and do not pay attention to its characteristics, then you may make a mistake with the purchase. Some cheap wireless devices are not designed for high power and the network coverage area can be several meters. In addition, low-power routers do not allow the signal to reach through walls or other obstacles. If you have an apartment with concrete walls or a country house with brick walls, you should take a closer look at the chosen model.

There are a lot of negative reviews from owners of cheap routers who complain that their router cuts down the incoming and outgoing Internet speed via WiFi. This is due to the cheap and low-quality hardware of Wi-Fi routers. For example, if your provider provides access via a 10 megabit channel, and the measured file download speed is less than 1.25 megabytes, then it may not be a problem of poor quality service, but the operation of Wi-Fi.

In addition, cheap router models can freeze, glitch and simply turn off. Agree that constantly rebooting the router is a very nerve-wracking task. Sometimes a device can be saved from such behavior by flashing it, that is, replacing the internal firmware with a newer one (the latest firmware can be found on the manufacturer’s website). However, you may not be lucky with an expensive analogue, but the likelihood of such troubles is lower.

Now we will look at the main characteristics of routers that you need to pay attention to when using WiFi at home. If you are choosing a WiFi router for the first time, then most likely you do not understand the specific parameters. In fact, it's not that complicated. We have already found out above that any router has a port for connecting a channel from the provider, LAN ports for connecting to a computer’s network card, and the ability to distribute the Internet via Wi-Fi wireless technology. These are the characteristics a modern router should have; if you don’t know which WiFi router to choose, then these will be sufficient:

1. The ability to encrypt the channel with all available encryption types - WEP, WPA, WPA2.
2. Ability to work on all wireless communication standards - 802.11b, 802.1g, 802.11n. N mode provides the fastest wireless connection speed. It is advisable that the router be able to work with mixed modes 802.11b/g And 802.11b/g/n . This will allow you to connect those devices that I can use 802.11n and those older gadgets that only work on 802.11b or 802.1g. Some models support the standard 802.11ac, which theoretically allows you to work over a wireless gigabit channel. But in practice, a gigabit channel is not needed at home, and you need to look for a provider who can provide such bandwidth.
3. The router must be able to work with protocols PPPoE L2TP And VPN. The first is usually included by default in all models, but not all have the second and third protocols. Even if you don’t have a VPN or L2Tp connection at home now, it’s not a fact that you won’t need it in the future.
4. It is advisable that the router have a removable antenna. This will increase the WIFI coverage area if it turns out to be insufficient.
5. Number of external antennas - the more, the better. However, for a small apartment or a small country house, a Wi-Fi router with one antenna may be enough. If the apartment or private house is large enough, then you may have to install a wifi router in the middle of the house or apartment, or buy an additional access point.
6. Volume . It is advisable to buy a router with at least 64 megabytes of RAM. 32 megabytes of RAM may not be enough when using WiFi with a large number of devices.
7. It is advisable to find a router with not the weakest one. A powerful wifi router for your home is the key to stable operation in the future. The processor determines the maximum data transfer speed over Wi-Fi and the stability of the signal when the device is operating.

All modern routers have their own web interface, with which you can. There is no need to worry about the absence of such an interface. In addition, all modern models have a built-in DHCP-a server that allows you to distribute IP addresses to a computer, laptop, phone, tablet or other gadget automatically. Also, most routers have a built-in software firewall (FireWall), which will protect your home network from hacking by an attacker. A more specific characteristic of the router is the function WPS. It serves to quickly connect devices that support it. For those who are interested in quickly setting up a WI-FI connection using WPS, we recommend reading our articles and setting up and. We also suggest that you read our articles on setting up a WiFi router:

• - how to connect a Wi-Fi router using the example of a router Trendnet.
• — even more detailed instructions for setting up and connecting a Wi-Fi router.
• — what to do if WiFi still doesn’t work.

Typically, for home use, you do not need a router with a print server (with software that allows a group of users to share the printer by connecting it via USB). However, if this function is necessary, do not forget about it when choosing and purchasing the model you like. In the next chapter, we have compiled a rating of routers for the home based on their characteristics, which in our opinion are the best choice in terms of price-quality ratio.

What is the best Wi-Fi router for home?

So, if your eyes wander and you just can’t decide which wifi router to choose, then here are several popular models that have all the necessary functions for using them at home. To begin with, routers cost up to 1000 rubles. We warn you that these devices have weak hardware and can reduce the outgoing and incoming speed from the provider. Such routers are suitable for use with a slow channel in a small house or apartment:

730 rub.	1030 rub.	949 rub.	990 rub.	780 rub.	955 rub.

Here are a few router models that you can buy within from 1000 to 2000 rubles:

1118 rub.	1540 rub.	1811 rub.	2150 rub.	1540 rub.	1310 rub.

Popular router models from 2000 to 5000 rubles. In addition to advanced functionality, such routers allow you to operate over a channel from 600 Mbit/s to 900 Mbit/s, as well as use the 2.4/5 GHz bandwidth of Wi-Fi devices (except for ZyXEL Keenetic Giga II).

An Internet network for a home (apartment) is not difficult to create - modern devices make it easy to divide the signal between several computers.

However, you often have to purchase equipment for your home network, called a router.

Using wifi signals or cable, it allows you to create networks. Choosing the right good router for an apartment (for a house) is not an easy task.

Most users know very little about this type of device and may choose a wifi router that is not fully suitable for their individual needs, and in addition ruin their budget.

Important parameters and functions of a Wi-Fi router and how best to choose

A Wi-Fi router, according to the professional definition, is used to receive the Internet provided by service providers, such as Rostelecom or Beeline.

Wi-Fi routers currently available on the market (2014, 2015) differ in signal transmission technologies.

In this regard, we can distinguish two main types of these devices - cable router and WiFi.

If you plan to move your computing devices frequently, you should choose a Wi-Fi router.

For stationary objects, it would be better to choose cable, which, in addition, costs less.

For a home network, a wireless router is most often chosen. While choosing a cable or wireless router will not cause any problems, the problem comes from the other side - determining a specific device model or company.

• By the way, you may not know, but all modern PCs are equipped with virtual computers - then you won’t have to buy a separate one.

Each manufacturer has several types of wireless routers in their range that you can buy ranging from $15 to $100.

When choosing a router, especially pay attention to the standard in which it operates. The general standard is 802.11g.

Routers using the 802.11g standard will allow the signal to reach the average apartment or house with minor obstacles.

The 802.11n standard defines the modern mode of wireless routers. When choosing them, it is important to look at the ports that will allow you to connect regular network cables.

Most routers are equipped with four of these connectors and a Gigabit connector port (10/100/1000 Mbps), and some also have a USB port.

A very important parameter for each router is the signal strength and range. If they are too weak, then in remote areas, computers will not have access to it.

Data transfer speed is another important feature of a router, as it determines how quickly you can send email, download files from the Internet, etc.

In Equipment operating in 802.11g, the speed is noticeably lower than in 802.11n. The actual transfer in case of 802.11g is around 22 Mbps, while the manufacturers guarantee that it will be up to 54 Mbps.

This speed will be more than enough for the average Internet user. Transmission decreases as the number of supported computers connected via a wireless network increases and the distance between the computer and the device increases.

Routers running on the new 802.11n WiFi technology offer their users much higher wireless throughput, reaching even 90 Mbps.

This bandwidth is useful for those who send large amounts of data to the local network.

The new standard has a much wider range, even in areas with obstacles. The signal can penetrate through them.

Another feature is optional port forwarding (Virtual Server and Port Forwarding) or WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup).

The WPS option allows you to provide additional security and automatic transmission connection if the network card allows you to use this function.

The router may also allow bandwidth management, which is called QoS. Management allows you to set priorities for all applications using the Internet from the local network.

Applications, or specific computers, with the highest priority will be able to follow the link first.

When you choose a router, also take a look at the rules and warranty period provided by the device manufacturer.

It would be good to include at least 10 years. When purchasing, make sure that it is compatible with any WLAN adapters.

If you do not do this, the router and network card will work together, but the data transfer speed may decrease significantly, even several times.

Every router should provide adequate security for your wireless network.

Currently, the protocol that guarantees encryption at a decent level is WPA or the new version WPA2.

Before choosing a specific model, look at what security protocols the device offers, because in addition to encrypting connections, some allow you to further secure your network in other ways, such as MAC address-based authentication.

This combination creates network security from various types of intrusions - you get a choice between several encryption protocols.

The vast majority of all routers will protect your network from external attacks, since they have a firewall.

This built-in firewall covers all the most common attack methods.

Some models also allow the inclusion of specific norms, which further reduces the possibility of any attack.

Popular router manufacturers and their products

The most commonly purchased devices include the brand: D-Link. The company has a strong reputation in the industry, so customers are not afraid to trust it.

A good choice would be to purchase such D-Link brand models as: DI-524, DIR-615 and a high-end router - DIR-655.

The DI-524 has been on the market for several years and continues to be a popular choice for consumers.

This is perhaps the most popular wireless router. It can quickly and efficiently divide the Internet between multiple computers.

The DIR-615 is the latest addition to D-Link wireless routers. Other manufacturers: Asus, Cisco, 3Com, Linksys, Netgear, or Zyxel.

Frequently asked questions before choosing

— Which router to choose if I’m going to send large amounts of data to the local network

You should choose a router with Gigabit ports; it allows you to quickly transfer large amounts of information over local networks. Additionally, the network adapter must be allowed to use these ports.

— Which router to choose: wireless or cable

It depends on individual needs. Wireless routers are currently the most popular.

They provide high mobility for all computers connected to the local network. On the other hand, the advantage of wired is in signal strength.

The choice of router should always be correlated with our own requirements for the device.

It's worth thinking about how much coverage you'll need and what expectations you have for the security of your network. Good luck.

Category: Uncategorized

In this article, we are ready to help you choose a router for your home - if you want to purchase a decent and reliable device at a reasonable price, we recommend that you read our detailed review before purchasing!

Important Features

To understand which WiFi router for the home is best to buy for the Internet, you must first understand its characteristics in detail, and only then make an informed decision. Next, we will tell you what to look for when choosing a router for your home, and what characteristics will be directly in your house or apartment.

#1 WAN type

The first thing we will talk about is WAN Connection Type. This is the name of the type of connection technology, the method of connecting a device to an Internet provider. To make the right choice, it is necessary to take into account exactly how you are supposed to connect to the provider’s network.

Let's consider its main types:

• Ethernet Standard connection to the network cable laid by the provider. RJ-45 connector - at the moment it is the most popular;
• ADSL. Used to connect to a telephone cable and have an RJ-11 connector;
• 3G/4G. They are used to connect a USB modem to distribute the Internet via a wireless network.

If you are thinking about how to choose a Wi-Fi router for an apartment or a private house, then know that there are universal devices for the home that provide all types of connection technology. The choice of WAN type in this case will depend on what kind of connection you have.

#2 Speed

• You should not purchase devices operating at speeds up to 150 Mbit/s. Such devices are suitable for minimal Internet surfing at home. However, if you have a limited budget and do not need online games and movies/series, then 150 Mbit/s will be enough for you.
• The best speed is up to 300 Mbit/sec. This option is suitable for active Internet users who want to make the most of its capabilities.

The speed, of course, depends on many factors, but it is recommended to choose models that support all popular transmission speed standards. It is also worth finding out in advance about the maximum speed provided by your provider - if their performance is low, there is no point in purchasing equipment with high performance.

Important! The speed can drop not only from the power of the router. Network interference, the number of connected devices, and the work of the provider are all affected - be sure to take this into account.

#3 Frequency

There are several available standards:

• The most common standard is 2.4 GHz. Frankly speaking, it is already heavily overloaded and degrades the quality of signal transmission. Therefore, if you choose an option with this frequency, interruptions in signal transmission may occur during use;
• The newest ones support the new and less crowded 5 GHz frequency;
• There are dual-band models on sale that operate at two frequencies simultaneously.

When choosing, you should immediately take into account several important points:

• apartment area.
• number of devices that are planned to be connected;
• thickness and material of the walls.

With a small area of ​​​​the room and low load on the network, in fact, the simplest model with a frequency of up to 2.4 GHz will be quite enough for you. Well, a dual-band model will be a universal option - you can switch the frequency from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz if necessary.

#4 Radius and power

Another important indicator is p range – the maximum signal transmission distance provided by external antennas. Want to know how to find a good WiFi router for your home with a long range?

Then we answer - it is influenced by the following parameters:

• Device power;
• Presence of interference from other equipment;
• Architectural features (walls, location of the house);
• Location of the device in the room.

In this regard, it is easier for owners of small apartments, because the power of most even the simplest models is quite enough for full use of the Internet, feel free to take a model that is suitable for the price.

How to choose a WiFi router for your home to ensure a good signal and not make a mistake with the power? For those who live in large houses, choosing a router power can cause some difficulties, so we have put together some recommendations for them:

• For large rooms (over 100m2), install several devices;
• Buy the most powerful router;
• Choose models with at least two antennas.

• We also recommend paying attention to the possibility of removing antennas and installing new, more powerful ones if necessary.
• Usually, the more expensive the model, the higher the power level. Therefore, if your financial capabilities allow, then simply choose products from the middle or expensive price segment.

By the way, in our separate article we examined in detail the characteristics of the most. Be sure to check it out before purchasing any option!

#5 Number of ports and connectors

In this section we will talk about the main connectors that can be found in routers and their purpose.

• Modern gadgets have at least 4 LAN ports;
• They are needed to connect different devices - TV, computer and others;
• Don't worry, one port will be the default, but it is still better to choose a router with a large number of inputs if you plan to connect a large number of devices to it.

• Almost all modern routers are equipped with USB ports;
• It is worth purchasing equipment with at least one such port;
• They are used to connect modems, printers or storage devices.

The last indicator that users often focus on is the manufacturer. But you shouldn’t do this, because often little-known brands offer high-quality and inexpensive equipment, so the only thing that really matters is the characteristics of the router. Are you ready to overpay for a well-known manufacturer name? For example, we are not.

Residents of both apartments and the private sector often wonder which WiFi router is best to choose for their home. For both, the most important will be just a few points: coverage area, number of connected devices, and the tasks you plan to perform.

It is also worth mentioning a common misconception that inexperienced buyers often rely on: “the cheaper the model, the less power it has, and the less you can count on. And vice versa, the more expensive your device is, the more load it will withstand.”

Yes, a lot depends on the price, but still not everything. Alas, you can buy an unsuitable model for 10,000 rubles, no one is immune from this. If you carefully consider your choice, you will choose a router that meets your needs and is in a suitable price category. Therefore, the main thing that needs to be done is to decide what is important to you; to do this, study the characteristics that we described earlier, and then you definitely won’t have to overpay for unnecessary options!

If you try to summarize everything that we have already told you into 1 practical advice, then:

• Pay attention to the speed required to complete tasks on the Internet;
• Will you need a USB port and do you plan to connect other devices to it?
• Decide on the type of connection technology (WAN) - Ethernet, ADSL or 3G/4G

We're willing to bet that no one likes freezing pages and reloads, but how can you find the best option by purchasing a decent model without overpaying for unnecessary options? Let's talk about this now, with We advise you to rely on the recommendations from our article and the tips given below!

For apartments

It is important to remember that interference from neighbors' WiFi devices may affect your experience. For this reason, it is recommended to choose models with non-standard frequencies - this will help avoid overload and have a positive effect on the quality of WiFi transmission. They tend to be a little more expensive, but the results are worth the money spent!

It is difficult to give a specific answer and point to a specific model, because we have not been to your home, we do not know why exactly you are choosing a router, and even more so, what type of Internet the provider you are planning to contact is ready to provide you with. But still, if you need specific examples of good quality devices, then at the end of the article we have indicated several models that are definitely worth paying attention to.

What matters is how many devices you plan to connect, whether there is any interference in the room, and most importantly, how much you are willing to spend on the purchase.

By the way, its size will help you decide which Wi-Fi router is best for your apartment. Obviously, for a one-room apartment it will be enough to choose a model from the mid-price category; spending a lot of money here is pointless. If the housing is two-level, or its area is significantly larger than the coverage area of ​​the router, you will have to either spend money on an extremely powerful model, or buy an additional repeater.

For private houses

As for residents of the private sector, they are more dependent on the providers that serve their locality. In some homes, it is simply impossible to choose a connection other than a telephone line. It is in such houses that you can most often find a modem-router pair: the first connects to the Internet, and the second is responsible for distributing the signal.

When choosing components, it is important to know:

• the maximum possible transmission speed for your site;
• provider connection method;
• network restrictions - the presence of a source of possible interference.

Before choosing a good modem/router with WiFi for your home, it is important to remember that repeaters and splitters may be needed for the private sector. The former are used if the area of ​​the house is too large, and the latter will divide the telephone line signal so that the Internet connection will not interfere with incoming and outgoing calls.

If it is not possible to run a cable, you can use mobile Wi-Fi devices. There are no uniform recommendations regarding which mobile Wi-Fi router is best to choose. When choosing, it is important to consider how good the carrier coverage is in the area.

Top popular models

When choosing a router for your home, it is important to find a balance between cost and quality, and we are ready to help you with this. Here are some good models that really deserve your attention.

We would like to give some advice right away: if your budget is not limited, then just take one of the most expensive and visually attractive models - it will have everything you need. This device will definitely not let you down.

#1 Keenetic Start

• Stylish design;
• Easy setup;
• High frequency 5 dBi antennas;
• IPSec support and 802.1x encryption.

• Works only in the 2.4 GHz band;
• The maximum speed is 300 Mbit/sec.

Cost: 1,500 – 1,800 rubles.

#2 Tenda AC6

• 4 removable antennas at 30 dBm;
• Dual band;
• Bandwidth up to 1200 Mbit/s;
• Availability of the “Parental Control” function.

• WAN port 100 Mbit.

Cost: 2 – 2.5 thousand rubles.

#3 Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi 4

• Remote control from a smartphone;
• Gigabit Ethernet ports (2);
• Speed ​​up to 1167 Mbit/s;
• 128 MB RAM.

• There are no USB ports;
• Cannot be secured in a vertical position.

Cost: 2,000 – 3,000 rubles.

#4 Huawei B525

Advantages:

• Possibility of connecting external 4G antennas;
• Maximum speed – 1300 Mbit/s;
• Work in two frequency ranges;
• Encryption using WEP and WPA(2) algorithms;
• You can connect up to 32 devices.

Flaws:

• No vertical mounts;

Price: 8,200 – 9,400 rubles.

#5 ASUS RT-AC86U

Advantages:

• Control via phone application;
• Three powerful antennas;
• Operates in 2.4 or 5 GHz bands;
• Uses WEP or WPA(2) encryption;
• Original design.

Flaws:

• Quite a high price;
• Cannot be installed on a wall.

Price: 15 – 17 thousand rubles.

#6 TP-LINK Archer C3200

Advantages:

• Maximum throughput – 3200 Mbit/s;
• 6 antennas;
• Dual-core processor;
• Simultaneous operation of three frequency bands.

Flaws:

• High energy consumption;
• You cannot connect a 4G modem.

Price: 14.5 – 17.5 thousand rubles.

Now you know which Wi-Fi router is better to choose and buy for your home in order to always have access to the Internet. Follow our advice, rely on the characteristics and study the ratings of Wi-Fi routers for home Internet in order to purchase high-quality and inexpensive equipment that will serve you for many years!

How much are you willing to pay for a router?