Wi-Fi router Buy Guide: Speed, Range and Smart Home Tips | Mint

We usually spend hours compared to internet plans, but barely give an idea to the Wi-Fi router. This is a high time when we feel that this small box sitting in a corner actually decides how strong and stable your connection will be. A weak router can slow down everything, no matter how fast your plan is. Therefore, if you want to buy a new router for your home, then what you need to check here.

Step 1: Understanding requirements and use

Consider your home size: Large or multi-level homes usually require a high-grade router, Aries system or additional extenders to ensure frequent coverage.

What is your internet use: Do you consume your internet for streaming, gaming, home working or normal browsing? This will help you determine the display level you required.

Number of devices connected to your network: Routers with better capacity and bandwidth are required to handle many connections smoothly.

Step 2: Type of router and their range coverage

Standard router: These are ideal for small or medium -sized houses where the internet use is basic and is limited to browsing, streaming and some connected devices.

Dual band router: These Wi-Fi routers support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. It prevents the crowd of network and provides better speed, especially if you have many users at home.

Tri-band router: These come with a 2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz bands and are a great fit if you have several devices that are connected at once, such as smart TVs, laptops, gaming consoles, etc.

Aries System: These are ideal for large homes or places where Wi-Fi signal falls in corners or in the floor. They use several router units placed around your house to give strong, consistent coverage everywhere.

Step 3: How much speed do you need?

Your router should be able to handle the internet speed being paid by you. If your internet plan gives you the speed of 1 GBPS, but your router can only support 300 Mbps, then you will not get the full speed you promise.

Routers come with speed ratings like AC1200 or AX1800. The higher the number, the faster it can be, but keep in mind, the actual speed mostly depends on your internet plan and how your house is set.

Step 4: Network Safety Facilities

You cannot compromise on your safety and privacy. Therefore, your Wi-Fi router should protect your network from online hazards. Wi-Fi routers that support WPA2 or WPA3 security are more stronger and more reliable than older options such as WEP. In addition, firewalls, security suits (being introduced by internet providers) and other features such as parents control also help to protect your data.

Step 5: Smart Home Integration

Today, most of us have smart devices at home, such as Alexa Speaker, Google Nest Camera, Smart TV or Robot Vacuum. So it makes sense to choose a Wi-Fi router that can easily connect with all of them and work. A good router helps to walk everything smoothly, whether you are asking Alexa to play music, examining your video doorbell, or streaming 4K shows on your smart TV.

In the past, we did not think much of which router to get. But now, with more connected devices and high internet uses, choosing the right router for your smart home is more important than ever.

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