Which Wi-Fi router should I buy for my home or apartment? Choose a router. The main differences between the types of Wi-Fi-routers.

New technologies are becoming more and more dense in our lives, and few people can do without a computer and the Internet for even one day. Devices with access to the World Wide Web, in every home is becoming more and more, and the access point is usually one. This problem is solved with the help of local organization (partly wired, partly wireless) home networkto which all available equipment will be connected. For these tasks use routers, which are also called "routers".

All establishments selling computer "hardware" have a fairly large number of various models of this device, so often there are problems of choice. All latest models of routers imply the possibility of organizing WI-FI connection, but differ in price by several times, they have different capabilities and functionality. So the question of how to choose is very hard. There are many subtleties and nuances that need to be taken into account.

How to choose a WI-FI router

The most important thing is to know. It can be obtained from the provider. Connection may be:

• ADSL - using a telephone line;
• Ethernet - through local networks;
• 3G, 4G - wireless connection  through the latest generation mobile networks.

When choosing a specific router model, please note that there is an input port that supports your type of connection. There are models that have multiple inputs, and you can connect the Internet from two providers. This is convenient when it is necessary to organize a stable connection, regardless of the presence of problems in one of them.

Answering the question about how to choose a WI-FI router, we further advise you to pay attention to the standard with which the device works. The transmission from which your local network will work depends on it:

• 802.11b - provides a speed of no more than 11 Mbps.
• 802.11g - provides a speed of not more than 54 Mbps.
• 802.11n - theoretically provides speeds of up to 600 Mbps.

How to choose a router for home

Most modern devices with Internet access support

802.11n standard. So it is logical to choose a router with such characteristics. If one of your devices has a lower standard, then it will work with a router of a higher rank, but at the speed that is available to it. If your router has a lower speed, then, naturally, all devices will work at the speed that it can provide. Another point: you should not overpay for the standard 802.11n, if the maximum speed of your connection is not higher than 50 Mbps.

Asking the question of which router to choose for the house, find out at what frequency all devices in the house with Internet access work. For most computers and other equipment, this figure is 2.4 GHz, but there are devices with an operating frequency of 5 GHz. If both types of devices are available - you will have to choose a router that works at two frequencies, which, of course, is somewhat more expensive, but it removes the restriction when purchasing new devices.

The next point to consider is the number and type of antennas. They can be built-in and removable. If you are going to use wireless internet  only in my apartment, there will be enough models with built-in antennas, but if there is a desire to "climb" in the global network, sitting on a bench near the house, then external ones are obligatory.

In fact, a router is a small computer with limited functionality, and, like any computer, it has a certain amount of memory and a processor. The larger the first and more productive second, the better and faster your local area network will work. Therefore, choose the "coolest" in these parameters from the options available to you.

This is probably all that you need to pay attention to. We hope it became clear to you which characteristics you should pay attention to in the first place. There is also a secondary point: the presence of USB-ports. This is sometimes very convenient: you can connect a printer or external drive, other devices having such an input.

One of the most popular devices for users today. home internet  - this Wi-Fi router. There is a wide range of routers from different manufacturers on the market, so it is difficult for an ordinary user to understand this variety of models. We will help you choose a Wi-Fi router that fits your home, and also tell you about the factors of choice that you need to pay special attention to. In addition, we present you the top 5 rating top routerspresented on the Russian market.

Basic rules for choosing a router for home

A router or router is a device with the help of which PCs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc. connect to a wireless network and connect to the internet. Choose inexpensive but quality router  it can be difficult a number of device selection criteria. After all, buying a "cat in a bag", you will not win anything. So, the main criteria:

• price   - on Internet forums, many advise to choose from the cheapest routers, arguing that all devices are the same, support the same functions, etc., etc. So why, they say, pay more? In reality, this is not the case - high-quality assembly, high performance, good components and high reliability are present only in relatively expensive models. And cheap ones put in correspondingly cheap parts, their reception is much worse, and the Wi-Fi coverage area is small. In addition, budget routers often break more often than expensive ones, although this rule does not always work. If you can afford a more expensive router, then give preference to it;
• brand   - there is a whole line of brands of routers, but their products have proven themselves in different ways. For example, D-Link is considered one of the main manufacturers of low-cost routers, but its products are not particularly reliable. Specialists and ordinary users call several manufacturers whose products are the best on the market: Linksys (quite expensive routers, but high-quality and reliable), Asus (according to reviews, occupies leading places among manufacturers of many devices, including routers), Zyxel (produces at least several models of excellent routers), TP-Link (produces low-cost, but high-quality and reliable models of routers);
• specifications . First of all, choose routers with a normal “stuffing” - RAM (at least 64 MB), processor (300 MHz or more), FLASH memory (from 16 MB). Also pay attention to the power of the device, the presence and number of antennas;
• internet access protocols . Pay attention to the most important part - protocol support. The fact is that different providers use different protocols to provide Internet access: PPTP, L2TP, PPPoE. It is necessary for the purchased router to support the protocol that your provider uses. To do this, ask your ISP for the required data, and then check that the same protocol is specified in the technical specifications of the router;
• WAN port and Internet connection technology . Different routers differ in what port (WAN port) is connected to the Network: Ethernet, ADSL, USB 3G. This is a very important factor of choice, because if you can not connect the Internet cable to the router, the money will be thrown to the wind;
• standards   - today, predominantly, the latest Wi-Fi standard is used: 802.11n. It has already been fully commissioned and the corresponding devices are being released, so there is no point in buying outdated routers that support 802.11b or 802.11g.

ADSL router

Router with Ethernet port

Router with USB 3G port

What is fraught with the wrong choice of router

Why is it so important to choose the right and appropriate router for me? Is it not possible to take the first one that is suitable for the price? What will happen if I buy a router, without really delving into its technical characteristics?

Let's deal with these issues, because the average buyer does not understand the network devices, but simply comes to the store and asks for the advice of the seller. In fact, it is fraught with the fact that money will be thrown to the wind. If you purchase a router that has the wrong connector and does not work with your provider, then you will have to, at best, pass it back to the store. And if the goods are non-refundable, then you will generally lose the money spent. But there are other situations where the router does not fit, and the user does not even notice it, or simply accepts it, thinking that there is no better option.

For example, many devices have insufficient powerthey are designed to distribute the Internet within the confines of one room, and the signal does not pass through the wall. Thus, be sure to pay attention to the power of the router and the number of antennas, external or built-in. Save on power is not worth it, even if you currently do not need a coverage area of ​​100 meters.

Not suitable router  may also trim internet speed. That is, the provider offers you access to the network at a speed of 10 Mbps in both directions. You check your speed and it turns out that it barely reaches 8 Mbps for upload and 4 Mbps for upload. The first thing the user will do is blame the operator for cheating. But it is likely that the matter is quite different - in your router, which simply does not support a higher speed. That is why you should find out about the maximum download and upload speeds available for this router model.

In addition, a poor-quality or low-power router can regularly hang up, reboot, or just disconnect. It is extremely difficult to use the Internet, and seriously get on your nerves. Therefore, it is better to overpay a little, but get a high quality device.

Another issue for a number of routers is small Wi-Fi coverage. In this case, it happens that the signal does not pass through the wall or the router covers only a space of several square meters. Of course, such a device does not fit the owners of a large apartment or a private house. After all, one of the pleasures of living in a private house or in the country is to go out to the yard and use the Internet away from cables and routers. Therefore, a router for such needs should be chosen more effectively, with a good Wi-Fi transmitter.

Even if you do not understand the technical issues of the router or have no one to consult, you can always go online and browse forums, reviews in online stores and specialized websites. There you will find all the information about the work of different routers in a simple user form. On these resources, you, among other things, can learn about the advantages and disadvantages of different models, methods of solving problems that arise, etc.

Zyxel Keenetic

Specifications

WAN port: Ethernet, USB 3G.

Interfaces: 5 RJ-45 connectors (10BASE-T / 100BASE-T) with auto detection of cable type; 1 USB 2.0 type A connector; 2 RP-SMA sockets for connecting external Wi-Fi antennas.

IPTV support: Yes.

Number of antennas: 2.

Antenna design: Removable.

Security features: Firewall (SPI) with protection against DoS and DDoS attacks. Blocking Internet access based on MAC address, IP address, URL, TCP / UDP ports.

Other functions: TVport technology - Multicast streams transit in automatic mode and without CPU time when assigning a LAN connector. Link Duo - simultaneous access to the Internet (L2TP / PPTP / PPPoE) and to local resources of the network provider DHCP (client / server). Work with static IP address. Routing protocol IP. IP Address Translation (Restricted Cone). Route Table (DHCP / Manual)

Dimensions and weight: 162 x 114 x 33 mm, 280 g

Average price: 2 thousand rubles.

Linksys e3200

Specifications

WAN port: Ethernet.

Interfaces: 1 x WAN / 4 x Gigbit Ethernet / 1 x USB 2.0.

Wireless capabilities: IEEE 802.11n.

Number of antennas: 6.

VPN functions: VPN pass through.

Security features: Data encryption: WEP, WPA, WPA2.

Firewall features: Built-in firewall, NAT.

Other features: The ability to connect a 3G-modem. Guest network.

Dimensions and weight: 190 x 170 x 25 mm, 215 g

Average price: 4.5 thousand rubles.

Asus RT-N56U

Specifications

WAN port: Ethernet, USB 3G.

Interfaces: 4 x RJ-45 10/100/1000 Mbit / s, 2 x USB 2.0

Wireless capabilities: IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11n.

Protocol support: PPTP, L2TP, PPPoE.

IPTV support: Yes.

Number of antennas: 2 x for 2.4 GHz, 3 x for 5 GHz.

Antenna design: Built-in.

Security features: Filtering: port, IP packets, keywords URL, MAC address. Support 64/128-bit WEP, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, WPA-Enterprise, WPA2-Enterprise

Firewall features: NAT and SPI.

Other features: Sharing 3G Internet with multiple users.

Dimensions and weight: 172 x 145 x 60 mm, 330 g.

Average price: 4.4 thousand rubles.

TP-Link TL-WR841ND

Specifications

WAN port: Ethernet.

Interfaces: 4 10 / 100M LAN ports (RJ45 type), 1 10 / 100M WAN port (RJ45 type).

Wireless capabilities: IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11n.

Protocol support: PPPoE.

Number of antennas: 2.

Antenna design: Removable.

VPN tunnel support: Yes.

Other functions: The maximum radius of action - 270 m.

Dimensions and weight: 200 x 140 x 28 mm.

Average price: 1 thousand rubles.

TP-LINK TL-WR340GD

Specifications

WAN port: Ethernet.

Interfaces: 4 x RJ-45 10/100 Ethernet LAN port.

Wireless capabilities: IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g.

Protocol support: L2TP, PPPoE.

Number of antennas: 1 (5 dBi).

Antenna design: Removable.

VPN features: VPN Pass Through.

Security features: WEP 64/128/152-bit, WPA / WPA2, WPA-PSK / WPA2-PSK (TKIP / AES).

Other features: Virtual Server. DMZ hosting. UPnP. Remote web management.

Dimensions and weight: 160 x 102 x 28 mm.

Average price: 1 thousand rubles.

I do not know about you, but for me the choice of some kind of technology, including a router, is a bunch of time spent searching for the right model, hundreds of read reviews, and persistent doubts: "take this one or that one". I've been using it for more than a month now, I’m using some kind of old, wired mouse, just because I can't find a new one for myself. And this despite the fact that I basically know what I need, some technical issues, etc.

In this article we will try to deal with the choice of Wi-Fi router for the house or apartment. This is the category of devices in which I can give some advice, talk about all the nuances, and even advise specific models. As for tips on buying specific models, I really do not like to give such advice. If only because I was not in your home, I don’t know for what purpose you choose a router, what kind of Internet you have, how many and what devices you will connect to the Internet, whether there are any interferences in your home, and most importantly, what kind of money do you plan spend to buy a router. This moment concerns not only routers, but also other equipment.

But, if you want direct specific recommendations, then at the end of this article, I will give for example a few models of routers that would be advised to buy. But, if that, I am not guilty. 🙂 Consider we are choosing a router for a private house or apartment. Although, here you can probably still include small offices.

And immediately important advice. If you have an unlimited budget, and it is not a pity to spend a decent bag, then buy one of the most expensive routers, which you will find in some popular online store. Take the one that you like externally. It will cost about 300 dollars. (if not to take into account Apple routers). But, it will definitely work stably, and it will be all that you need.

And one more tip. If you want to save as much as possible and purchase the most budget router, then you will need it.

First, we will understand the technical points that you should pay attention to when choosing a router. For what purposes the one or another model will be suitable, and whether there will be any problems during use. Then, I will write my opinion on which Wi-Fi router is better to buy in 2016 and 2017, so that your purchase will not quickly become outdated, and you will not have to buy a new model in a year. Well, as promised, I will advise a couple of specific routers that should be suitable for an apartment (private house).

Choosing a router for home: technical issues

First of all, you need to figure out what kind of router we need. In terms of technical characteristics: wAN type  port, the number of LAN-ports and their speed, the frequency of the Wi-Fi network and its speed, the presence of USB-connectors, and various additional functions.

You should already roughly understand the purpose for which you will use the router. It is clear that you are most likely to buy it to distribute the Internet to your devices via a Wi-Fi network, and possibly via a network cable.

Council  If you have desktop computers (without Wi-Fi), then after installing the router, do not lay cables to them, but connect them wireless network, you can buy immediately.

The main thing you need to focus on when choosing a router for your home is the area that should be covered by the Wi-Fi network signal, the number of devices that will connect to the router, and the tasks that you will perform on these devices.

Everything is simple here: a router can simply not cover all the rooms in your house with a signal. For example, due to a weak transmitter, or antennas (and their quantities). And if you buy a cheap router, then it simply will not be able to work stably when connecting a large number of devices. Or, when watching online video in high quality, in online games, etc. There will be constant freezes, reboots and the like. As you already understand, everything is very individual. As a rule, the more expensive a router is, the more load it can withstand, it will work more stably, and the Wi-Fi signal can “punch” further.

We select the router for the provider (type of WAN port)

The first thing you should pay attention to is the type of WAN connector. This is a way to connect a router to an Internet provider. The characteristics always indicate this information. It all depends on what kind of internet you have.

• Ethernet  - the most popular type of connection. This is a typical RJ-45 network connector. Almost all Wi-Fi routers that are on the market have an Ethernet WAN port. And the provider in your house runs the usual network cable, which we directly connect to the router.
• ADSL modems with Wi-Fi  - in fact, they are ordinary routers, only as a WAN port, they have an RJ-11 connector for connecting a telephone cable. And if you already have an ordinary ADSL modem, then you need to buy a simple router, with a normal Ethernet port (and connect it to the modem).
• 3G / 4G Wi-Fi routers - if you have internet via a USB modem, and you want to set up Internet distribution via Wi-Fi, then you need a special router with support for 3G / 4G modems. About the choice of a router for working with a USB-modem, I wrote in the article. Usually, in the characteristics of such routers it is written: WAN-port - USB 3G. Update:   New article with tips on choosing a router for working with USB modems:

There are routers that can be called universal. Because, they can have for example an ordinary Ethernet port for connecting to the Internet, and a USB port for working with 3G modems. But, the presence of USB-port does not mean that there is support for modems. Need to look at the characteristics.

Protocol support:  one more thing that I think you can ignore. I will enter protocols for connecting to an Internet provider: L2TP, PPPoE, PPTP. On modern routers, with this problem should arise. Unless, you have some special provider.

Wi-Fi network: frequency, speed, range

The frequency of Wi-Fi network (5 GHz and 2.4 GHz)  - at the time of this writing (May 2016), most routers (mostly not expensive)which are on sale, distribute Wi-Fi a network at the usual frequency of 2.4 GHz which is already heavily loaded. But, actively appear on the market models that support the work of Wi-Fi at a frequency of 5 GHz. This is a new technology, and it is a router with support for the frequency of 5 GHz, I would advise you to buy in 2016 - 2017. Learn more about dual band routers. (dual band because it supports 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz), advantages and compatibility, I already wrote in the article:. Already you can find dual-band models at a very good price.

Wi-Fi speed  - the cheapest models of routers, distribute Wi-Fi at speeds up to 150 Mbps. I would advise not to buy such models. Unless, you take a router for connecting one or three devices and for surfing the Internet, or watching videos in not high quality. It is better to report 5-10 dollars, and buy a model that distributes a wireless network at speeds up to 300 Mbps.

As for wireless standards, there must be support for 802.11n. And if you choose a router from the middle price category and above, then it is advisable to take a model with the support of a new, high-speed one.

The speed depends on many factors: the number of connected devices, the power of the router, the provider, interference, etc. Read the reviews, as a rule, they immediately write there, strongly the router cuts speed over Wi-Fi, or not. Regarding the speed of connection over the wireless network, you can read more.

Radius wi-Fi action  network  - many ask: "how to choose a router with the maximum range of the wireless network." The question is good, and understandable, but it is very difficult to give a concrete answer. Because, the radius of the action is greatly influenced by the walls. (their quantity and materials), interference (mainly from neighboring Wi-Fi networks), the location of the router in the house, and of the power of the router itself. The signal passes very badly through concrete mills that have metal.

If you have a large apartment, say more than 100 squares, or a house of several floors, then most likely one router will be small, even the most powerful. In this case, the most correct option is.

And if you choose a router for a one-room apartment, then in your case even the cheapest model will suffice, in terms of network coverage. For medium-sized homes, I would advise buying routers for as low as $ 50. Well, it is advisable to buy models with at least two antennas (5dBi power). But, there are good models with internal antennas that are almost as good as external ones. As a rule, the presence of, for example, three or more antennas, does not affect the range of a Wi-Fi network, but the connection speed. Also, it is worth paying attention, removable antennas, or not. In case you want to replace them, install more powerful ones.

According to my observations, the range does not greatly depend on the price of the router itself. Most likely because the maximum power of the router is simply limited by the manufacturer. (in accordance with the laws of the country to which they are delivered).

Availability of ports: LAN and USB

At least 1 LAN port will definitely be there. Usually, on routers 4 LAN ports. It happens more. LAN port is needed to connect devices to the Internet via a network cable. (PCs, TVs, game consoles, etc.).

As for USB-ports, now they are not on cheap models. But it seems to me that soon there will be no routers without USB. Therefore, I advise you to choose a router with the presence of at least one USB port. It is needed to connect Usb drives, printers, or USB 3G modems (if there is modem support). By connecting a USB flash drive, or an external HDD to the router, you can organize general access to files, or run a DLNA server. And having connected the printer, it is possible to configure the print server.

It all depends on the specific model and manufacturer. For example, models from ASUS, are still able to independently download files to the drive. I already wrote,. You can see, for example.

Wi-Fi router power and performance

The filling of the router is also very important. Than more powerful processorand more random access memory, the more stable the router will work. It will keep more connected devices, withstand downloading torrents, online games, DLNA server work, and so on. And at the same time, most importantly, there will be no drop in speed, ping, packet loss.

I do not think that it is necessary to study directly all the nuances associated with the iron on which the one or another router works, unless you are interested. Everything is very simple here, the more expensive the model, the more powerful it is. If you buy a router for 15-20 dollars, connect several devices to it, start downloading a torrent, an online game, and open another online video, then most likely it will just hang. Or, the speed will drop very much. And it will work only after a reboot. This is quite normal for its price range.

That's exactly why I do not advise saving on the router. Because, you connect all your computers, tablets, phones, TVs to it, and all of them will suffer from a weak router, which will cut the speed all the time, and just “fall” from the load. This brings a lot of inconvenience, and most likely, you will soon think about buying a new router, more powerful and, accordingly, expensive.

Price and manufacturer

At the moment, the cheapest router can be bought for about $ 15. I already wrote above that such routers buy only if you do not need a lot of performance and speed.

It is better, of course, to take routers that cost from $ 30 and up. This is purely my opinion. These devices are suitable for home use, but without fanaticism. Here you need to understand that we receive exactly as much as we pay. Well, it all depends on the tasks that the router has to deal with specifically in your case.

As for the manufacturer, the most popular of course is TP-LINK, ASUS, D-LINK, ZyXEL, Linksys, Tenda, Netis. If you're interested, then I have ASUS now. I love TP-LINK routers, which I also often use and advise others. With relatives, the inexpensive TP-LINK TL-WR841N has been operating without any problems for more than five years. Not so long ago, I met with the routers from ZyXEL. Also very much. Tenda makes inexpensive models.

I think that you do not need to focus on the manufacturer. Look at the models, on the characteristics, price, in appearance, finally. I am familiar with the routers of all the manufacturers that I listed above, and I can’t say that it’s some kind of bad and some kind of bad. Each manufacturer, there are certain points that I personally liked, or did not like (control panel, equipment, instructions, packaging, configuration process, reliability, etc.). But it almost does not affect the operation of the router.

I often see questions like: "which router is better, ASUS, or TP-LINK". One can argue endlessly which brand is better and which one is worse. I believe that in this case, it would be more correct to consider specific models that are close in price.

With the price and the brand figured out: the more expensive the better, and the brand is an amateur.

Which router to choose in 2016 - 2017

In my opinion, in 2017 you need to buy a dual-band router (which supports Wi-Fi 5 GHz, and 802.11ac). And to have at least one USB port. Even if you do not need it now.

These two points are: support for Wi-Fi at 5 GHz, and availability USB portand, they make the router modern, and it will not become obsolete in half a year. Most likely, in 2017 it will be relevant, and you will not have to change it.

I tell an example from own experience. This winter (around December 2015)I bought a new router to my parents house. He works there with a 3G USB modem. Bought not cheap. Good, powerful router, with two USB ports (one is connected to a modem, and the second drive). But, it does not support the operation of the wireless network at a frequency of 5 GHz. And after some time after the purchase, I realized that I was wrong with the choice. By purchasing an expensive router without the support of a new standard.

Sooner or later, you will want to connect your devices to a Wi-Fi network at a frequency of 5 GHz (more speed, and less noise, especially important for apartments). Or, you want to organize the general access to files, on the drive connected to a router. Therefore, it is better to spend a large sum right away than to buy a new router in a year. In addition, now you can find a completely affordable dual-band router with a USB port, for about $ 30.

This is solely my opinion, and you certainly can disagree with him.

Everything is very difficult, what exactly to buy a router for the house?

I wrote at the beginning of the article that you need to select a router specifically for your needs. And you need to focus on the very room where it will work, and of finance. And yet, I wrote that I really do not like to give advice on specific models. In addition, I do not know anything about you, about your house and the tasks that the router must perform. But, if you are already asking for it :), then I will recommend several models of routers that should be suitable for a small house or apartment. And to connect a small number of devices. I will advise only those models with which I worked. We divide them into three categories.

Inexpensive, modern router

First of all, I will certainly recommend a router, or TP-LINK Archer C20. This is not the cheapest model for the home, but it is dual-band (Wi-Fi 5 GHz), there is 1 USB port, and it looks very nice.

Easily suitable for home, and without any problems will cope with watching online video, downloading torrents, and online games. If you look at other manufacturers, not many have similar models. According to the characteristics and price, only the Asus RT-AC51U and Xiaomi WiFi MiRouter 3 are similar. Perhaps there have already appeared some other options.

The most budget option for a small apartment

If you want to save well, you have a small house and some devices, you can consider the following options:

Very often there are new models, and I am not familiar with all the options that can be considered for purchase. Therefore, look for suitable routers, read reviews, navigate by price and take the model that you like best. Now there is no problem with this, we go into any online store, and we choose not to get bored.

We did not consider expensive models. I think that this is not the point. If possible, buy. They will accurately cope with the tasks. Especially if you have a TV with Smart TV, for which you need a stable connection at a good speed.

Afterword

I hope that my advice somehow helped you decide on the choice of router, and you were able to get the best option that will please you with stable work.

It is important to understand that no one will be able to choose for you a suitable version of the router. At least until the ports, until you get the necessary information about the house in which it will be installed (area, walls), about the devices for which you need to provide access to the Internet, and about the tasks that will be performed on these devices.

Summing up, I repeat that it is better not to save money on the router. Buy as expensive as possible in your case. And if you are already considering cheaper options, you can navigate by the models I wrote about above. Well, it is advisable to buy dual band router, with at least one USB port.

  Today, the Internet is in almost every second apartment of our country. The Internet is developing at a tremendous pace, exactly as its transmission technologies are developing. If at the end of the nineties and until the middle of the two thousandth, Internet speed was measured in kilobytes, at the end of the two thousandth - in megabits, now the calculation of the Internet speed is already in gigabytes! Previously, access to the Internet was carried out only by wire, but now data transfer can occur in wireless mode.
Next we consider the following questions:

What is a Wi-Fi router for?

A Wi-Fi router is needed in order to organize access to the Internet to several devices simultaneously. That is, if you have several devices on which you want to configure access to the Internet, then you need a router. If some of these devices support data exchange using Wi-Fi technology, then you need not a simple router, but a Wi-Fi router.
A Wi-Fi router is a network device that the Internet connects to in order to distribute it to multiple devices. Internet distribution is carried out both via LAN and Wi-Fi. Thus, if you have a home: a computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone, and with the ability to access the Internet, then a Wi-Fi router will help you. In those devices in which there is no Wi-Fi module, they are connected to the router via LAN.

How to choose a Wi-Fi router

ManufacturerWi-Fi router
In principle, the choice of a router, first of all, must be made on the basis of its technical characteristics, but the company also plays an important role. Therefore, we advise you to make a choice of the parameters of the router, initially narrowing their choice to such companies as: ASUS, D-link, HP, TP-LINK.
Wi-Fi standard
The network standard Wi-Fi has 4 types:

• 802.11 a - transmits data at speeds up to 54 Mbps;


• 802.11 b - transmits data at speeds up to 11 Mbps;


• 802.11 g - transmits data at speeds up to 54 Mbps;


• 802.11 n - transmits data at speeds up to 600 Mbps;


• 802.11 ac - data transfer speeds above 1 Gbit / s.

We recommend to purchase a Wi-Fi router with a network standard not lower than the standard 802.11 n.
Maximum connection speed
Pay attention to such a parameter as the maximum connection speed so that the router does not limit your Internet speed. That is, if your tariff plan, let's say 60 megabits, and the router’s bandwidth is only 30, then the channel will be cut by the router by half. Try to choose such a Wi-Fi router, the real connection speed of which will exceed the speed of your tariff plan. In addition to the official data on the speed of the router - there are real ones, you can find them out by feedback from users on the Internet.
Router and DHCP server
Router (Router) - provides simultaneous access of all devices connected to it. For each device connected to the router, a DHCP server assigns an internal ip-address, this allows you to connect several devices using the same external ip-address.
The router adjusts the work with the provider, or as they say "raises the connection", and is a buffer between it and your home network devices.
Wi-Fi range
Radius of action wi-Fi networks  - a parameter that defines the boundaries of the zone of the Wi-Fi network. This indicator is abstract, as it is calculated from ideal conditions (absence of walls and partitions, absence of radio and magnetic interference, etc.). Therefore, if the manufacturer indicates the range of the router is 100 m, then in real conditions (in the apartment) the range will be approximately 20 m. To ensure stable operation Wi-Fi channel, give preference to a router with a wide radius of action. Consider what better quality  Wi-Fi network, the higher the speed of data exchange.

Antennas
The number of antennas in the Wi-Fi router depends on the speed of data transmission. If there is one antenna in the device, then it works both on reception and on data transmission, and when other devices are connected to Wi-Fi, the router will need to slow down to ensure correct work  data transmission.
Two antennas in the router work as follows - one for transmission, the other for reception, which allows you to separate the streams and at the same time maintain the maximum speed.
A Wi-Fi router with three antennas works in this way: one antenna is on reception, the other two are on transmission and due to this a stable and high speed of data exchange is provided.
The maximum possible number of antennas in a Wi-Fi router is 6 pieces. Accordingly, the more antennas in the device, the better the Wi-Fi network will work.
At choosing wifi  router note that the antennas in it were removable, as this will instead install more powerful individual antennas to increase the coverage of the Wi-Fi network.
Data encryption method
To ensure that no one can connect to your Wi-Fi network, data encryption is used. To date, there are 2 methods to encrypt data: WEP and WPA. As a rule, the vast majority of routers include both of these encryption methods, but the best of them is considered to be the WPA encryption method - it is more reliable.
USB interface
USB connector in a Wi-Fi router allows you to connect other devices to it. For example, you can connect an external hDD  or a USB flash drive, in order to open access to files on it, for all devices from the network. Also, you can connect a printer to the USB connector to allow access to other network devices. You can also connect a 3G modem to the USB connector, but for this the router must support this function.
3G modem connectivity
The presence of a USB interface in a Wi-Fi router does not mean that it will work with a 3G modem, a special feature must be implemented for this. With this opportunity, you can share access to 3G Internet on multiple devices. This is necessary for those who do not have the ability to connect a landline provider, or 3G Internet is a permutation option for problems with a landline.
ADSL support
If you are connected to ADSL internet, we recommend to purchase a Wi-Fi router with ADSL support. Due to this, in addition to routing, your router will also perform the functions of an ADSL modem, and you will not need to use 2 devices: an ADSL modem and a Wi-Fi router - both of these devices will be in one.
Number of switch ports
Another important parameter is the number of switch ports. As a rule, most access points include 4 Ethernet ports, thanks to which you can also build a wired network. For example: you can connect stationary computers, a TV, a receiver to Ethernet ports, and a smartphone, tablet and laptop - to Wi-Fi, and all these devices will be on the same network, only connected in different ways.
Remember that the speed of data exchange via Ethernet is better and higher than via Wi-Fi, which is why it is better to connect stationary computer equipment via Ethernet.

Port speed
As we said above, today the speed of data exchange is calculated in gigabits. Most providers offer maximum Internet access speeds of up to 100 Mbit / s, but technologies are developing and therefore, very soon, Internet access speeds will amount to hundreds of megabits, and this requires a Wi-Fi router that will support Gigabit networks.
If you are an active Internet user, we recommend you choose your router, whose port speeds (WAN and LAN) are 1000 Mbps, this will allow the router to keep its relevance for as long as possible. If you intend to watch HD movies on your computer that are on your computer, local network  should also be gigabit. But keep in mind, such routers are much more expensive.
If you do not need high speed, then give preference to the router with a speed of 100 Mbps.
Web interface
Due to the presence of the Web interface, you can configure the router through a browser, that is, the settings menu will be in the form of a Web site.
The possibility of flashing
As a rule, all routers have the ability to update software (firmware). Essentially, the firmware is operating system  device that organizes his work. New versions of firmware include fixing any errors in the device and expand its functionality. Therefore, choose a router that can be easily reflashed and for which new versions of firmware are being created.

How to choose a Wi-Fi router

How to choose a budget router

TP-LINK TL-WR743ND
This model of Wi-Fi router has a low price and at the same time includes good technical characteristics. The router is suitable for those who do not need high speed data transfer, and the main task is to organize access of home devices to the network.
TP-LINK TL-WR743ND includes: 4 LAN ports at 100 Mbps for connecting devices via a network cable and 1 WAN port at 100 Mbps for connecting a provider. Supports standard wireless connectivity  802.11n, has a 1-well removable antenna. Among the security features, you can note the protection against DoS-attacks and the WPA-PSK / WPA2-PSK encryption system. Maximum wi-Fi speed  connections - 150 Mbit / s.
Device price: 1000 rubles.

How to choose a Wi-Fi router for home

TP-LINKTl-WR1043ND
If you do not know which router to choose for your home, then this is the best option. TL-WR1043ND combines high speed data transfer, as well as high-quality Wi-Fi network signal.
The router is equipped with 4 gigabit LAN ports  and one gigabit WAN port, there is also 1 USB port. Wireless standard is 802.11n, WPA-PSK / WPA2-PSK encryption. It is worth noting the presence of 3 removable antennas. The maximum speed over Wi-Fi is 300 Mbps. Implemented IPTV support.
Device price: 2000 rubles.

Which router is the best

ASUSRT-AC66U
The best router for today is aSUS router  RT-AC66U, its advantage is that it has a high bandwidth  and low price compared to peers.
The router has 4 LAN ports with a speed of 1 Gigabit / s, 1 Gigabit WAN port and 2 USB ports. It works on the 802.11ac wireless standard, providing Wi-Fi speeds of up to 1300 Mbps. The router has 3 dual-band antennas. The type of data encryption is WPA2-PSK and below. In addition, the router has: DoS-protection, network filter, address filter and port filter. Implemented IPTV support.
Router price: 6000 rubles.

A router is a very complex device with many technical characteristics. We will focus on those that play an important role for the buyer.

WAN port type and connection protocols

The WAN (or Internet) connector is used to connect an Internet cable to the router. This is the first part that is worth paying attention to when buying a device. The compatibility of the chosen model with the provider depends on it.

A typical router has a WAN port in one of two formats:

1. DSL(ADSL, VDSL and other subtypes) - to connect to the Internet via a telephone line.
2. Ethernet - to connect through a special channel provider.

There are and universal routersthat support multiple formats, including DSL and Ethernet. But they are much less common.

First of all, find out what technical requirements for your router your Internet service provider imposes. Visit the official website of the provider or call the support service.

In addition to the format of the WAN port, the technical requirements may include connection protocols with which the router must be compatible.

If instead of DSL and Ethernet the provider uses specific connection technologies, which happens rarely, then the choice and equipment is better to be trusted by specialists.

Number and type of LAN ports

Computers, consoles, televisions and other fixed equipment that needs stable wired access to the network are connected to the LAN ports of the router. Such a connection always guarantees maximum speed, which is independent of distance and interference.

And the more such connectors in the router, the more devices you can connect to it through the wire. Usually, routers are equipped with four LAN ports. But if this is not enough for you, choose a model with additional connectors.

The type of LAN-ports depends on the maximum speed of data exchange between the router and other devices connected to it via a wire.

There are two such types:

1. Fast ethernet  provides speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
2. Gigabit ethernet  - up to 1 Gbit / s.

If your provider offers Internet access at a speed of more than 100 Mbps, choose a router model with Gigabit Ethernet ports. So you will use your channel to the full.

Wi-Fi standards

The maximum possible data exchange rate between the router and the fleet of devices connected to it depends on the Wi-Fi standard. wirelessly. Two standards are relevant:

1. 802.11n  - a widespread version that is supported by the absolute majority of gadgets. Possible speed - up to 600 Mbit / s.
2. 802.11ac  - a standard that is gaining popularity, provides the highest speed - up to 6.77 Gbps.

But don't let the characteristics confuse you: these values ​​are only theoretically possible within the technology. Real speed indicators are much lower.

The speed that the manufacturer indicates in practice is also often unreachable. This is only possible without taking into account the distance and interference.

Thanks to backward compatibility to the 802.11ac router, you can connect any gadget via WI-Fi. Even if they only support 802.11n and older versions. But to unlock the full potential of the 802.11ac, both the router and all other devices on your wireless network must support this standard.

It is not necessary to chase the novelty and buy a router with support for 802.11ac. If you use the Internet only for web surfing and office tasks, you can save money and get along with the model with the 802.11n standard.

Number of Wi-Fi ranges

Some routers can operate simultaneously in different frequency ranges. In this mode, the router is able to support not one but several independent Wi-Fi networks.

Many popular models are able to distribute data transfer between two ranges. Thus, they create two networks at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, respectively.

1. 2.4 GHz frequency  ideal for connecting smartphones and office equipment.
2. 5 GHz frequency  provides a more stable and faster connection, and therefore is better suited for multimedia devices that work with video and other heavy content. So, if there is no desire to connect a TV or set-top box through the wires, you can use Wi-Fi at a frequency of 5 GHz.

These networks can work in parallel without restricting each other. But again, their total speed will not exceed the limit set by the ISP.

In addition, not all gadgets support a network with a frequency of 5 GHz.

The number and type of antennas

In addition to the standard and frequency of Wi-Fi, the speed of the wireless network depends on the number of antennas in the router. The more of them, the faster the exchange of data between the connected devices and the router.

The maximum speed of Wi-Fi in the standard 802.11n for a model with a single antenna is 150 Mbps. With two - 300 Mbit / s, with three - 450 Mbit / s. That is, with each antenna, the maximum possible speed is increased by 150 Mbit / s. And in the standard 802.11ac - at 433 Mbit / s.

Recall that we are talking about theoretically possible speeds under ideal conditions. In fact, these figures are much lower. In addition, do not forget that the total speed of access to the Internet via Wi-Fi can not exceed the limit of the provider.

Antennas can be built-in and external. As practice shows, in a typical urban apartment type antenna type is not so important. Contrary to popular myth, the difference is barely noticeable.

But for large rooms it is still worth choosing a router with external antennas, so as not to have. In addition, if external antennas are removable, if necessary, they can be replaced with more powerful ones.

USB port

By choosing a router with one or a pair of USB connectors, you can connect additional devices to it. For example, a USB drive will provide remote access  to shared file storage via any device on the Wi-Fi network. A wireless USB modem will become your backup way to the Network if cable internet  will stop working.

Brief instructions for choosing

Let's go through the key points of the article again. This checklist will help you choose a good router.

1. Find out the requirements of the provider to the router: the type of WAN connector and connection protocols. Only then choose a model.
2. With Internet speeds above 100 Mbps, buy a device with LAN ports of Gigabit Ethernet format (1 Gbps). If the speed is lower, there will be enough Fast Ethernet connectors (100 Mbps).
3. If you only need access to the web to view websites and work with documents, you can limit yourself to a router with one antenna and support for the 802.11n wireless standard.
4. But if you watch streaming video, play online games, use a lot wireless devices, often download large files and are not used to deny yourself, then choose a dual-band router with several antennas and support for 802.11ac.
5. If you wish, you can buy a model with a USB port to connect a drive or a wireless modem to it.