Here are seven must-have features that you should pay attention to: Techno 24 When purchasing your next router to ensure a fast, stable and secure connection.

Wi-Fi 6E support

Most modern routers already support 2.4GHz and 5GHz channels, but if you’re buying a new router it’s highly recommended that you choose one that supports at least Wi-Fi 6E. This standard uses the 6 GHz spectrum, which significantly improves connection speed and stability by reducing spectrum congestion, especially in environments with a large number of connected devices.

While Wi-Fi 7 routers are already available, they are generally more expensive, so Wi-Fi 6E is a more practical and budget-friendly choice.

If you’ve purchased a device in the last few years, it’s probably compatible with Wi-Fi 6/6E. For those on a budget, there are many affordable 6E Wi-Fi routers on the market.

Three or four Ethernet ports

While Wi-Fi offers excellent connection speed and stability, a wired Ethernet connection still provides the best performance, especially for online gaming or streaming high-quality content.

Ethernet minimizes latency and maximizes bandwidth, making it ideal for devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, or desktop computers.

A router with three to four Ethernet ports allows you to connect multiple devices for optimal performance. Having Ethernet ports as a backup option is also a lifesaver when it comes to troubleshooting or maintaining Internet access if your Wi-Fi connection drops.

WPA3 security protocol

Security is critical when choosing a router, and WPA3 is the newest encryption standard designed to replace the older WPA2 protocol. WPA3 improves security by offering better encryption between your device and your router, even when using public or open networks. It also reduces the risk of malicious attacks by addressing security vulnerabilities in WPA2.

Many modern routers support both WPA3 and WPA2, allowing you to network in mixed mode. This means that older devices can connect to the network and enjoy the increased level of security that WPA3 provides for new devices.

parental control

For families with children, parental control functions on the router are extremely necessary. These settings allow you to control which websites and services are available on your network. You can block specific sites, control bandwidth allocation, and monitor your children’s online activities to ensure a safe online environment.

Some routers also have advanced features like speed monitoring, bandwidth control, and device prioritization. This will not only help protect your children, but will also allow you to monitor the entire family’s internet usage and manage bandwidth allocation.

Priority of Devices (QoS)

Setting Quality of Service (QoS) or device prioritization is crucial if you have multiple gadgets connected to your network. These settings let you prioritize bandwidth, allowing critical devices like a gaming console or work laptop to achieve higher speeds when needed, while other devices like phones or tablets have a lower priority.

This is especially useful when multiple users are streaming videos, playing games, or downloading files simultaneously, ensuring a smooth experience with no lag or delay.

USB ports or NAS support

Most routers are equipped with USB ports that allow you to connect an external storage device and share it on the network. This feature allows for quick and easy file sharing and essentially turns your router into a basic NAS (Network Attached Storage) without the need for additional hardware.

While it won’t replace a dedicated NAS system for storing large amounts of data, it’s a great option for sharing small files like movies, music, or photos between your devices.

Mobile app for easy setup

Many modern routers offer mobile apps for easy setup, which can be very useful. Instead of accessing your router’s settings through a complex web interface, these apps provide an intuitive way to monitor network activity, control connected devices, and adjust settings.

A good mobile app makes managing your home network easier and more accessible by allowing you to quickly make changes, monitor bandwidth usage, and even receive notifications about network problems.

When choosing a new Wi-Fi router, it’s important to choose a modern device that improves your overall experience and has modern features, from better connections with Wi-Fi 6E to improved security with WPA3. These features allow you to maximize the potential of your Internet connection, making it easier for you to stream video, game, or work without interruption.