Your router is the core of your home or workplace network; it ensures a lag-free internet experience and manages data flow across too many Wi-Fi-connected devices. With the rise in popularity of online learning and remote work, maintaining a fast, secure, and dependable network infrastructure is critical. Investing in a powerful router may provide several benefits, including improved productivity, heightened cybersecurity, and fewer operational disruptions.
On the other hand, how can one choose when to welcome a new router and buy a new one? Various factors beyond its age may influence a router's ability to meet your digital needs. To help you make an informed decision and ensure that your home network is as strong and reliable as possible, we will identify the signs that indicate it’s time to update your router.

Signs Its Time to Upgrade Your Router

•    Slow Speeds 

One of the most obvious signs you need a new router is persistently slow internet speeds. If your connection is sluggish despite having a high-speed internet plan, the culprit might be your aging router. Over time, routers can become less efficient and struggle to keep up with the demands of modern devices.

•    Your Connection Keeps Dropping
Your router may be struggling to maintain a stable connection if it frequently disconnects. This could be due to outdated firmware, worn-out hardware, or the router's inability to handle the number of devices or the amount of data being transmitted. An unreliable connection can disrupt work, streaming, gaming, and other online activities. If you find your router frequently dropping the connection, it might be time to consider a more capable and reliable upgrade. Knowing that your network issues can be resolved with a simple upgrade can bring relief.

•    Poor Coverage
If you have dead zones in your home where the WiFi signal is weak or nonexistent, it might be time for a new router. Older routers often have limited range, and as your home network grows, they may be unable to effectively cover every corner of your house. Modern routers have better range and signal strength to ensure more comprehensive coverage.

•    Outdated Technology
Technology evolves rapidly, and routers are no exception. If your router is over a few years old, it might not support the latest WiFi standards like WiFi 6 (802.11ax). Upgrading to a newer model can provide faster speeds, better range, and overall improved performance.  

•    Limited Device Support
As smart home devices become more common, it's important to have a router that can handle multiple connections smoothly. If your current router has trouble supporting your devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and smart home gadgets, it may be time to upgrade to a more powerful and modern router.

•    Old Firmware
Regular firmware updates are essential for routers to maintain security and performance. If your router's manufacturer no longer provides updates, your device could be vulnerable to security threats and lack the latest performance improvements. A new router with up-to-date firmware support can greatly enhance your network's security and reliability.

•    Security Vulnerabilities
Your network is vulnerable to attacks due to outdated software and insufficient encryption. Updating to a router with strong security features, automatic updates, and configurable settings will help protect sensitive data.

•    Compatibility Issues
Issues such as the ones listed above might lead to compatibility concerns. While a router's primary purpose is exceptional speed, sluggish performance occasionally points to a compatibility problem between your router and other networked devices.

How to choose the right router? 

The correct router is essential for ensuring a robust and efficient home network. It is important to consider various factors when upgrading to find a router that best suits your needs. The many options available can be overwhelming, but focusing on a few critical aspects can help streamline your decision.

•    Wi-Fi standards: For quicker speeds and better multi-device handling, look for routers that support the most recent Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6.
•    Coverage area: Consider your space's dimensions. Larger residences would need mesh systems or routers with a longer range for consistent service.
•    Speed requirements: Align your internet consumption with the router's speed possibilities. Choose faster speeds if you stream heavily, play games, or use several devices.
•    Security features: To shield your network from online attacks, ensure the router has strong security capabilities.
•    Band count: By lowering interference, dual-band or tri-band routers can offer a more dependable connection.
•    User-friendly interface: Look for a router with an intuitive interface to make managing your network settings and parental controls easier.

Understanding Different Types of Internet Routers

Choosing the right router depends on your internet needs and home layout. Here’s a breakdown of the key types:

Wireless Bands

•    Single-band
These routers exclusively operate on a single 2.4 GHz band, leaving them vulnerable to interference from other devices. They are best suited for basic internet use in small households with only a few devices.

•    Dual-band
This router operates on dual bands at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band provides a wider coverage area with slightly slower speeds. On the other hand, the 5 GHz band offers faster speeds but over a shorter range. These routers are ideal for households performing various activities, including regular browsing and high-bandwidth tasks such as streaming or gaming.

•    Tri-band
These routers provide a third 5 GHz band, giving high-performance devices their dedicated bandwidth and reducing congestion on the other bands. They are perfect for homes with lots of users and heavy internet use.

Wireless Standards

•    Wireless AC (Wi-Fi 5)
This is a standard option that provides fast speeds that are suitable for most users.

•    Wireless AX (Wi-Fi 6)
This is the most recent standard, providing faster speeds, improved efficiency, and better management of multiple devices.

Mesh vs. Traditional Routers

•    Traditional Routers

These standalone routers are excellent for smaller houses and have decent coverage. Their signal strength, however, might not be as strong in larger residences or if there are obstructions.

•    Mesh Routers

A main router and satellite node system create Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. This setup is suitable for larger homes or those with varying signal dispersion.

Installing and Configuring a New Internet Router

Follow these tips for installation and configuration processes without difficulty:

Placement and Setup Tips

Position the internet router in the center, away from obstacles and sources of electrical interference. If necessary, use stands or wall mounts. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for power cycling, resetting to defaults, and ensuring all connections are correctly set up.

Security Best Practices

•    Put safety measures in place right away after installation:

•    Install the most recent versions of the program.

•    Turn on WPA3 encryption.

•    Establish secure admin credentials.

•    Establish guest networks that separate guests.

•    Install antivirus software on network-connected PCs.

Network Optimization

•    Improve performance by adjusting pertinent parameters:

•    Decrease broadcast ranges wisely

•    Plan to restart routines to empty the cache.

•    MAC addresses should be filtered to prevent unauthorized invasions.

•    Set QoS rules to prioritize mission-critical devices.

•    Investing in the Future of Your Network Architecture

Plan ahead for the digital environment of tomorrow by taking into consideration:

•    Scalability and Flexibility

Remember to select expandable routers capable of accommodating evolving technological landscapes. Plan for growth patterns and invest in adaptable equipment that can adjust to changing conditions.

•    Upgrading Strategies

Use progressive upgrading strategies and gradually shift to cutting-edge technology rather than all at once. Plan for gradual transitions to protect legacy investments and reduce the risk of sudden shifts.

•    Monitoring and Maintenance

It's important to schedule regular inspections to maintain peak performance and promptly address any issues. Equipping the IT staff with the necessary diagnostic tools will help speed up identifying and fixing errors.

Where to find the best WIFI routers?

Still struggling to find the right router to improve your WiFi connectivity? Look no further! ETechBuy.com offers extensive range of latest routers and other network accessories in top brands to facilitate your network requirements. 

For further queries, you can reach out to us through live chat, call at (888) 719-5848, or email us at support@etechbuy.com

FAQs:

How to change WiFi password?

Access your router's settings page via its IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) in a web browser.
Login with your router's username and password (check router manual or sticker if unsure).
Find the Wireless Security or Wi-Fi Settings section.
Change the password field to your new strong password.
Save or Apply the changes. (Devices will need to be reconnected with the new password).

My internet seems slow, is it my router?

 It could be! Even with a high-speed plan, slow download speeds can indicate an outdated router bottlenecking your connection.

Are there advantages to a new router besides speed?

Absolutely! Newer routers offer features like parental controls, guest network access, and mesh networking for a more powerful and secure Wi-Fi experience.