Having a quality wifi router is a crucial factor in ensuring a stable and high-speed internet experience. However, not everyone knows how to choose a wifi router that suits their needs. In this article, Genfamer will guide you through 12 important criteria for choosing the right wifi router, helping you make the most of your network connection in any situation.
Criteria for choosing a wifi router – Brand of the Wifi Router
How to choose a wifi router from reputable and popular brands
Brand is one of the first factors you need to consider when choosing a wifi router. Well-known brands like TP-Link, Asus, Netgear, Linksys, or Xiaomi often guarantee product quality and durability. Reputable brands usually provide good customer support and regular firmware updates to optimize security and performance. Additionally, products from major brands make it easier to find replacement parts or get repairs when needed.
Number of users
Determine the number of users when buying a Wifi Router
Determining the number of network users is a crucial factor when choosing a router. If your family only has 3-4 people, a mid-range router can meet your needs. However, if you’re using it in a small office or have many devices connected simultaneously, you need to choose a router with high load capacity that can support multiple connections without slowing down the network speed.
Traffic and connection bandwidth
Prioritize choosing Router models with high speed and wide connection bandwidth
If you use the internet for basic needs like browsing the web, checking emails, or watching HD videos, a router with a speed of 300Mbps to 600Mbps is sufficient. However, if you need to play online games, stream 4K videos, or download large files, prioritize router models that support higher speeds and have wide bandwidth to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted connection.
Single-band or dual-band
Determine your area to choose a Router with a suitable frequency bandWifi routers today are often divided into two types: single-band (2.4GHz) and dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz). If you live in an area with little signal interference and only use the network for basic tasks, a single-band router is an economical choice. Meanwhile, a dual-band router is suitable for crowded places, with many devices, or for large data transmission needs, thanks to its ability to operate on the less congested and faster 5GHz band.
Wifi connection standard
You should choose Wifi Router models with the latest connection standard
The wifi connection standard directly affects the speed and compatibility of the router. Currently, the Wifi 6 (802.11ax) standard is the most advanced technology, offering high speed, support for multiple simultaneous connections, and energy savings. If your budget is limited, you can choose a router that supports the Wifi 5 (802.11ac) standard, which still provides good performance for most usage needs.
Broadcast range
Broadcast range is also a criterion to note in how to choose a wifi router
Depending on the area you need to cover, you should choose a router with a suitable broadcast range. For a small apartment or a single room, a standard router can suffice. However, if you live in a large or multi-story house, consider router models with stronger transmission power or support for mesh technology to extend the wifi range, ensuring a stable connection in all areas of the house.
Criteria for choosing a wifi router – Antennas
Antennas greatly affect the broadcast range and stability of the wifi signal
The router’s antenna has a significant impact on the range and stability of the wifi signal. Routers with external antennas often provide stronger broadcast capabilities and are easier to adjust for better coverage in desired areas. If you’re using it in a large or multi-story space, choose a router with external, high-gain antennas (usually measured in dBi). For small spaces or high aesthetic requirements, a router with internal antennas is also a reasonable choice.
Criteria for choosing a wifi router – Wired or wireless connection
Choose a Router with a wired or wireless connection suitable for your needs
Routers today usually support both wired (Ethernet) and wireless (wifi) connections. If you need high speed and low latency, especially for tasks like online gaming or working with large data, a wired connection is the preferred choice. Meanwhile, a wireless connection offers flexibility and convenience, suitable for mobile devices like phones, tablets, or laptops. Make sure your router has enough LAN ports if you need to use a wired connection.
Compatibility
Ensure wifi is compatible with other devices
A good router needs to be compatible with existing devices and network systems. Before buying, check if the router supports modern wifi standards like Wifi 5 or Wifi 6, and is compatible with devices in your home such as computers, phones, smart TVs, or smart home systems. Additionally, if you are using an internet service provider, ensure the router is compatible with their configuration and technology.
Security
Prioritize choosing Router types with the most advanced security protocols
Security is a critical factor that cannot be overlooked when choosing a wifi router. Prioritize devices that support advanced security protocols like WPA3, which helps protect your wifi network from attacks or unauthorized access. In addition, features like a firewall, MAC address filtering, and regular firmware updates are also essential to ensure the safety of your network.
Advanced features
You can choose to buy Router models with more advanced features if desired
Some modern routers are equipped with advanced features to optimize the user experience. For example, the Quality of Service (QoS) feature allows you to prioritize bandwidth for important applications or devices, ensuring a smooth connection even when the network is under high load. Many other routers also support a built-in VPN, which helps secure your connection when accessing the internet remotely. Additionally, if you use a router in a family setting, features like parental controls are also very useful.
Supports remote management on a phone
Choose a Router that allows management by phone
Today, many modern routers support remote management via a phone app. This feature allows you to check and adjust network settings, manage connected devices, or restart the router anytime, anywhere. Some apps also offer parental control features, helping you easily manage internet access time and content.
Conclusion
Hopefully, with the 12 criteria shared on how to choose a wifi router, you have gained useful information to make the right decision in choosing a wifi router. A suitable router not only helps improve network speed and stability but also provides the best connection experience for your family or work. Carefully consider your usage needs and apply these criteria to choose the most optimal device!
