Nowadays, it is difficult to imagine everyday functioning or work without a permanent connection to the internet. The purchase of a router and the correct configuration of the network is therefore a must-have not only at home, but primarily in companies. Especially if they use wireless networks to a large extent. Choosing the right router is therefore a very important issue that has a key impact on the quality of Internet use.
Network configuration – best routers for a small business
Asus RT-AC88U
Asus RT-AC88U is one of the more expensive network equipment that can be freely used as a source of wireless network in companies. The security technologies used in the device and additionally placed by the manufacturer, AiProtection function , provide complete security of data shared inside the hotspot. The technology easily detects vulnerabilities and more importantly blocks malicious sites. In addition, the Asus RT-AC88U router has four external antennas, guaranteeing access to networks over large areas. On the other hand, the implemented NitroQAM ™ technology can increase the speed for each device, which also allows high-definition image streaming (4K / UHD).
AVM FRITZ! Box 7590
A device from a much higher price shelf, but compatible with every cable network, ADSL + and VDSL. Fixed and portable devices configured with the router can easily use the WLAN AC connection, which offers 1733 Mbit / s in the 5GHz band and 800 Mbit / s in the 2.4 GHz band. In addition, the AC MU-MIMO (up to 1733 Mbit / s) and N (800 Mbit / s) standards, which at the same time controls two 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands, will work great in a company with a large area and several rooms, .
In addition, the router can be used as a telephone exchange, as it provides configuration of up to 10 computer telephony accounts. It also allows connecting analog telephones and an ISDN signals, and using the option of an answering machine or fax. Access to the router is possible through the mobile application.
Huawei E5186
Huawei is a well-known brand on the IT market. The Huawei E5186 router was ultimately devoid of antennas, and although it can be purchased separately, it is not a harmful move for the equipment. Antennas are placed inside the device and are responsible for the range of the wireless network.
TP-LINK Archer MR200
The TP-LINK Archer MR200 router is a product of the TP-LINK company, currently a market leading brand. The device offers a fast and, above all, stable wireless network, and a good range thanks to up to 5 antennas. Two of them are mounted outside the router, while inside are the remaining three. TP-LINK also supports LTE technology, which provides Internet access in an event of a failure on the side of the main supplier. This is possible thanks to the SIM card slot built into the device. The router controls various types of connections, including cable and DSL modem.
Network configuration – the best home routers
When deciding to buy a router for your home, you should answer one crucial question, namely: what will be the router used for. Only then it will be possible to choose equipment that will not only fulfill its task, but will last for several years, and the network configuration will go smoothly and will not cause problems
What to look for when buying a router at home?
1. Internet provider and type of transmitted signal
This is an important issue, especially when the user decides to buy cheaper equipment. Routers with lower prices have only one plug. Internet from “cable” is provided via a classic RJ-45 twisted pair cable. When deciding on a telecommunications provider, the internet is provided via the RJ-11 telephone line. However, if you intend to use Wi-Fi in the future, you must check whether the device has an LTE modem.
2. The Wi-Fi standard
It’s best if your device currently supports the most popular and fastest 802.11n band.
3. Work in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band
It is good for the router to work simultaneously on two bands in both directions, using one to send and the other to receive data. This is especially important in a situation when a device cannot see the access point to the network of one of the bands. Then it is enough to switch to the other frequency and easily use the network.
4. Built-in USB ports
They allow you to connect external devices to the router, e.g. a printer, USB stick, an external LTE modem.
5. Number of antennas and place of assembly
Internal antennas do not always provide a worse signal quality. It all depends on the equipment, manufacturer and components installed in the device. However, it is worth remembering, that external antennas can be replaced at any time with stronger ones, if they stop meeting our expectations.
6. Guest network
An option that is worth using if your router provides this functionality. A hotspot for guests can be created for family or friends visiting us. The target wireless network will be secure thanks to this solution.
7. Security technologies
The router should have built-in technologies to guarantee data transmission security and functionalities such as a firewall that protect against DoS and DdoS attacks.
8. Administrative panel in Polish
A user-friendly interface is the basis for a safe and pleasant use of the equipment.
Home router – models
The AVM FRITZ! Box 4040 router is a device compatible with any type of internet connection. Its purchase is the best solution if you do not know exactly which services of the Internet provider you want to use.
In turn, the most popular routers on the market are products of such companies as: TP-LINK, D-Link or Cisco. The brands offer devices with lower prices and similar functionalities. Nevertheless, TP-LINK equipment enjoys the greatest recognition among users, because their equipment in most cases meets very well the expectations of customers.