Yes, a router with better capabilities than your current one can improve your Wi-Fi. When you sign up with your internet service provider, you are usually given a router to supply you with Wi-Fi. This router typically performs the job adequately; however, not all routers are created equally, and upgrading your router could have some profound benefits on your connection.
Thus, if you are considering upgrading your Wi-Fi but do not know where to even begin, getting a new router could be a good start. Different router models all have different specs and features that can make a world of difference to your internet connection’s performance.
Your Internet Speed and Router Speed
It is important to note that regardless of the new router you purchase, your internet service provider’s speed to your home does not change. The speed of your internet and the speeds that your router is capable of are two different things entirely.
New routers may have better coverage than your current one, meaning that you are no longer going to experience any dead spots in your home. Dead spots refer to areas where your router does not reach, meaning that you are unable to do even the most basic things, such as send a text or load a picture. By eliminating these dead spots, your Wi-Fi connection becomes more stable and even faster on the same broadband package.
You can check this by running an internet speed test on any device that is connected to your router. If you find that there is a major difference in the speed test results and the speed that your service provider claims to provide, it may be time to consider upgrading your router.
Improved Range
When shopping for a new router, you may find that many of the more premium models incorporate some antennas into their design. It is normal to think that they are just for show; however, this observation would be incorrect. These antennas are able to increase the strength and range of the Wi-Fi signal. They make it much easier for your devices to connect to the router.
By checking the range and output of the router, you can determine the type of speed that the router is able to provide. Checking reviews of the router online can also be a great way to determine whether the router is worth the purchase or not.
The number of antennas on the router can also make a big difference t how effective the router is. The more routers, the better the signal strength of your Wi-Fi, although this is just one of the factors that improve your internet speed.
Bandwidth Capability
Routers are all manufactured differently, with some being capable of feats that others cannot even dream of. With this in mind, dual-band routers that function at frequencies of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz are standard in this day and age. This gives your connection more channels to travel along, meaning they are less likely to interfere with one another. In doing so, the router avoids providing you with slow or unstable connections.
2.4 GHz channels are slower than 5 GHz channels and are also more susceptible to interference. Although you may see this as a downside, these frequencies are able to travel much longer distances and are even able to pass through solid objects such as walls. Dual-band routers are intelligent and manage the channels by themselves, ensuring that you are always connected to the best channel no matter where you are in your home.
With technology advancing at such a rapid pace, tri-band routers are making their way into the market. These routers have an added frequency channel that runs at the wavelength of 5.8 GHz. This new type of router makes a significant jump when compared to a dual-band router, and if you have a lot of devices connected to your router, then you may want to consider one of these.
Router Models
Just like gaming consoles, routers are constantly being upgraded, with new components and features being added. The latest generation of routers is referred to as Wi-Fi 6 routers.
Each new generation of routers incorporates new technology that allows them to transmit data more reliably, more quickly, and with less interference. These new routers are also capable of supporting more devices than previous generations without the downside of decreased connection speed.
Upgrading to a Wi-Fi 6 router is most certainly going to improve your coverage and speed. If this appeals to you, then you may want to consider upgrading from the standard router you currently have to a top of the range model.
The Bottom Line
As you may have noticed already, a good router can make a huge difference to your Wi-Fi. From quicker speeds and more reliable connections, a good router is something you should invest in, especially if you are constantly using the internet, whether it’s for work or recreational purposes.
