How to Choose a Wi-Fi Router? – Overview
A router is a gadget that connects an internet signal to the modem and ensures that the specific webpage which is desired by the user is displayed on his or her device at the desired speed.
A modem is the translation apparatus that decrypts internet communication into a form that can be understood and displayed by relevant electronic devices such as computers and smartphones.
Routers and Roles
The continuous development and improvement of routers have been necessitated by the rise of the information age, which has made a village out of the globe in terms of communication.
There is an increased need for fast and versatile circulation of information across various networks. Routers make this possible by facilitating traffic between different networks as far as regulating broadcast hosts is concerned.
Routers act as portals between hosts by continuously making use of the routing table to determine where incoming data should be sent to.
Routers also perform auxiliary network roles, such as offering cybersecurity and network switching services.
This means that they can act as firewalls while monitoring the inflow and outflow of traffic in a network.
Choosing a Router
It is important to note that Wi-Fi routers are offered in different specifications because they serve a variety of users and needs.
This means that it is of utmost importance for potential users to understand their needs before choosing which router they want to install.
A router with the fastest conversion speed may be underused in a space that has limited devices with small capacities.
Internet service providers often provide or rent out wireless routers to their clients as part of the subscription package.
This may be sufficient both in terms of speed and device coverage, especially for users in small spaces with limited gadgets.
It is, however, of vital importance to revamp your router immediately. There are signs of its obsolescence as a result of the introduction of newer electronic appliances into your space.
The following are the prime factors that need to be considered in the process of selecting a router. These can also double as the steps of how to choose a Wi-Fi router.
Speed
Internet speed is usually gauged in Megabits per second. Your Internet Service Provider or subscription account details are usually able to provide clarity as far as your internet’s least speed is concerned.
The router you select should at least be able to match up with the minimum internet speed you are provided with.
Service Provider Options
Different internet service providers offer different services depending on the demands of the target market they are trying to meet.
From small residential areas to large office spaces, there are internet service providers who specialize in each space.
It is thus important to evaluate alternatives to find out which service provider best fits what you are looking for.
Modem – Router Combination
You must find out if your modem is compatible with the router you are looking to purchase.
This applies in situations where you already have a modem and only need a new router to establish your connection. If this is not the case, you can get yourself a modem router combination even though it is more expensive to acquire.
Space
Internal architectural designs of any structure are sure to affect the installation and coverage of an internet connection.
Open space layouts have fewer impediments as opposed to rooms that have been closed out or separated by walls. One-floor buildings are also easier to connect when compared to those with multiple stories.
Beamforming is a solution that can be applied in a building with multiple mezzanines and floors so that the signal is directed to a specific device as opposed to being scattered in a particular area.
Type and Number of Devices
Single-band devices are those that require a single radio signal connection while dual-band devices are those that require a double radio signal connection.
Radios in this case are simply paths on which the internet signal travels along.
A single radio connection in a place where there are multiple band devices is sure to be easily crowded thus resulting in a major traffic slow-down.
The router size is also determined by the number of devices in a given area.
This is because each router has a specific threshold of devices it can support per time. In general, terms, the higher the number of devices, the larger the router required. The reverse is also true.
Functions
An internet connection can be used for many functions, which vary in terms of need and frequency of use.
Gaming may require a great deal of internet at the moment it is being done. However, working from home may consume more internet on an overall basis since it is done more consistently.
Conclusion
Routers are an essential part of the process of establishing a good internet connection.
Before shopping for one, make sure to first know your needs so that you can match them up to the specifications of the router you want.
See Also
How to setup Xfinity wifi router
