Picking a wireless router is not an easy task, especially if you are not tech savvy. There are many things to take into consideration when buying a router. Compatibility with your current hardware, whether you need wireless G or N, how saturated your area is with Wi-Fi signals, and your budget are all things that need to be taken into consideration before purchasing. Here is a list of the best routers currently available.
Netgear WNDR3800-N600 – $139.99
The Netgear WNDR3800-N600 is just about the perfect wireless router for home use thanks to it being a dual-band router (2.4GHz and 5GHz). What does this mean? If you live in an area that is saturated with Wi-Fi signals, your own signal might not be very strong, however this router has the ability to change the frequency it operates on so that you can broadcast your signal on less populated frequencies for a stronger signal.
The WNDR3800 is a wireless N router and it is backwards compatible with all other wireless standards. The Netgear has a data transfer rate of 300Mbps, so you will have not problems streaming movies across your network.
The WNDR3800 also has a USB port on the back so that you can attach a thumb drive or external hard drive and access the files on them across your network. WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, and WEP security features will keep your network safe from hackers and unauthorized users.
This is an ideal router for home use, especially if you live in an area with a lot of Wi-Fi activity.
Netgear WNR2000-N300 – $49.99
If you are shopping on a budget but need a wireless N router that is safe and reliable, the WNR2000-N300 from Netgear is the perfect choice for you.
I own the N2000-N300 and it is incredibly easy to setup, and it is capable of sending your signal over a long range, which makes it perfect if you need to expand the reach of your wireless network, whether in a home or office setting. The 300Mbps data transfer rate will ensure that you have the ability to send and receive files over your network, and play online video games at a fast pace with little fear of lag.
This router has multiple security features including double firewall (NAT + SPI) capabilities, denial-of-service (DoS) prevention, and 64 bit and 128-bit WEP protection. While the WNR2000 only operates on the 2.4GHz frequency, it is powerful enough to keep your signal strong even in moderately busy Wi-Fi areas, which makes it perfect for house or apartment settings.
Asus RT-N56U – $124.99
If you live in house, or have an office that suffers with dead zones and drop spots then the Asus RT-N56U could be the answer to your prayers.
The RT-N56U uses a sophisticated Ai Radar over dual-bands which will allow you to focus the Wi-Fi signal patterns so that you can eliminate the dead spots in your home or office.
As with most wireless N routers, this Asus offering is capable of speeds up to 300Mbps. The RT-N56U has two built in USB ports so that you can attach and share portable hard drives and printers with every user on the network, even when your computer is turned off.
The built in security features on the Asus RT-N56U include WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK and WPA-Enterprise. These features will keep your network safe and secure. This router is perfect for a busy office, or for a home owner who wants more out of their wireless network
