Better internet could be a simple router upgrade away

Upgrading Your Home Wi-Fi: A Guide to Router Selection

Your internet service provider likely supplied a router, but upgrading can significantly improve your home network. This guide helps you understand what to look for when choosing a replacement.

Router and Internet Package Speed:

Your router's speed doesn't change your internet plan's speed. The benefit of a new router lies in improved coverage and stability, leading to faster speeds on your devices, even with the same plan. Compare your subscribed speed to your actual speed using an online speed test to identify if an upgrade is needed.

Extending Wi-Fi Range:

Premium routers often boast multiple, large antennas. These aren't just for show; they boost signal strength and range. More antennas generally mean better connectivity. Check manufacturer specifications for throughput and range, and verify claims with online user reviews. Antenna count is a factor, but not the sole determinant of speed.

Dual-Band vs. Tri-Band Routers:

Dual-band routers (2.4GHz and 5GHz) are common, offering more frequency channels to reduce signal interference. 2.4GHz offers longer range but slower speeds, while 5GHz is faster but has shorter range and penetrates walls less effectively. Dual-band routers intelligently manage channel selection. Tri-band routers add a 5.8GHz band, offering further performance improvements, especially beneficial for homes with many connected devices.

Wi-Fi Standards:

Wi-Fi standards (like Wi-Fi 6) represent generational improvements in speed, reliability, and multi-device support. While upgrading to Wi-Fi 6 improves coverage, the full benefit is realized when all your devices are also Wi-Fi 6 compatible.

Mesh Wi-Fi Systems:

Mesh Wi-Fi systems (e.g., Eero, Google Nest Wifi, Netgear Orbi) use multiple nodes to extend coverage. They distribute the workload, providing wider range and stronger signals, particularly beneficial in larger homes or areas with Wi-Fi dead zones. While peak speeds might not always match top standalone routers, mesh systems often excel in range and reliability.

Additional Router Specifications:

Consider MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output). Higher MU-MIMO values (e.g., 4x4, 8x8) handle multiple devices more efficiently. QoS (Quality of Service) features prioritize internet traffic, allocating more bandwidth to demanding applications like gaming.

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