Getting a good internet connection is an investment. However, even if you have good service from your Internet provider, there may be a chance that your router will not perform well.
These days, getting a router has its specialized use. Are you getting a router for your gaming experience? Or do you want a more seamless video streaming? Not only that, even as simple as browsing the internet requires a good WiFi router. You might get a different model if the router does not perform as intended. At home, having a router means you can do your online work, study, or shop. When you want better internet connectivity, here is how to find the best WiFi Router for your home.
Types of WiFi Standards
The WiFi we know today has various global standards. Before, it is referred to as 802.11. When a new version comes out, it uses the letters a, b, g, n, and ac. The latest version is referred to as the ax. All versions are compatible, but you get slower connections if you connect to an earlier version.
As of 801.11ax, the WiFi went through a renaming scheme. It makes it easier to determine which version of WiFi you are connected to. They are:
- WiFi 6, also known as 802.11ax
- WiFi 5, also known as 802.11ac
- WiFi 4, also known as 802.11n
- WiFi 3, also known as 802.11g
- WiFi 2, also known as 802.11a
- WiFi 1, also known as 802.11b
Area Coverage
The area coverage will vary depending on your home's size. For example, if you live in a 2-floor house, your Wifi router may not cover all rooms. This is because the walls blocking the signal or the router's limited range can be stalled due to the walls. It is more apparent when your home is bigger. If the single router is insufficient, you can buy a WiFi extender to widen its range. Do note that the location of the device is a big factor. As much as possible, place it where most people would gather for better internet access.
Dual-band and Tri-band WiFi
If your router is still a single-band router, then it is time to upgrade your router. Routers today come in dual-band and tri-band variants so they can connect to various frequencies. The most common frequencies are 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.
There are drawbacks to each frequency band. At 2.4 GHz, if too many devices are connected, the traffic can pile up, slowing down the internet speed. On the other hand, 5 GHz can be blocked when there are many different obstacles on the way. If your router is dual-band or tri-band, it can connect to any frequencies. Ensure that these bands are available in the case when one frequency is down for the time being.
Devices Connected to Your Router
When you live alone, you will not worry about the router. But if you live with your family, you must note how many devices the router can connect to. Here is another example: you would get a dual-band router in a 2.4 GHz frequency band for ten devices. And if you want even faster speeds, you can get the same model at a higher frequency of 5 GHz. It all depends on your needs and their needs.
Wrap up
Getting the best WiFi router can take time if you know what to do. As each need varies, the common goal is getting the best internet connection. Then, when you find the router you need, you can enjoy browsing, streaming, and gaming however you want.
Author's Bio:
Rosette has a knack for anything DIY, but not only that, she also knows a lot about manly chores and tech stuff as she spent her younger years immersed in books about tools and technology. She makes it a point to write about the things she's most passionate about during her free days.
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Image Credits: Freepik
