The demand for a better, faster, and more reliable internet connection is now more intense compared to the past years. With more people working from home, streaming videos, and playing video games, it is only right that you get the best router that can deliver the necessary speed for your internet needs.
However, choosing which router will suit your needs is not an easy task. The market is flooded with so many choices from different brands. This makes choosing one a challenge.
So, how does one choose a router? Let’s find out how below!
- How much are you willing to spend?
Routers are priced differently. They can range from $100 to $300 or even more, depending on the features. Thus, you must set a budget first before looking for various options in order not to overspend.
Again, the more features your router offers, the higher the cost will be.
- Is it compatible with your ISP?
Compatibility with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is also an important factor to consider, as this will determine whether your router will work efficiently or not. Incompatibility between your ISP and router will affect your browsing speed, the number of devices that can connect to the internet, or will not allow you to connect at all.
- Single router or mesh system?
Most people prefer a router that has a range that can cover the entire house. Some are living in a studio and do not need a wide range of internet connection. So, you should consider the space of your living area first, as it will also add to the cost and will certainly affect your overall connectivity.
Routers come with information on the square footage which they can cover. However, there are physical factors that will also affect your router’s range and performance, such as thick walls, insulation, and other devices. These factors will interfere with your signal, especially at longer distances.
There are powerful single routers that can provide efficient connections with wide coverage. However, you must keep in mind that these routers are often large devices with multiple antennas and are notably expensive.
Mesh systems have a central hub that connects a router to satellites or nodes which are placed around the house. This is recommended for houses with thick walls and insulations if you intend to have an internet connection in various rooms.
You must ask these questions first before getting a new router. Once you have sorted the answers to the above-mentioned questions, you will have a clearer idea as to what type of router you need and should get. By asking these questions, you can be assured that you will get the best router according to your needs and preferences.