4 Considerations When Buying a Router for a Home Network

Wireless routers are integral components of a home internet system since they help to connect various devices such as video game consoles, smart TVs, and computers to the internet. A wireless router must be considered for reliable internet connectivity when upgrading an existing home network or deploying a new one. Here are some tips when you want to buy a wireless router for a home network.  

Internet Service Provider (ISP) Issued Router -- On most occasions, an ISP will bundle the cost of a router into the home internet plan during the signing up phase. ISP routers are standard and can handle a few connected devices at acceptable speeds. However, the package does not stop you from buying a cutting-edge router with enhanced performance and speed. Most importantly, the router should be able to handle multiple devices in your home and still provide room for expansion. The bottom line is that your budget and internet requirements should determine whether to keep an ISP issued router or to buy another one.

Speed Ratings -- Router speeds are measured in bits per second. Standard router speed ratings range from 11 megabits per second (Mbps) up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps). However, if the speed offered by your ISP is lower than your router rating, then the device cannot affect the actual performance of a home network. Therefore, determine your home network speed needs before settling on any router. Notably, different gadgets required different internet speeds.

Smart Routers -- Apart from speeds, new routers are now intelligent in the sense that they can control how and when devices can be connected to the internet with ease. Intelligent routers have more channels than conventional routers that can be integrated with multiple devices in a smart home such as door locks, motion sensors, and other security systems. When in the market for smart routers, ensure that they have antivirus software to protect your home and devices against attacks. Most smart routers are programmed to analyse outgoing and incoming data traffic for suspicious activities that are then flagged. Furthermore, some intelligent routers can prioritise bandwidth to specific devices through programming.   

Range -- Apart from the speed of a router, its positioning determines whether the antenna will radiate signals to all sections of a house. There should be no barriers to prevent blocking of signals. However, since most homes do not have an open floor plan, you might find dead spots such as basements that are not covered by the wireless signal. Therefore, you might need to buy accessories such as power-line adapters or Wi-Fi range extenders to boost the network coverage.

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