Buying Guide for the Best Linksys Routers
Choosing the right Linksys router involves understanding your specific needs and matching them with the router's features. Routers come with various specifications that can impact your internet speed, coverage, and overall network performance. By focusing on key specifications, you can ensure that you select a router that fits your home or office requirements perfectly.Wi-Fi StandardsWi-Fi standards determine the speed and range of your wireless network. The most common standards are 802.11n, 802.11ac, and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). 802.11n is older and slower, suitable for basic internet use. 802.11ac offers faster speeds and better range, ideal for streaming and gaming. 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) is the latest, providing the highest speeds, improved performance in crowded areas, and better battery life for connected devices. Choose a standard based on your internet usage and the number of devices you plan to connect.
Dual-Band vs. Tri-BandRouters can operate on two frequency bands (dual-band) or three (tri-band). Dual-band routers use 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, which helps reduce interference and improve performance. Tri-band routers add an additional 5 GHz band, which can further reduce congestion and improve speeds for multiple devices. If you have many devices or do a lot of high-bandwidth activities like streaming and gaming, a tri-band router may be beneficial. For general use, a dual-band router is usually sufficient.
Speed RatingsRouter speed ratings, often listed in Mbps (megabits per second), indicate the maximum data transfer rate. Higher speeds mean faster internet, but the actual speed you experience will depend on your internet service plan. For basic browsing and email, lower speeds (up to 300 Mbps) are adequate. For streaming HD videos, gaming, or smart home devices, look for speeds of 600 Mbps or higher. Match the router speed with your internet plan to ensure optimal performance.
Coverage AreaThe coverage area of a router determines how far the Wi-Fi signal can reach. Larger homes or offices will need routers with greater coverage. Coverage is often measured in square feet. For small apartments or single rooms, a router with up to 1,500 square feet coverage is sufficient. Medium-sized homes may need up to 3,000 square feet, while large homes or offices may require more than 3,000 square feet. Consider the size of your space and any potential obstacles like walls or floors that could affect signal strength.
Number of PortsRouters come with various numbers of Ethernet ports for wired connections. More ports allow you to connect more devices directly to the router, which can provide faster and more stable connections compared to Wi-Fi. If you have multiple devices like computers, gaming consoles, or smart TVs that you want to connect via Ethernet, look for a router with at least four ports. For fewer wired devices, two ports may be sufficient.
Security FeaturesSecurity features protect your network from unauthorized access and cyber threats. Look for routers with WPA3 encryption, which is the latest and most secure Wi-Fi encryption standard. Additional features like guest networks, firewalls, and automatic firmware updates can enhance security. If you handle sensitive information or have many connected devices, prioritize routers with robust security features to keep your network safe.
MU-MIMO TechnologyMU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technology allows a router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, rather than one at a time. This improves network efficiency and speeds, especially in households with many devices. If you have a busy network with multiple users streaming, gaming, or working from home, a router with MU-MIMO can provide a smoother experience. For fewer devices, this feature may be less critical.