What is a WiFi Router?

Simply put, a WiFi router is an electronic device that sends data received from an Internet cable to other devices. It also acts as a wireless access point from which it shares data through the use of radio signals. The router converts the data stream delivered by your Internet connection into radio signals. These signals are received by WiFi-capable devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets.

WiFi routers are everywhere, and it’s hard to imagine the world without them. Despite their widespread use; however, most people have complained about the performance of their wireless routers at one point or another.

Indeed, even the best wireless router can have trouble covering an entire house or office with a reliable WiFi signal. That’s why it’s essential to know how to get the most out of a WiFi router and have the right tools for the job.

Selecting the Best Wi-Fi Router

If you believe that all routers are the same, you’re wrong. There are many good reasons why you should consider leaving the router you got from your internet service provider behind and buying a new, better one instead.

It used to be that internet routers did almost nothing else besides connecting a single computer to the internet. Modern internet routers are different. They provide wireless internet access to smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and internet-connected home appliances. They are highly secure, feature USB ports for file sharing, and support all the latest wireless standards, such as 802.11ac, which offers about 3x the bandwidth of the older 802.11n standard.

Most modern WiFi routers already support the newest version of WiFi standards, which is 802.11ax a.k.a. WiFi-6, it is an upgrade over the previous standard, which is 802.11ac (WiFi-5).

These routers broadcast on two frequencies simultaneously. Such routers are called dual-band routers, and they support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Why’s that important? Because the 2.4 GHz band tends to be very cluttered. In some residential areas or apartment blocks, dozens of wireless routers may broadcast a wireless signal on the same channel, making it difficult for electronic devices to collect the right data packets amidst all the noise.

Routers also offer different ranges. You may have seen routers that look like scary cyber-spiders, with antennas protruding in all directions. You better believe that routers like this have a better range than much smaller routers with built-in antennas.

Older routers that support only the 802.11n standard can accommodate only 30 concurrent clients. Newer, 802.11ac routers support almost 100 simultaneous connections, making them much more suitable for crowded office spaces and public-facing businesses.

Software updates are vital when it comes to wireless routers. Cyber attackers release over 390,000 new malicious programs every day, and old, unpatched routers are one of their prime targets. Router manufacturers have to make the same kind of business decisions as all other companies, and they can’t afford to support old products indefinitely.

That router your internet service provider gave you 5 years ago could be vulnerable to a wide range of dangerous cyber-attacks, many of which could cost you your privacy or a bank account. Why risk so much when you can purchase a new router and stay safe?

Before you purchase a new router, always make sure to check wireless router reviews to see what others have to say about it. There’s only so much you can learn about a product from specifications and product descriptions. Reliability and real-world performance take some time to evaluate.

Don’t Blame Your WiFi Router

Before you say “my WiFi router is no good,” consider what else could be affecting the quality of your WiFi signal and your internet speeds.

First of all, double-check that your wireless network is encrypted. Sometimes a router loses power for a long time and restores to factory defaults. This can happen without your knowledge, leaving your WiFi network accessible to anyone. It goes without saying that your internet speeds will be abysmal when the whole neighborhood is leeching off you.

These days, the WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) is recommended as a much safer alternative to the older and much less secure WEP.

Second, make sure that your internet service provider is delivering the advertised download and upload speeds. Just because your contract says that you should be getting 20 Mbps download speeds, it doesn’t mean that you actually are.

Tips for Setting Up a WiFi Router

Here are some tips that can help you set up a wireless router. Based on the area you are intending to cover with your WiFi signal, you may only need one router to do the job. Properly setting up the router is essential in obtaining maximum performance from the equipment.

Properly locate your router — Placing your router in a location that is free from physical obstructions is key to getting the best signal from your router. Place it as high as you can and keep it away from other sources that may produce wireless interference, such as microwaves and cordless phones.

Secure your network — Make sure you access your router’s administration panel and change the device’s default password. Set your router to the highest degree of security with WPA2 as a minimum to protect your network and users.

Keep your firmware up to date — To ensure your device is operating optimally you should take advantage of firmware upgrades offered by your router’s manufacturer. We recommend you configure the router to automatically install any available firmware upgrades.

Minimize the distance between the router and connected devices — If you find that your wireless devices are experiencing issues with the WiFi signal you may have to move them closer to the router in order to achieve the performance you desire. If this becomes a major problem, you may be a candidate for a mesh network installation.

What else can your router do?

Many newer internet routers are going above and beyond basic Wi-fi functions to allow users more options and controls for their home network. Here are a few common router extras to look for on your router:

• Block websites
• Schedule downtime for a digital detox
• Set parental controls
• Set up a guest network

How to reset your router

Why would you need to reset your router in the first place? Well, your router has memory and local storage that can take up space on the device. When you reset the router, these temporary files are removed, allowing it to resume its normal functioning.

You won’t need to reset your router often, but if you do, find the Reset button on the router, and hold it down with the end of a paperclip for about 20 seconds.

What to do if your router is not working

Having issues with your router? You’re not alone. Modem and router issues are among the most common internet problems.

First, try to reboot your router. Do this by unplugging it from the modem, waiting 20 seconds, and then plugging it back in. If you have a modem and router built together, also called a gateway, then unplug that device instead.

If your router is still giving you trouble, position it in an area of your home where it is not blocked by walls or doors. If you are using Wi-Fi, try using your device in the same room as the router.

How to protect your router

Protecting your internet router will make your Wi-Fi network more secure and add to the longevity of your router. Make sure to take these simple precautions for your home’s Wi-Fi network.

What are some tips to protect my router’s security?

Router security is important because they are an attractive target for hackers since they connect to all your Wi-Fi devices. Here are the top two tips to protect your router from being compromised:

• Change the router’s default network name
• Create a strong password

How to know if your router has been hacked

If you notice anything unusual, such as your router login not working or software installations on your devices that you didn’t authorize, your router might be compromised.

What kind of router do I need?

There are a few key factors to consider before you buy an internet router. Knowing the answer to these questions will help you identify the type of router that will work best in your home:

• How big is your home?
• Will you need Wi-Fi throughout the home, or in one central location?
• How many people and/or devices will be connected at once?
• What types of activities, such as web browsing, gaming or streaming, will the Wi-Fi router need to support?

Buying a router

There are many router options on the market, but don’t let that overwhelm you. Read on to find the best internet router for you.

What router should I buy?

When it comes to buying a router for your home, these are some popular features you might want to look for:

• Dual-band: transmits two wireless signals for better performance
• USB port: allows you to connect external storage or wireless printers
• Compatible app: use the app to set up your router, run a speed test and control your Wi-Fi network from anywhere
• Mesh network: uses several Wi-Fi access points in your home to boost connectivity in larger homes

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