A router refers to a device that is used to connect computer networks. This, therefore, means that a router provides you with the internet connectivity you need for research or communication with family and friends. Getting to buy a cheap, reliable router that delivers ideal Wi-Fi, and that is easy to use and configure is quite hectic. If you’re looking to buy a new router or upgrade your existing one, and you do not know what to consider, worry not.
This post provides you with five things you must take into consideration while buying a router.
I. Standard
First, you should consider the standard of the router. Over the last few years, there has been quite a bit of a change in the standards for wireless technology. Today, for instance, most tablets, smartphones, and laptops are using the new standard, 802.11ac. The 802.11ac is three times faster than the 802.11n. You should, therefore, consider a router that supports this standard. If your ISP promises to give you a router that has a speed of 100 Mbps or more, but doesn’t support the 802.11ac standard, you should turn down their offer. This is because you’ll face wireless issues in the long run.
It is important to note that you should not take a router from your internet service providers.
II. Cost
Another factor to consider is the price of the router. Router’s price range from as low as $15 to as much as $400 or more. The price of routers rise as the speed requirements, and performance increases. For most people, a router that has an average performance is good, and its price ranges from $100 to $200. And if you are an average consumer or you need a router for home use, use a cheap router with the cost of less than $100.
III. Lifespan
Due to the regular change of standards and much stress put on the networking hardware, most have a short life span. The router is stretched for a gaming console, tablet, smartphone, laptop, streaming devices, etc. With time, the routers’ performance degrades due to overtime working and overload.
If you have been using the same router for several years and you are facing network connectivity problems and fail to find other reasons for the dip in the reliability of the router, it is advisable that you change or upgrade the router. It is advisable that you buy a costly router that will not require the change in short intervals.
IV. Range
For better connectivity and security, the router should be positioned in central point, away from obstructions. Placing the router in such places as in a corner on near the window increases the chances of signal leaks. You can use various software to maximize the connectivity of the router, including the heat map software.
Also, you can use power line adapters that help increase the network reach. Although they have limited the router’s speed, most of them are cheap and easy to find.
V. Dual or Single Band
A wireless router works on two distinct frequencies: the 2.4 GHz and the 5 GHz. A single band is capable of supporting either the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz (a new frequency band version). The dual band, on the other hand, is capable of supporting both the 2.4 GHz and the 5 GHz at the same time. For better connectivity, it is important to choose the best frequency band for you, between the dual and single band.
You should easily choose between the two bands depending on your place of residence. If you live in an area whose population is dense, you should choose a dual-band router. A single band router is ideal for people who live in a place where there are no nearby neighbors whose networks cannot interfere with yours.
For better connectivity, there are several important things that you must take into consideration. It is important that you check the reviews provided for each router before deciding to buy one. Also, you should consider the cost, standards, range, lifespan and the frequency of a router before buying one.
