Wi-Fi router (router): what it is, types, how to choose

A router is an electronic gadget that receives an internet signal through a wire. The router then distributes it to several electronic devices. It can transmit the signal to a computer, TV, smart home system. Through the Wi-Fi module, the router broadcasts the Internet to wireless devices: a tablet, smartphone or laptop. It creates a local network. Thanks to this, you can share files, play games and access the Internet from several devices.

Types of Wi-Fi routers

Wi-Fi routers come in these types:

• Routers that receive internet signal through a phone cable with an RJ-11 connector. These are ADSL routers, already an outdated model. They have low bandwidth.
• Wi-Fi routers that work with Ethernet technology. They are the most widely used.
• 3G and 4G routers work on radio signal. They utilize packet data transmission. They work well where there is quality coverage of the mobile network operator.
• Wi-Fi routers that connect to PON networks via a cable run into the building. These routers have the peculiarity that it is easy to intercept data from them.
• Universal Wi-Fi routers that use several technologies at the same time. They have additional ports, communication modules.

How to choose a Wi-Fi router

Take into account such parameters:

• Where the antenna of the router is located. If it is located inside the case, the signal radius will be small. The external antenna gives a wider coverage.
• The number of antennas in the router. If two antennas are installed, the signal will be stronger.
• The Wi-Fi standard is a measure of the speed per second. Only routers with two or more antennas can provide high speed.
• The router's equipment. It is important to choose a router according to the amount of equipment that will be connected to it. The load should correspond to the power of the processor, the amount of RAM.
• Range of operation of the router. If you need high data transfer speeds of up to 1000 Mbit per second and higher, you will need a Wi-Fi standard of 5 GHz. However, in this mode, the signal will have a lower ability to penetrate obstacles and a smaller coverage radius. The most common Wi-Fi band in 2.4GHz has the advantages of a wide range, good penetration through walls. However, this band gives a slower data transfer rate.
• Wired or wireless connection of the router. It is good if the router can be connected through an internet cable. This gives a higher data transfer rate than through Wi-Fi. If you need to use the router in different conditions, it is important that it is universal: it can connect to the Internet through the WAN port, via cable, and via 3G or 4G network. It is also good if there is a built-in modem and support for USB modems.
• The number of LAN ports on the router. If you need to connect several computers and other devices via cable, it is important that there are enough of these connectors.

Choosing a router, it is important to read reviews on the Internet about the company-manufacturer. Also find out the opinion of users about specific models of Wi-Fi routers. This will help to determine how they work in practice.