Zyxel which one to choose for an apartment. Why your router may not work well. What are the best parameters to choose a router for at home?

Today it is difficult to imagine your life without wireless Internet, or, as it is called in colloquial slang, “Wi-Fi” (Wi-Fi). Special routers are responsible for the possibility of its functioning. When choosing them, you should pay attention to the following parameters:

• RAM and processor. It is optimal if the model has at least 32 MB of RAM and a computer frequency of 240 MHz or more. This will allow the router to work without slowdowns and always provide sufficient access speed.
• Operating modes and connected interfaces. These characteristics determine the purpose of the router. Most devices provide for installing an access point, creating a bridge, repeater or client - these modes allow you to connect a router and make it a source of Wi-Fi signal.
• Signal frequency. In most cases, this is 2.4 GHz, but due to the widespread use of these devices in homes, almost all subchannels are occupied, which negatively affects the stability and speed. It is better to choose a dual-band model, where the second channel emits a signal at a frequency of 5 GHz.
• A security protocol that encrypts data and prevents third parties from connecting to Wi-Fi. Most devices support WPA and WPA2 - these are the most reliable protocols.
• Antenna power, which is measured in dBi. The higher this parameter is, the greater the range of action the device has. For your home, it is advisable to choose routers with a strong signal.
• Supported protocols. The most common is IPv4, which has an IP address length of 32 bits. But some models are already equipped with TCP IPv6 - the most advanced data transfer protocol.
• Availability of up-to-date software on the official website. It is not a fact that when sold, the router will have the latest firmware installed; however, the existing software may contain errors that prevent the device from operating normally.

Our rating presents some of the best Wi-Fi routers that can be bought in online stores. All models were selected taking into account the above characteristics and parameters. In addition, the selection of devices was carried out taking into account:

1. Customer reviews
2. Cost of the device (price-quality ratio)
3. Expert opinions

The best inexpensive Wi-Fi routers for home: budget up to 1,500 rubles.

4 Tenda N301

Best price
Country: China
Average price: 878 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Let's start with the most budget Wi-Fi router. The average price tag for this miniature miracle is only 890 rubles. For this money, the user receives a nice, high-quality snow-white case with two antennas with a power of 5 dBi each. It doesn’t take up much space – the case dimensions are 127x90x26 mm. But there are no slots for wall mounting - this is a minus.

The insides are not amazing. The cable speed reaches 100 Mbit/s. Connect viaLAN can be up to three devices. Wireless Internet complies with the standard WiFi 802.11 n with theoretical speeds up to 300 Mbit/s. In reality, judging by the reviews, the speed reaches 70-75 Mbit/s.

We especially note software part. First of all, I am pleased with the ease of setup - as they say, even a housewife can handle it. Among the interesting things: there is the possibility of remote administration, backup of settings, restricting access by MAC and URL, speed limits.Of course, small problems occur, but they can be easily solved by installing more recent firmware from the official website - the process will not cause difficulties even for beginners.

3 TP-LINK TL-MR3020

Budget router with 3G/4G LTE support
Country: China
Average price: RUB 1,412.
Rating (2018): 4.7

At first glance, the TL-MR3020 is an extremely simple device. Just one LAN port, USB 2.0, miniUSB for power, a couple of switches and indicators. The characteristics also lack the stars from the sky: the Wi-Fi 802.11n standard, which will be enough for tariff plans with a speed of 100 Mbit/s, but no more. But the ability to install third-party firmware and provide distribution mobile internet make this router very versatile. See what use cases users shared in their reviews:

1) A regular router for a home or apartment

2) Backup Internet source (mobile) in case the main provider is disconnected

3) Access point while hiking - the device can be powered by a simple power bank!

4) Internet in the car: connect it to the cigarette lighter, hide the router in the glove compartment, and you can share the Internet with all passengers

And this is just a small list. Installation of OpenWRT firmware, a USB hub and user curiosity allow you to use the router in a huge number of situations.

2 MikroTik hAP lite

Great software capabilities. Router OS
Country: Latvia
Average price: 1,360 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.6

The second line of the rating is occupied by a model from a little-known company called MikroTik. First of all, hAP ​​lite stands out for its unusual appearance. This is a compact blue and white box with stylish ventilation slots. But what attracts more attention is the absence of external antennas - here they are internal, in the amount of two. The power is low - only 1.5 dBi, but it will be enough for a small apartment. On the other hand, this allows you to place the device almost anywhere. It is also worth considering that the silver medalist in the rating is capable of delivering speeds of only about 150 Mbit/s.

There are also several unique features. First, use Router OS. This system has simply incredible capabilities that even much more expensive devices cannot provide to the user. Seamless transition between several access points, bridge mode, VPN, tunnels - all this and much more can be found in the router settings. Secondly, hAP ​​lite supports connection to several providers at once. The WAN port can be any of the four located on the case.

1 TP-LINK TL-WR841N

Optimal balance of cost, functionality and simplicity
Country: China
Average price: 1,290 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.8

The first place in the ranking of the best budget Wi-Fi routers for the home is occupied by TP-LINK TL-WR841N. The device can be used as an access point and simultaneously distribute a signal to 6 receivers. Among all inexpensive routers, it has the highest potential operating speed - 300 Mbit/s. The router is equipped with a modern WPA2 data encryption system, which ensures high reliability of transmitted data. The model supports PPTP, L2TP and IPSec tunnel protocols, which are the most common among most providers.

The advantages of this router in user reviews include low cost, ease of setup and a good stable signal. The latter is achieved thanks to two antennas operating in the 2.4 GHz frequency range. The transmitter power is 20 dBM, which allows the signal to “pierce” even the thick walls of an apartment. As weaknesses They note poor case material and a low-quality power adapter, which makes unnecessary sounds during operation.

The best Wi-Fi routers in the mid-price segment: budget up to 7,000 rubles.

3 ASUS RT-N66U

Popular Wi-Fi router. Speed ​​up to 900 Mbps
Country: Taiwan (China)
Average price: 6,105 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.7

High speed ASUS model RT-N66U is in third place in the ranking of the best Wi-Fi routers for the home in the middle price segment. This model is more expensive than its TOP neighbors, but its functionality fully justifies the cost. The device has as many as 3 antennas, and emits a signal in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, which can significantly improve the quality of communication and use it over large areas. The router includes 4 switch ports, so you can connect 3 devices to it and organize their operation using wired Internet.

In numerous positive reviews Buyers talk about fast operation, ease of setup and excellent synchronization with USB modems. Moreover, this model provides data transfer of up to 900 Mbit/s simultaneously, which allows it to be used to “distribute” Wi-Fi to several devices at once. If necessary, this router is capable of downloading files without using a computer. Among the disadvantages are strong heating during operation and problems with some firmware versions.

2 TP-LINK Archer C7

Best wireless speed
Country: China
Average price: 6,650 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.7

The second line of the rating is occupied by the already respected Archer C7. Externally, the model is distinguished by the presence of three antennas with a power of 5 dBi each and an impractical glossy surface. It looks good - there’s no shame in leaving the router in a visible place. The set of ports is standard for this class: power supply, a USB pair for connecting a printer or external storage and five Ethernet ports.

The router is dual-band – 2.4/5 GHz. The maximum speed “over the air”, as stated by the manufacturer, is 1750 Mbit/s. The indicator is rather theoretical, because the providers present on our market are unlikely to be able to provide such speed. This will only be useful when creating a home local network. Among the pleasant features, it is worth noting the ability to work in two bands at once, support for LTE modems, file server, guest service, firewall and much more.

1 MikroTik RB951G-2HnD

The most reliable Wi-Fi router
Country: Latvia
Average price: 4,650 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.8

In first place in the ranking of the best Wi-Fi routers of the average price category The MikroTik RB951G-2HnD model is located. This device is a strong average in terms of reliability, performance and cost. It is used as an access point and can simultaneously “distribute” wireless Internet to 5 devices. Provides a maximum speed of up to 300 Mbps. As a nice addition, the router has MIMO support, which allows it to transmit data over several independent channels at once. A bridge mode is provided to connect wired networks to wireless ones.

In reviews, buyers talk about high-quality assembly, smooth operation and wide customization options as the strengths of the model. At the same time, the router boasts 128 MB of RAM. Thanks to Telnet support, remote management of the device and its settings is possible. The transmitter power is 30 dBM, and the internal antenna amplifies 2.5 dBi, which has a positive effect on the range. The disadvantages of this model are the difficulty of playing 4G networks and incompatibility with some USB hubs.

The best Wi-Fi routers in the premium segment: budget from 8,000 rubles.

3 HUAWEI B525

LTE support
Country: China
Average price: 8650 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.7

The third line is occupied by a router with a somewhat non-standard design. B525 is designed for vertical installation. The front panel is made in black and gold colors, Wi-Fi antennas built-in The set of connectors is standard, with the exception of two SMA ports for connecting external 3G/4G LTE antennas. There is also a slot for a SIM card. Signal reception is more than reliable. In reviews, users claim that the router “sees 3 bars” where the smartphone does not find the network at all. The speeds are accordingly excellent.

You can distribute mobile or cable Internet through three gigabit LAN ports or dual-band Wi-Fi. Unfortunately, simultaneous operation at frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz is not announced. The theoretical speed of the wireless network can reach 1300 Mbps.

B525 can also be used as a home file server: connected external hard drive and you can make backups or send movies to your TV.

2 Keenetic Giga (KN-1010)

Wide range of customization and modification options
Country: Taiwan
Average price: 8,190 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Keenetic network equipment is little known to the general public, but is popular among enthusiasts. The Giga model is not the top one, but its capabilities are enough for even the most demanding users. The case is not only cute, but also functional. On the rear edge there are 4 Gigabit LAN ports, one WAN and SFP for connecting via fiber optic cable. Very few competitors can offer the latter. On the side there are USB 2.0 and USB 3.0. The distance between them is large, which allows you to freely use even bulky mobile Internet modems. There are also two physical buttons, each of which can be configured with up to three functions.

The router supports the 802.11ac standard and can operate simultaneously in two bands. The maximum theoretical speed reaches 1267 Mbit/s. Real tests showed results of about 600 Mbit/s, which is sufficient for the vast majority of users.

Thanks to the range of ports and excellent software, the router can be used in a wide variety of scenarios.

1 ASUS RT-AC88U

3167 Mbit/s
Country: Taiwan (China)
Average price: RUB 18,568.
Rating (2018): 4.8

The leader in the rating of the best Wi-Fi routers in the premium segment is the ASUS RT-AC88U model. Main feature This device is able to ensure the simultaneous operation of several dozen devices, thanks to a maximum data transfer rate of up to 3167 Mbit/s. Wide coverage and good signal level are provided by four antennas operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency ranges.

The strengths of the device in reviews from buyers note its fast operation, pleasant appearance and intuitive Web interface. In addition, the model has 512 MB of RAM, which allows it to quickly process data from different receivers. The router is equipped with one USB port version 2.0 and one version 3.0, which allows you to connect to it third party devices. The disadvantages include insufficiently developed software and an average signal level at a frequency of 5 GHz.

The best mobile (pocket) Wi-Fi routers

3 Huawei E8372

Connection via USB port. The most compact Wi-Fi router
Country: China
Average price: RUB 2,843.
Rating (2018): 4.4

Portable Huawei model E8372 takes third place in the ranking of the best mobile Wi-Fi routers. This device, with its fairly small dimensions, can provide full Internet access to any smartphone or computer. The device is powered from any USB port. With the help of Huawei E8372, you can organize effective LTE Internet in your car, apartment or house. The router operates in the 2.4 GHz band, which allows you to use its wireless network over an area of ​​up to 50 square meters. The device has built-in support for 3G and LTE, meaning access can be achieved using a SIM card.

Among the strengths of the device in reviews, users note operation without connecting to a computer (via a USB cable), reliable connection retention and lack of lag. The device has a slot for microSD memory cards and two connectors for external antennas, which can potentially significantly increase the range of the router. Among the weaknesses of this model are uninformative instructions and poor case materials.

Video review

2 Alcatel Link Zone

The most budget standalone router
Country: USA-France
Average price: RUB 3,291.
Rating (2018): 4.7

The next device is more versatile and autonomous than the previous one. Inside the compact and pleasant-to-touch case there is an 1800 mAh battery, which provides 7 hours of active Internet distribution and about 35 hours of standby time. The battery compartment also contains slots for SIM and SD (up to 32 GB) cards and a pair of connectors for connecting external antennas. I'm glad that a dead battery won't be a reason to stop surfing the Internet - just connect the included charger to the MicroUSB connector and continue using the device.

Wireless Internet standards are not the most modern - only 802.11n. In practice, users experience speeds of up to 70-80 Mbit/s. Not all providers can boast of such results even over cable! The signal level is also good: it will even penetrate a couple of solid walls. The only drawback is the ill-conceived mobile application. But the problem is solved by software, which means there is hope for a quick correction of the shortcomings.

1 TP-LINK M7350

Best functionality
Country: China
Average price: 4745 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.8

The leader of the rating is the most expensive and functional device in the category. The appearance is simple: a parallelepiped with rounded corners and a combination of matte and glossy plastic. The only detail that catches the eye is the 1.4’ TFT display, which displays information about the operator, signal level, transmission speed, etc. The screen also allows for basic setup. For more advanced settings you will have to go to the web interface. In most cases, you only need to change the name of the wireless network - the router will do the rest itself, you just need to install a SIM card.

Like the previous participant, the M7350 has removable battery. The capacity is noticeably higher – 2550 mAh. There is a connector for Micro card SDHC up to 32 GB. Thanks to support for the SMB and FTP protocols, any connected device can use files from a flash drive. This solution can be useful, for example, when traveling with the whole family - everyone can take photos and videos and upload them for public access.

The best Wi-Fi routers with built-in file storage

1 Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router HD

Router with built-in hard drive for 1 TB
Country: China
Average price: RUB 14,440.
Rating (2018): 4.8

The only representative of the final category is the device of the popular Chinese Xiaomi company. Of course, the Mi Router HD has competitors, but they are sold in single copies at exorbitant prices, and therefore we cannot recommend them for purchase.

The design of the router is consistent with other Xiaomi products - a minimalist metal body with four antennas looks harmonious in almost any interior. This is important, because such a large “box” (195x146x96mm) is difficult to hide from view. Quite powerful inside Qualcomm processor, 512 MB of RAM and, most importantly, a 1 TB hard drive. On the back cover there are 3 LAN and 1 WAN ports, as well as USB. Wireless Internet complies with the 802.11ac standard and can operate in two bands at once: 2.4 and 5 GHz, there is support for MIMO. Maximum speed “over the air” is up to 2533 Mbit/s.

Thanks to the built-in HDD, the router can be used not only for its intended purpose, but also as file storage for convenient backup from all home devices, storing movies for later playback on a TV, downloading torrents without a PC, and much more. The only drawback is that you will have to be patient and time to set everything up correctly.

Today, every family has a lot of computer equipment in their home. This includes computers, laptops and other gadgets. All of them must be connected to the World Wide Web. This can be done via a wire that comes from the provider’s router to your apartment. But then only one device will be connected to the Internet, the rest will not be able to access the network. In order to correct the situation, a Wi-Fi router is purchased, which can be used both at home and in a small company.

A router is a device that allows split the signal coming over one cable, thanks to which it will distribute the Internet to all home equipment. Which one is better and what routers consist of will be discussed below.

How to choose a Wi-Fi router

Now let's move on to the main question - how to choose the right router for an apartment, house or other premises.

Routers are classified according to different parameters. They may include one wan port that connects the router and the external Internet and an antenna for Wi-Fi distribution. Either one wan port for connecting to an external network, several lan ports for connecting home or office computers to the network via cable and Wi-Fi distribution.

The most common ones are routers withEthernet ports. Distributed everywhere. Used for connection using the RJ45 standard.

ADSLrouters connect to laptop via telephone line. Although, this type of device would be correctly called modems with a built-in routing function. The phone cable first goes to such a modem, and then from it to the computer. In this case, you will not be able to connect the Internet cable directly to a computer or other device. The RJ11 standard is used.

And also in addition to stationary routers there are mobilewireless routers. The connection occurs via a SIM card, and the built-in battery allows them to work even where there is no power supply. Portable Wi-Fi routers are convenient for laptop owners and those who are constantly on the go. On at the moment support 3g, 4g networks. The introduction of 5g is just around the corner, so support for this standard is a matter of time.

At the moment, special routers for connecting fiber optics with Wi-Fi are firmly in circulation. The data transfer speed in such devices is much higher than through a simple cable.

Data transfer rate

The data transfer speed depends on the standard used in the device. There are several types of standards:

• 802.11a– the speed of such a device will be 54 Mb/s.
• 802.11 b– 11 Mb/s.
• 802.11 g– compatible with b. 54 Mb/s.
• 802.11 n– 150 Mb/s.

Most often used in modern routers mixed standard 802.11 bgn. It allows routers and computers running different standards to automatically switch between them. This is done for the convenience of the user.

Power and range

Such routers operate at frequencies of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Of course, the router that transmits information at a frequency of 5 GHz will have a longer range. Now almost all transmitting devices are designed for the 2.4 GHz frequency. Therefore, the airwaves in high-rise buildings at this frequency are completely occupied. Routers with combined frequencies. They can operate on both 2.4 and 5 GHz.

Such dual-band routers work like regular wi-fi devices, but only on two frequencies. This means that when he sees a 5 GHz device, he will connect it to the network, in fact, like a device receiving at a 2.4 GHz frequency.

Additional Interfaces

Many routers today are equipped with additional interfaces. These include LAN and USB.

LAN is used to connect to one local network and gain access to the Internet for devices that do not have a Wi-Fi receiving antenna. Typically these include desktop computers without a Wi-Fi card.

InterfaceUSB It is intended to receive Internet from 3g, 4g modems when access via WAN cable is not possible.

Hardware component

Physically, the router consists of a motherboard on which a processor, random access memory, ROM, and controllers for managing wired and wireless networks are located. As well as USB, LAN, WAN interfaces. You should carefully consider the choice of these parameters, otherwise the device’s power may not be enough for the user’s current needs.

Software features

First of all, it is important burglary protection networks. There is a built-in firewall for this. SystemIRTV allows you to watch TV channels over the network. Many routers support torrent client. It also allows you to create an FTP server. This protocol built on a client-server system.

How more features in the gadget, the greater the load on it. Therefore, it is best to purchase one with a minimum of functions, but better network reception.

Manufacturers and prices

Among the many brands, it is worth noting those that are distinguished by their quality and are very popular:

• Routers companiesTP Link. This company produces devices with advanced functionality. It also provides its users with the opportunity to create virtual servers. Parental controls and traffic limitation are also provided. The cost varies from 1,500 to 15,000 rubles for flagships.
• D— link. Routers from this manufacturer support the IPTV protocol. In addition, there are parental controls, support for all access points, and Yandex.DNS content filtering is available. Such routers cost between 1,500 for a budget router and 12,300 rubles for a top-end router.
• ZyXel produces powerful devices for receiving and transmitting data. Supports mixed connection standard. Almost all routers from this company have USB connectors for an additional modem and VPN support. The cost of a budget router is 3,000 rubles; for a flagship, a user can pay up to 18,000 rubles.
• ASUS is famous for constantly introducing new trends in devices. Suitable not only for home use, but also for offices of small companies. The price varies from 4,000 to 15,000 rubles.

Which router to choose for your home

For use at home or in an apartment, it is recommended to choose routers from the company TP Link. The prices of such devices are not affordable for the buyer. The build quality of the materials is pleasing. It breaks quite rarely.

Asus are not inferior in popularity to TP Link. The price will be higher, but the build quality will be better. They have all modern data transmission standards. The ability to create a VPN point only raises them in the eyes of advanced users.

Microtik Suitable for those users who like to clearly define the rules for interacting with the Internet. The routers are made of high-quality plastic. The price will be more expensive than regular routers, but the cost justifies expectations. Mainly used in small and large companies, thanks to large functionality. At home they are rarely used.

Rating of the best routers

Now let's look at the best Wi-Fi routers for home, apartment and private companies, which have earned only flattering reviews from users.

Microtik Hap Lite

New model from a Latvian manufacturer. Its compact and stylish design sets it apart from other routers.

Advantages:

• Supports multiple providers.
• The antennas are hidden inside the case.
• Cheap.

Flaws:

Netgear r8500

Weight this router one and a half kilograms. Made from high quality plastic. Receives data in four streams.

Has the following dignity:

• Four external and four internal antennas.
• Smart Connect technology.
• Gigabit Internet ports.

Flaws:

Asus RT AC 5300

A powerful Wi-Fi router with a futuristic design. There are two antennas on each side.

Advantages:

• The fastest data transfer, up to 300 Megabits per second.
• Availability of LAN ports.
• Supports all Wi-Fi standards.

Flaws:

TP Link Archer C7

Operates in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. There is USB for the printer. Provides the user with speeds of up to 2 gigabits per second. At the moment, no provider provides such speed, but for a local network it’s just right.

• Supports LTE.
• High speed.
• Stylish.

Sitecom Greyhound

Supports all standards, mixed and new AC at speeds up to 6 gigabits per second.

Advantages:

• High performance.
• Convenient settings.
• High speed.

Flaws:

TP Link TL WR841N

Budget Wi-Fi router. Cost up to 1500 rubles. Manufacturer China.

Advantages:

• Low cost.
• Easy setup.
• Good reception and distribution.

Flaws:

Zyxel Keenetic Ultra II

A simple and cheap router from the middle class. Supports VPN, bridge mode, LTE modem.

Advantages:

• Ability to save information to a connected external storage device.
• Supports 5 GHz frequency.

Flaws:

Apple Time capsule 2tb me 177

This is a device with a built-in two terabyte hard drive. Works in two ranges. Can be used as a file server. Manufacturer Taiwan.

Advantages:

• Built-in storage.
• Unusual design.
• Data transmission stability.

Flaws:

Synology RT 2600AC

More suitable for system administrators of medium offices. It has enhanced safety feature. Mechanism hardware acceleration is also present. Works in two ranges.

Advantages:

• Traffic filtering.
• Powerful processor.
• Simple controls.

Flaws:

Netgear orbi rbk 50

It has an unusual body type. Provides stable connection over long distances. The housing contains six internal antennas.

Advantages:

• Large range of action.
• Stability of information transmission.

Flaws:

To make your choice easier, we suggest comparing the main characteristics of the devices:

Today, the Internet is available in almost every second apartment in our country. The Internet is developing at a tremendous pace, just as its transmission technologies are developing. If at the end of the nineties and until the mid-2000s Internet speed was measured in kilobytes, at the end of the 2000s - in megabits, now there is a transition in calculating Internet speed into gigabytes! If previously access to the Internet was carried out only via wires, now data transfer can also occur wirelessly.
Next we will consider the following questions:

Why do you need a Wi-Fi router?

How to choose a Wi-Fi router

• 802.11 a – transmits data at speeds up to 54 Mbit/s;


• 802.11 b – transmits data at speeds up to 11 Mbit/s;


• 802.11 g – transmits data at speeds up to 54 Mbit/s;


• 802.11 n – transmits data at speeds up to 600 Mbit/s;


• 802.11 ac – data transfer reaches speeds of over 1 Gbit/sec.

Which Wi-Fi router to choose

Which budget router to choose?

How to choose a Wi-Fi router for your home

Which router is the best?