In today's connected world, a strong and reliable Wi-Fi connection is essential. With the increasing number of devices that rely on wireless connectivity, having a high-performance router is crucial. One such router that has gained popularity is the AC router. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what are, their advantages over previous generations, how to choose the right one for your home network, and how to optimise its performance.
What are AC Routers?
AC routers are the latest generation of Wi-Fi routers that use the 802.11ac wireless standard. They are designed to deliver faster speeds and improved performance compared to their predecessors. AC routers operate on dual bands, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, providing better coverage and reducing interference. These routers support multiple input and multiple output (MIMO) technology, allowing them to handle multiple connections simultaneously, resulting in smoother and faster Wi-Fi experiences.
Advantages of AC Routers:
Lightning-Fast Speeds: AC routers offer impressive speeds, often reaching up to gigabit speeds. With their advanced technology, they can deliver high-bandwidth activities such as streaming 4K videos, online gaming, and large file downloads without buffering or lag.
Enhanced Range and Coverage: The dual-band functionality of AC routers helps to mitigate interference and congestion, resulting in a broader coverage area. The 5 GHz band is especially beneficial in crowded environments where the 2.4 GHz band may suffer from interference.
Improved Device Capacity: AC routers utilise advanced MIMO technology, which allows them to handle multiple devices simultaneously. This is particularly useful in households with multiple users and a multitude of devices connected to the network.
Choosing the Right AC Router:
Consider Speed Requirements: Evaluate your internet plan and determine the speed you require. AC routers come with different speed ratings (e.g., AC1200, AC1750, AC3200), which indicate the maximum combined speed across all bands. Choose a router that matches or exceeds your internet plan's speed to fully utilise the available bandwidth.
Dual-Band vs. Tri-Band: AC routers are available in dual-band and tri-band configurations. Dual-band routers operate on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, while tri-band routers have an additional 5 GHz band. Tri-band routers are suitable for heavy internet usage with multiple devices, while dual-band routers are sufficient for most households.
Antenna Configuration: Consider the number and type of antennas in the router. External antennas generally provide better coverage and range compared to internal antennas. If you have a large home or face coverage issues, consider routers with detachable or adjustable external antennas.
Additional Features: AC routers come with various additional features such as USB ports for file sharing and printer connectivity, parental controls, guest networks, and Quality of Service (QoS) settings. Assess your specific needs and choose a router that offers the features that are important to you.
Optimising AC Router Performance:
Optimal Placement: Place your AC router in a central location to ensure equal coverage throughout your home or office. Avoid placing it near obstructions like walls, furniture, or appliances that may interfere with the Wi-Fi signal.
Firmware Updates: Regularly update your router's firmware to ensure you have the latest security patches and performance improvements. Check the manufacturer's website for firmware updates and follow their instructions for installation.
Wi-Fi Channel Selection: To minimise interference from neighbouring networks, experiment with different Wi-Fi channels. Choose channels that are less congested to optimize your router's performance. Many routers have an auto-channel selection feature.
Password Protection and Encryption: Secure your AC router by setting a strong password and enabling encryption. Use the latest encryption standards such as WPA2 or WPA3 to protect your network from unauthorised access. Avoid using common or easily guessable passwords to ensure the security of your Wi-Fi network.
Quality of Service (QoS) Settings: Take advantage of QoS settings available in AC routers to prioritise certain types of internet traffic. For example, you can prioritise streaming or gaming traffic over other activities, ensuring a smoother experience for those high-bandwidth applications.
Regular Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance tasks such as restarting your router periodically. This helps to clear the memory and resolve any temporary glitches that may affect its performance. Additionally, keep your router's antennas clean from dust and debris for optimal signal strength.
Conclusion:
AC routers have revolutionised the Wi-Fi experience, providing faster speeds, wider coverage, and improved device capacity. Choosing the right AC router for your home network involves considering factors such as speed requirements, dual-band vs. tri-band configurations, antenna configuration, and additional features. By optimising your AC router's performance through proper placement, firmware updates, Wi-Fi channel selection, password protection, and QoS settings, you can ensure a seamless and reliable wireless connection.
Investing in an AC router will significantly enhance your internet experience, enabling you to enjoy high-bandwidth activities without interruption. Stay connected, stream your favourite shows, engage in online gaming, and connect multiple devices effortlessly with the power of AC routers. Upgrade your Wi-Fi network today and unlock the full potential of your digital world!
