Top routers for the office

Not everyone needs high speeds and maximum connections. For many users, especially the older generation, the cost of the device comes out on top. So here are three reliable and inexpensive routers that provide a wireless network for online communication and surfing.

Top 10 Gigabit routers with Wi-Fi: overview and features of the best models

Gigabit router – review and rating of models. What is this device, what are its benefits. The best gigabit router models of 2023 today, their description and technical parameters.

Today's router models are equipped with Ethernet connectors with a bandwidth of 100 Mbit/s or 1 Gbit/s.

But does the average user need a device with gigabit ports, and what equipment to choose in this case?

In this review, we will examine these issues, consider the best devices with 1 Gbit/s Ethernet connectors, and consider their advantages and disadvantages.

The main criteria for choosing a gigabit router

Keep in mind! The main reason to focus on 1Gbps models is the high-speed Internet.

And while many carriers today still offer plans with a maximum speed of 100 Mbps, there is a clear trend toward breaking that line.

In addition, GPON technology with its high transmission speed requirements is becoming more and more widespread.

As for the rest when selecting a gigabit router you need to consider the following:

• Standards.
  Modern devices are classified as Wi-Fi 802.11 b, a, g, n or ac.
  The latter is one of the newest with the fastest performance.
• Bandwidth.
  In theory, the bigger it is, the better.
  But in real conditions, the maximum bandwidth of 1167 or 1900 Mbps declared by the manufacturer is practically impossible to achieve.
• Frequency range.
  Dual-band routers with operating frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz will be the best solution for a fast and stable wireless network.
  Some devices support simultaneous operation on two frequencies.
• 3G/4G Support.
  Some devices allow you to connect to the Internet network of mobile operators via a built-in or external modem.
  In the latter case, the connection is made via a USB port.

Brief description of Wi-Fi 6 technology

The name of the wireless interface Wi-Fi 6 is due to a modified approach to the designation. The key advantages of the technology include:

1. Significant increase in bandwidth. The technology uses a bi-directional stream with multiple outputs and inputs. This solution delivers outstanding data rates of up to 9-16 Gbps, which is almost 1.5 times faster than the previous generation, which operated at a maximum of 11 Gbps.
2. Channel span extension to eliminate errors when using only one lane by different access points.
3. Supports frequency division and reintroduction. Channels are automatically subdivided to serve a large number of customers without affecting bandwidth performance.
4. Backward compatibility. Legacy gadgets with 4th or 5th generation Wi-Fi will support the new technology, only at their own speeds.
5. Progressive encryption standards. This provides maximum protection of confidential information from interception.

ASUS RT-AX88U

ASUS RT-AX88U is a revolutionary product in the market of networking equipment with support of the latest generation of Wi-Fi 6, futuristic design with chopped edges on the body and inserts with gold coloring, as well as an interesting backlight (if you want it can be turned off by using a special key).

The AX88U hardware platform is built on the basis of a 4-core processor module with a clock frequency of 1.8 GHz. It is complemented by 1 gigabyte of RAM and 256 MB of permanent storage for settings, firmware files and other software. The highest bandwidths are provided by two Broadcom BCM43684 chips that support the flagship communications standard. Data transmission is carried out by four external amplifiers that support MIMO 4×4. The declared capacity of AX88U manufacturer reaches 6000 megabits per second. 20% of that speed is handled by the 2.4 GHz band, and the remaining 80% is handled in the 5 GHz band. The router supports AiMesh and Media Bridge technologies to combine multiple network devices into one network and obtain a high-speed infrastructure within a spacious room.

In many ways, the AX88U is an upgraded "variant" of the RT-AC88U, only with Wi-Fi 6 support. Externally, these devices look almost identical, the same is true of the available features and hardware, including 8 Gigabit network ports. If you need to organize a powerful network infrastructure in your office or large home, the AX88U router is an indispensable solution.

Keenetic Ultra KN-1810

Opens the rating of the best Wi-Fi routers for the office a budget model of the Keenetic Ultra KN-1810 series. The first thing that attracts this router is its laconic design and absence of visual defects, backlashes or other small defects in the design. The software architecture is the same as the one used in KN-1010, another inexpensive device. The same is true for the hardware. At the same time, the router uses an additional controller, and the maximum speed of Wi-Fi connection in 5 GHz reaches 1733 Mbit/s. If you select the 802.11n standard, it drops to 800 Mbps. The Ultra KN-1810 also has a redesigned power adapter, which has received increased power and has become larger.

The appearance of the router retains the corporate style and looks very successful. The size of the case is 213x153x33 mm, so the device doesn't take much space on the desktop and perfectly combines with the interior of the businessman's office. In addition to the rubber feet for standard horizontal mounting, there are also wall mounting brackets. The router is equipped with large antennas (175x20x8) mm, which is the merit of a special design based on a PCB with 5 dBi gain. At the same time, the antennas are not removable, although it is unlikely that for someone this will seem a minus. As the "heart" of the hardware configuration is the MediaTek MT7621AT processor with two cores and a frequency of 880 MHz. There are built-in USB controllers and a network switch with 1Gbps bandwidth.

-Heats up when many devices are connected at the same time.

The Keenetic Ultra KN-1810 is a powerful Internet center with dual-band Mesh Wi-Fi AC2600, USB ports and advanced features, making it an effective solution for office use.

TP-LINK Archer C20.

Of the variety of office routers, the TP-LINK Archer C20 is one of the least expensive in the company's lineup. The updated series is available with three antennas, which have a non-removable design, but effectively expand the broadcast area (the previous model used only two antennas). On the case you can find 4 Ethernet RJ-45 Fast Ethernet ports with the bandwidth of 100 Mbps, as well as one WAN, to which the cable from the provider is connected. The router works in the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. The latter is in demand in office centers with increased airwaves noise and a serious reduction in signal transmission speed. In the 2.4 GHz band it is 300 Mbit/s and in the 5 GHz band it is 433 Mbit/s.

As for the quality of the antennas, it is unquestionable. Each module has a factor of 5 dBi. Combined with a 23 dBm transmitter, this is an excellent value. Among the available functions are DHCP servers, Firewall and NAT. It is possible to use the router as a bridge, or to organize secure VPN traffic. The declared power and coverage are quite enough to serve a small office with an area of 80-100 sq. m. or a 2-4 room apartment. In addition to the above options, the router has the following technologies:

The initial configuration of the device and subsequent management is done in the following ways:

If you are looking for an inexpensive, but moderately functional router for the office, TP-LINK Archer C20 will show itself only from the good side. This device has an optimal price/quality ratio, keeps a stable signal over Wi-Fi and does not require long setup.

Router manufacturers

Below is a list of the most famous, in the product line of which you can find solutions for a city apartment, a small office or a large company.

Chinese giant that specializes in the production of telecommunications equipment. The range includes routers for home and business, with functionality for almost any requirement and budget. From low-power routers from 1500 rubles, to office equipment, the prices of which start from 15000 rubles.

A Lithuanian brand that develops and manufactures network equipment and software for it. Direct delivery to the Russian Federation since March 4 is not, but for all the well-known Chinese marketplace to order it easily. True delivery will cost at least 7000 rubles.

A Taiwanese brand that produces electronics and a limited line of telecommunications equipment, including gamer equipment. Prices are above average, but the functionality and performance is excellent.

The name of the brand is Taiwanese Zyxel. In 2017, when reorganizing the corporation Keenetic became an independent company, specializing in software development, production of devices for "smart home".
In fact, there are many more companies. The same XIAOMI releases several models for home use a year.

Rating of the best Wi-Fi routers for business in 2023

Cost up to 15000 rubles

Powerful – the speed of 867 Mbit/s at 5 GHz is still not enough. Otherwise, it is an excellent device, with an impressive list of useful options, clear interface – according to the reviews it does not take more than 10 minutes to set it up. Compact, with one built-in antenna, weighing only 170 grams.

• Support for multiband data transmission, simultaneous operation in two bands;
• 4 LAN-ports and one USB;
• built-in internal antenna;
• filtering options by Web site address, IP;
• network filter;
• handy application.

To connect the access to the wireless network you need a USB modem. There are no complaints about the construction and the technical parameters. But the power level of 27 dBm, which is three units more than the maximum permissible, is questionable. It can be used for installation indoors, dust and moisture protection is at least IP20.

Here with the transmitter power everything is normal – the device is absolutely safe for humans. The parameters are also excellent – there is support for MU-MIMO, MESH, VPN, DHCP, data encryption by WEP, WPA, WPA2 for a secure connection.

As for the management, it is possible to set the settings either via a mobile application or via the web interface. Plus the possibility of remote administration via Telnet or from an external network.

It is not suitable for installation in rooms with high humidity or in a warehouse – the level of protection is minimal. Otherwise, it is a good router with an extended set of options.

• 2 USB ports with the possibility to connect print/DLNA/ FTP-servers, and 4 LAN-ports;
• Four external antennas for signal amplification;
• Possibility to adjust guest network parameters – speed reduction, access restrictions for main network resources.

Keenetic Giga for the freelance professional

Keenetic Giga is the right model for the home office with NAS: supports Wi-Fi 6, which will provide fast access to data in the local network. Support for fifth and fourth wi-fi is also provided. The speed limit in the 5 GHz range is 1201 Mbit/s, at 2.4 GHz – 574 Mbit/s. Equipped with two USB-connectors: one 3.0 and one 2.0. Connect a 4G LTE or 3G mobile USB modem and you have several devices with Internet access. USB-ports can also be used for external drives, to connect a printer.

The model supports FTP-server, DLNA-server, Yandex.DNS, OFDMA, server and OpenVPN client. It is equipped with four antennas, the gain is 5 dBi. Configuring the router via Telnet, web interface in a browser or an application on a smartphone. IntelliQoS technology prioritizes traffic. As a result, the quality of the connection is improved. Supports WPA3-Enterprise data protection.

ASUS RT-AX55 – no white spots in a big apartment

The ASUS RT-AX55 supports Wi-Fi 6, 5, and 4 – providing fast network performance with multiple connected devices. Smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart home gadgets do not interfere with each other when connected simultaneously. The 5 GHz band has a peak speed of 1201 Mbps, and the 2 GHz band has a peak speed of 574 Mbps. There are four Gigabit Ethernet connectors on board.

We configure the router via SSH, web-interface in a browser or ASUS Router phone app. It supports OFDMA, OpenVPN client and server, and IPTV. Friendly with Alexa voice assistant. Does not slow down while processing data thanks to quad-core 1.5 GHz processor. Connection is confident and stable – no blind spots, even in a large apartment or house.

Top 6. Tenda TX3.

One of the most inexpensive routers that support the new wireless standard Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax).

• The average price: 3390 rubles.
• Country: China
• Power and gain: 20 dBm/6 dBi
• Operating Speed at 2.4 and 5.0 GHz (Mbps) 574/1201
• Theoretical Speed (Mbps): 1775
• Number of antennas: 4

A low-cost Wi-Fi router for your home, apartment or office that supports the Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, which provides better signal stability and an increase in the average data transfer rate. This dual-band router has excellent signal strength on both frequencies and has an increased antenna gain, allowing it to even out Wi-Fi coverage over its entire area of coverage. As a bonus, there is support for Alexa voice assistant. At the same time, the gadget does not support MESH network scaling, it does not have a USB port, and the reviews say it is prone to a lot of heat. Other customer complaints include the short power adapter cable, the router's white, stained color, and large size.

Top 5. TP-LINK Archer MR400.

A quality option for those who want to be able to connect to the network not only by cable, but also through the tariffs of mobile operators

• Average price: 6190 roubles.
• Country: China
• Power and coefficient. Gain: 20 dBm/5 dBi
• Operating speed at 2.4 and 5.0 GHz (Mbps): 300/867
• Theoretical speed (Mbps): 1167
• Number of Antennas: 2

The best mid-budget Wi-Fi router with 3G/4G-networks support, for which it is equipped with a SIM card slot. This layout allows you to connect to the network both via cable and via cellular towers. In the second case, the gadget supports data reception speeds of up to 150 Mbit/s and then can distribute wi-fi to several devices at once in two bands: 2.4 and 5 GHz. It should be remembered that a couple of external antennas catch the cellular signal, and for data transfer via Wi-Fi internal antennas are used, which significantly reduces the coverage area and for a large house or multi-room apartment signal may not be enough. The 5 GHz band suffers in particular, where the speed drop is most noticeable through a single concrete wall.

How to choose a router

Router, also known as a router, is selected by technical characteristics, as well as any other computer equipment. Let's go over them briefly:

For signal transmission, Wi-Fi technology uses 2.4 and 5 GHz channels. Many modern routers support both channels, but there are on sale models with a narrower specification.

The 5 GHz signal broadcasts at 5 GHz, giving the user high speeds of up to 1 Gbps. But at the same time it covers a smaller area and is highly susceptible to physical obstacles: furniture, walls.

The 2.4 GHz frequency offers a larger coverage area, but the data transfer speeds are much inferior – only 150 Mbit/s. In addition, this band is susceptible to interference from other wireless signal repeaters and receivers.

Today's router models can support one band, both bands at the same time, or even work on three channels: two on 5 GHz and one on 2.4 GHz.

2. Wi-Fi standard.

The wireless connection standard determines the maximum possible data rate between the router and the devices connected to it. The higher the standard number, the higher the data transfer rate. Right now, Wi-Fi 4 or 802.11n and Wi-Fi 5 or 802.11ac are ubiquitous. A new standard, Wi-Fi 6, is just in the implementation stage.

When organizing a wireless network, the rule of backward compatibility applies, which means that the device supporting the lowest standard determines the data rate.

For a home network it is possible to organize completely wireless coverage. In contrast, a corporate network often requires a fixed connection for data protection purposes. Such a network guarantees the highest and most stable speed of information exchange. For home needs, 2 to 3 LAN-ports are enough. For offices, when choosing a router, the number of permanently connected devices should be taken into account.

Antennas also determine the speed and stability of wireless communication channels. And the more there are, the better. With each antenna, the speed limit increases by 150 Mbps. But keep in mind that even a maximum-equipped modem won't exceed the speed limit set by your ISP.

Some router models are equipped with a removable antenna for convenient transportation. Operation of such a router without an antenna is not allowed. Lack of load on the antenna circuit can cause the radio module to malfunction.

Top 4. ASUS RT-AX92U.

Very reliable and functional router with the quite adequate price considering its orientation to the business usage.

• Average price: 14850 roubles.
• Country: Taiwan
• Power and gain: 20 dBm/5 dBi
• Operating speeds at 2.4 and 5.0 GHz (Mbps): 400/4804
• Theoretical Speed (Mbps): 5200
• Number of Antennas: 6
• Ports: 4xLAN, 1xUSB 2.0, 1xUSB 3.1

One of the most powerful routers on the market, perfectly adapted to the tasks of business. An important feature is the operation in three bands (two at 5.0 GHz) and the joint use of OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies within the standard WiFi 802.11ax, which allows for a tangible increase in bandwidth. For more signal reliability, two internal antennas are added to the four external antennas, and the 2-core chip runs at 1.8 GHz and is complemented by 512 MB of RAM. In addition to the four LAN ports this router is equipped with a pair of USB with the option to connect the LTE-modem. It is also worth mentioning that RT-AX92U is the most secure gadget and complies with the advanced security protocols, plus it has its own protection system within the framework of AiProtection. As for the negatives, the reviews swear by the lack of information in the instruction, which describes less than half of the functionality, plus there are complaints about the quality of work with SSD-drives and a tendency to strong heating of the case.

• AiProtection Pro security technology
• Supports WiFi connectivity standard 6
• 2 bands at 5.0 GHz

• Complaints about heating of the case
• Unstable connection to SSD drives

Top 3. Keenetic Peak KN-2710

This model has the largest set of network expansion and office equipment connectivity: 8 LAN ports plus one SFP, USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 each

• Average price: 16500 roubles.
• Country: Taiwan
• Power and gain: 20 dBm/5 dBi
• Operating Speed at 2.4 & 5.0 GHz (Mbps): 800/1733
• Theoretical speed (Mbps): 2533
• Antenna Number: 4
• Ports: 8xLAN, 1xUSB 3.0, 1xUSB 2.0, 1xSFP

Not budget, but very reliable wi-fi router, ideal for business. It has 4 removable antennas (5 dBi), 1.35 GHz dual core chip, 512 MB RAM and 256 MB flash memory. Powered by the 802.11ac standard, it supports multi-streaming MU-MIMO and meets all modern security requirements, including built-in protection against DDoS. As additional "pluses": MESH support and SFP-port for network scaling, as well as the option to connect to the Internet via LTE-modem, which will have to use one of the USB-ports. Users do not point out any disadvantages apart from the price, but there are some critical remarks about the quality of fixing the antennas, large size, and possible bugs in the latest firmware. Also note that not the most powerful processor is used here, so that "costly" connections lead to a fast load of 80 percent or more.

2 Keenetic

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Keenetic is a subsidiary of Zyxel, which inherited the most sought-after line of routers for the home or apartment. It is one of the top three best-selling networking equipment brands on the Russian market, offering very high-quality models with support for two bands – 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz. Keenetic brand products feature a large number of unique technological solutions, high level of access protection and extended factory warranty.

Among the most popular models of this manufacturer, we would like to mention the Keenetic City Wi-Fi router (KN-1511) with three antennas, which has a very affordable price and provides excellent communication quality in the city apartment, has VPN support, built-in protection against hacker attacks, three LAN-ports for connecting a PC and multistreaming data transmission function.

1 TP-LINK

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TP-LINK is China's leading manufacturer of networking equipment with a fairly extensive lineup that can meet the needs of every budget. Moreover, in 2020, the routers of this brand are the best-selling in Russia, which further confirms their high quality, noted in numerous tests. And the wide range allows you to easily choose a model with optimal parameters for use both in an apartment and in a country house.

The TP-LINK TL-WR841N is particularly noteworthy – this Wi-Fi router was the top seller in the first quarter of 2020 in a number of stores at once and has balanced features at a very affordable price. The key features of TL-WR841N are the option to work as a repeater and a WISP access point, as well as the quality adaptation to connect multiple wireless devices simultaneously.

Warning. The above information is not a purchasing guide. Please, contact the professionals for any advice!

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