Those who prefer the best router for Google Fiber have many options. You need a product that meets your requirements and has the right features. It’s important to know what to look for when buying the best Google-compatible router. We also discuss five of the best routers that work well with the Google Fiber network.
Buyer’s Guide
It’s important to use the right Google Fiber network if that is your internet service. We are going to talk about what Google Fiber internet is and what to consider for your router.
What’s Google Fiber?
This is the fiber-optic-based broadband internet service, which debuted in 2010. It delivers high-speed connectivity to people in select cities in the US. It’s outstanding because of the high-speed internet connection options offered. They can run up to 1,000 Mbps, and the pricing scheme is straightforward.
Those with the service need to use Google-compatible routers.
Is a Router Necessary with Google Fiber Internet?
Once you’ve got the fiber-optic cable in the house, Google gives you two pieces of hardware. First, you have a Fiber Jack, which is the optical network terminal. It attaches to a wall plate and gets mounted to the interior wall of your home. This Fiber Jack has power, status LEDs, and ethernet port options. It can convert the fiber-optic light signals to gigabit ethernet signals. Then, it sends those to the Network Box using an ethernet cable.
The Network Box is the router and helps you share your connection with the entire household. You don’t have to buy a router with your Google Fiber service, but it’s recommended to use one.
Most ISPs utilize routers or router/modem combos that are made cheaply and useful for basic setup only. It works with a single computer and your smartphone. Since Google Fiber is a high-speed WiFi system, you need to get the most out of it with the best routers out there.
Why Use a Router with Google Fiber
You can plug the router right into the network box and use it. It works like any other broadband internet services. However, you can’t get rid of the network box because you’re using your own wireless router.
Signal Range
If you’ve got a second router, you can cover a larger area within your home. It might help to eliminate dead spots and improve poor signal quality. In a sense, it extends your Google WiFi service to the whole house.
More Features
With a router, you’ve got more control over the Google Wifi network. This includes Mu-Mimo, Beamforming, and parental controls. Some routers also allow you to install third-party software instead of official firmware to give more control. This is more advanced, and not everyone is going to need it.
Can You Use a Different Router with Google Fiber?
Yes, it is possible. If you’ve already got a router that’s wireless, make sure it’s plugged into the network box, and you’re good to go.
Can You Replace Your Google Fiber Network Box?
It’s not recommended, but advanced users can do so. The company can’t support the process for individual users. However, small business customers can replace their network box without a problem.
Reviews
Google WiFi
If you want to use the best router for Google Fiber, then you should consider Google WiFi. It is affordable, has a stable performance, is fast, and has excellent range. Plus, it’s easy to get set up and gain access to the WiFi system.
Google is a top brand, and Google WiFi features everything you could need. If you are lucky enough to have Google Fiber, this is a top mesh WiFi system.
These system options have the main router and one or multiple access points (satellites). They work together to cover the whole house with wi-fi. This results in the users having a fast, sage, and strong system and connection.
The kit comes in three-unit packs with two satellites and one router. It’s cheaper than other options and offers a discreet and sleek design. It covers up to 1,500 square feet. Though it is only a dual-band gigabit router, there aren’t any issues with it. There are multiple gigabit ethernet ports. That way, you get multi-port action whenever you may need it most.
Pros:
- Simple setup
- Great design
Cons:
- Low AC rating
- Limited hardware control
Ubiquiti EdgeRouter Lite
The Edgerouter is designed primarily for advanced network users. It is a compact and fanless product, but it delivers powerful security, routing, and management features that you need to effectively run the home network. We like that you can replace the Network Box and use your own router with this product. Remember, Google doesn’t recommend that you replace the Network Box.
Everyone likes the EdgeRouter, and it might be the best choice because of the many features. Stay connected with the multi-port options and get speeds that you crave.
Google Fiber may not be able to help if you choose to replace your network box with this product. However, it is wireless and ensures that you can use wi-fi with this router instead of the Fiber products.
Pros:
- High performance
- Easily configured
Cons:
- Not plug-and-play
- Drops considerably when enabling QoS
Mikrotik Routerboard RB2011
Those who like Google Fiber but don’t want to deal with the Network Box may like the Mikrotik Routerboard. With it, you can replace the Network Box and use your own router for Google.
The price isn’t too bad, and it’s a multi-port series. We like that this router has many benefits and ways to customize it in the system. Your home may be connected better now than ever before.
Plus, you can see high speeds, and it’s easy to set up and access. Regardless of the devices you want to pair with it, you can get wi-fi on your device instantly.
Other features can include the firewall, hotspot, VPN, MPLS, load balancing, real-time configurations, and much more.
Pros:
- Sturdy design
- Many features
Cons:
- Not suitable for beginners
- Can be hard to manage
Netgear Nighthawk AC1750 (R6700)
Those who crave the best router that’s wireless are sure to appreciate the Nighthawk. It’s easy to set up and gain access to the internet and works for home use. Whether you’re video streaming, web surfing, or online gaming, this dual-band gigabit router may have everything you need.
There are fast speeds on all of your devices. Plus, you can use it with the Network box and Google Fiber. If that weren’t enough, you get a combined speed of 1.75 Gbps and Beamforming for a better signal. Circle by Disney is available through it, but you must pay for it separately. If you’re hoping to manage your child’s online time, this is a great feature!
Pros:
- Works with Google Assistant and Alexa
- Many features for a great price
Cons:
- To get Circle by Disney, you must pay separate fees
TP-Link Archer C2300
Those who want something better, such as the newer MU-MIMO technology, beamforming, and link aggregation, are sure to like the TP-Link Archer. You’re going to get a better quality of service from your Fiber service. We think this could be the best product out there, and the box is easy to set up.
Though it isn’t plug-and-play right from the box, this dual-band gigabit router may be set to your specific standards. All of your devices can now be connected in your home. Plus, it contains all the hardware you need to get the speeds you want.
You can use it with the Network Box from Google Fiber, making this one of the best routers out there.
Pros:
- Two-year warranty
- Great performance
- Inexpensive
- Built-in antivirus protection
- Link aggregation for wired speeds
Cons:
- Runs hot
Conclusion
One thing you’ve got to do is make sure you’ve got great connectivity. When you are focused on buying a router that’s wireless, there are many devices out there. However, one came in better than the rest. We feel that the EdgeRouter could be the right choice for your home.
If you’re using the Google wifi system with Google Fiber, you are a lucky person. Most cities don’t offer this, but you’ve got it. Though you may choose to upgrade the service with more features, you don’t have to because the Google router can be used separately.
Though you get all the tools you need for the right connection, you don’t have to just use the google router. You can pair it with another one to give better coverage throughout the house.
If you don’t prefer to use what comes with the service, then the EdgeRouter is the right choice. It allows you to utilize it separately and get rid of the network box. Still, you aren’t likely to get assistance from Google. Therefore, you have to be tech-savvy to get all the benefits. Though there might be some online tutorials out there, it’s often confusing to set things up yourself.
