Wireless-n routers can support as much as four Ethernet lines and numerous wireless connections for various devices. The newest routers delivers wireless speeds nearly comparable to a direct line and can work with devices for example mobile phones, wireless TVs, video games along with other Wi-Fi enabled devices. If you reside in an apartment or standard-size home with simply a handful of devices to support, this type of router will meet your requirements perfectly. If you live in a large home or have numerous devices to support you will need to turn to our premium router reviews.
We've compared wireless-N routers and offer detailed reviews based on useful evaluation criteria to narrow choices meant for purchasing decisions. To learn more and details, read our articles about wireless routers and peruse side-by-side reviews of high-quality products like the Linksys E1200, the Cisco Valet and also the Apple AirPort Express.
Wireless-N Routers: What to Look For
Wireless-n routers are backwards compatible and still support IEEE 802.11a/b/g standards, and many include two internal antennas for increased reliability. Most routers within this range can support up to four Ethernet lines and many wireless devices easily. The routers come with the ability to lock down access to secure your devices and bandwidth. The very best N routers also come with parental controls and powerful encryption methods.
The factors we accustomed to evaluate wireless routers include:
AttributesFor the sake of developing a relevant product comparisons, we've checked out routers in this range that share similar attributes for example IEEE 802.11n Wi-Fi standards, 2.4 GHz band and dual antennas. If you are looking for a new router, nothing more than an N router should be considered. For those who have a wireless G router, it might be wise to upgrade to some wireless N router that may provide increased bandwidth utilization - you will observe the difference. The most recent routers may also increase speed with Wi-Fi Service quality software (QoS) standard, which makes efficient utilization of Ethernet connections by prioritizing multimedia traffic according to the application’s sensitivity to delay. Many wireless N routers likewise use multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) radio antennae to boost speeds.
SecurityThe best routers protect your bandwidth by locking down outside access to your data by encrypting wireless data transfers. Wi-Fi routers include firewalls according to Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) or Network Address Translation (NAT) technology, or both. SPI detects traffic patterns that seem to be from hackers. NAT hides all of the devices in your wireless network behind a single IP address.
Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2) encrypts communication sessions. WPA and WPA2 are superior to the previous method, Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Most vendors continue to offer WEP to be able to support previous-generation Wi-Fi clients that can’t use WPA or WPA2. Parental controls and guest access features are available on some, but not all, home routers. For telecommuters who use personal internet accounts from home to access an online Private Network at the office, you will find home wireless products that support VPN passthrough.
Simplicity of use
Routers have become easy to use, thanks to features for example UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) to facilitate the bond of multimedia players. Additionally, WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is a single button that configures and secures client devices. Most routers are available with a CD or USB device that will offer you systematic instructions regarding how to set up your router securely.
Help and Support
You ought to be able to setup your router easily, but in the event you need assistance, it must be readily available. Take into account your height of expertise while you consider whether you need phone an internet-based chat or if you can get by on email or user-forum access. Wireless routers typically include a one-year warranty, but some offer two-year warranties.
Few households today could possibly get by without a wireless router. Wireless n routers can offer fast, reliable internet through four Ethernet lines and via Wi-Fi to your cell phone, web-enabled TVs and video games. For those who have several gamers in the house or want to stream High definition tv or any other bandwidth demanding media, consider a premium wireless router.