A router box in your home that helps connect your devices (phone, computer, TV) to the internet. It does this by acting like a traffic cop. It sends your sends your requests (searches, web page requests, etc) out to the internet. When the response comes back, the router makes sure it gets your phone or computer (not someone else in the house). Routers are also designed to keep out unwanted traffic like your neighbor or hackers. If someone says “log on to the WiFi”, they mean connect to the router.

When Should I Replace My Router?

Routers might seems like magic but any piece of electronic equipment they don’t last forever. Knowing when to replace it can save you from slow internet, constant disconnections, and improve your security. Here are some signs it might be time for a new router:

1. Frequent Connection Issues: If you get disconnected often or you have to restart your router frequency to keep things working, those are sign the electronics might be starting to fail.
2. Slow Internet Speeds: Buffering videos, slow loading web pages, and stuttering on video chats are signs your internet is running. You might be paying for a fast connection but your router could slowing you down. Check with your internet provider and a speed checking site like fast.com to see if you aren’t sure.
3. Trouble with New Devices: Computer companies (and computer geeks) love new stuff. Your fancy new phone might need a new router to work at its fastest speeds.
4. Security Issues: The bad guys on the internet are always finding new tricks. That’s why security updates are so important. Old routers often don’t not get updates, making them vulnerable to security threats.
5. Age of the Router: A classic car may be awesome but most routers last between 3 to 5 years. If your router is older than that, it’s probably time for an upgrade to get better performance and security. Like any electronic device, routers wear out over time and can’t keep up with the demands of modern internet usage.

Recommended Routers for Home Use

If you decide it’s time for a new router, here are three great options for home use:

1. Netgear Nighthawk AX5400 (RAX54S)

• Features: Uses the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology for faster speeds and better performance with many devices. It can handle high-speed internet and multiple users without slowing down.
• Benefits: Excellent for homes with lots of devices, strong security features to keep your network safe, and easy to set up with the Nighthawk app, which guides you through the process step by step.
• Best For: Medium to large homes with high internet usage, especially if you have many devices connected at the same time.

2. TP-Link Archer AX73

• Features: Supports Wi-Fi 6, has 6 powerful antennas for a strong signal throughout your home, and allows many devices to connect smoothly without interference.
• Benefits: Good value for money, reliable signal strength that reaches all corners of your home, and easy parental controls to manage what your kids can access online.
• Best For: Families looking for a dependable and affordable router that can handle the demands of modern internet use, including streaming, video calls, and online gaming.

3. Asus RT-AX86U

• Features: Advanced Wi-Fi 6 support and powerful performance for activities like gaming and streaming high-definition videos. It’s designed to handle heavy internet usage without slowing down.
• Benefits: Great for heavy internet users, strong security features to protect your network, and easy-to-use parental controls to ensure safe internet browsing for the whole family.
• Best For: Gamers and people who stream a lot of videos, as well as households with many devices connected at the same time.

Summary

While routers are important, generally reliable devices, they won’t last forever. Whether you are watching movies, video chatting or just browsing the web, a solid internet connection makes it more enjoyable. Replacing an unreliable or older router can often solve some internet connections issues. The routers suggested here would be a good starting place to pick something that meets your needs and budget.

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