Discover How to Choose Router for Your Home
What’s the difference between a wired and a wireless router? Why is speeding not the most important parameter when choosing? Which frequency is better: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz? What is Speed Standard? We will answer these and other questions in our article. Keep reading.
Main types of routers
A router is a device that serves to create a wireless or wired network with Internet access. It is used to build local area networks at home, office, cottage, etc. Routers vary in speed, operating frequency, wireless standards, signal strength, and other advanced features.
According to the method of organizing communication, they are divided into the following types:
Wired – in such routers, the connection to the Internet provider is via a cable through the WAN port. Then the router “distributes” the network via Wi-Fi or via cables that are connected via LAN ports. The wired connection is more reliable and stable but requires laborious installation.
Wireless – such equipment operates on mobile Internet traffic and connects to the network via a SIM card. If the router does not have a special slot (built-in modem) for it, then you will need a USB modem. The main advantage of such equipment is that it is possible to organize a home network in any geographic location if it is included in the coverage area of a mobile operator.
The ideal speed
Maximum wireless speed is the ideal summation of the speed across all access channels. In reality, such a speed is unattainable, because the signal is influenced by various factors: physical obstacles (walls, floor slabs), the location of the router, the number of connected gadgets, etc.
The maximum speed of mass-produced routers ranges from 150 to 6000 Mbps. Of course, the higher the speed, the faster the Internet works, but choosing a router solely by speed is a rash decision because the real speed can be several times lower than the declared one. For this reason, it is important to take a closer look at other parameters that directly affect the speed, as well as clarify what kind of “megabit overclocking” the provider can provide.
2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz Communication frequency
The first thing to start with when choosing the “ideal” equipment is the frequency of operation. There can be three options here: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or a combination of both.
If the number of networks is not more than five, then you can install a 2.4 GHz router. Otherwise, you need to look for a faster option: increase the frequency to 5 GHz or take the equipment that can operate simultaneously at two frequencies.
The most rational solution is to buy a router that supports the dual-frequency operation. With the simultaneous setting of two channels on an advanced gadget, it will be possible to select a transmission line.
What else to consider when getting a proper router?
Explore general information. A router is needed to organize a wired or wireless connection to the Internet. By type, routers are divided into wired and wireless. The former provide signal stability. The latter allows you to organize a network at any geographic point, provided that it is included in the coverage area.
Think about ports. LAN ports are needed for TV and wired Internet. USB allows you to connect a modem, external drives, and a printer for general use.
Understand the main characteristics. These include speed, frequency of operation, signal range. Speed is an ideal concept, so it is rash to choose a router based on this parameter alone. It is more important to decide on the operating frequency (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or both) and only after that select the required speed standard, the regulation of which is frequency and speed. The transmission distance is affected by the location of the router, signal strength, and the type and number of antennas.
To find the variety of routers to satisfy all your needs visit the Currys website.
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