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What is tx power in a router. Choosing a Wi-Fi router - Rating of the best models for home

What a pity that wi-fi coverage cannot be ubiquitous. It’s a pity that you can’t connect to your home Wi-Fi at work - the signal doesn’t “finish off”. But what is the range (coverage) of Wi-Fi routers and what does this radius depend on? Today we will deal with this issue and learn everything about the coverage of wi-fi networks.

The range of a wi-fi router - the phrase does not make sense. if we need a range, let's say to connect a network of devices spaced ten kilometers apart, this is one thing, but in this case the antenna is directed and there is no question of any radius. Or we don’t catch in the gazebo behind the bathhouse, here we are talking about the radius, but the range has nothing to do with it. because it can not catch as because of that. that the signal does not finish, and from the fact that the signal is too strong and the device “chokes” and, perhaps, to solve the problem, it will be necessary to reduce the power and range.

Since the value is spherical, the documentation usually indicates the rounded average range for two identical devices with a typical antenna. This parameter depends on the power, which cannot exceed 100 milliwatts (20 dBm) for a household router, which approximately corresponds to a range of 150 m in an open field or 50 m indoors. All these figures, as usual, are taken for an absolutely elastic spherical horse in vacuum packing. Actually, by itself - the range is a complex parameter, which includes many characteristics of both points (both the transmitter and the receiver - the reception quality is different). It is not in vain that there are Wi-Fi detectors, with which specially trained people measure the real signal level on different distances, precisely because it is easier to measure than to calculate.
We often hear from fans of one or another manufacturer that “everything is rubbish, but asus” is lying. They are shamelessly lying, all manufacturers are limited by the same top power parameter and it doesn’t matter who exactly produced Asus, Zyxel, D-link, tp-link, tenda or others. Except when both the transmitter and receiver are from the same manufacturer.

Communication on related machines will be more stable and better, all due to the fact that every eminent Chinese has his own protocol for his devices. In general, if you plan to use several connected points. it is worth choosing iron from one manufacturer, thanks to its additives to the communication standard, such a choice will make life easier in order. In all other cases, you should pay attention to the support of modes, technical specifications, the ability to change the firmware and other "little things" up to the possibility of connecting an external antenna (the most for the range), and not on a sticker on the case, in the end, everything is made, if not at one, then at neighboring factories.

However, the world of routers also has its own excellent students, for example, the same professional tool Mikrotik or ubiquiti nanostation are incomparable as a router and bypass the power limit due to their professional orientation (they have a higher ceiling).

What affects the range of a Wi-fi router

Everything affects the range of wi-fi, well, or almost everything. The main culprits are:

Frequency - the higher, the worse it spreads and is more dependent on the environment.
Protocol version 802.11 - without MIMO, an adaptive antenna is not feasible. Must be 802.11n or higher.
Power, far from always, "the more the better." Legally limited from above.
Antenna. There are a lot of things in this word - gain power, radiation pattern, matching quality. Choosing the right antenna is the first step in providing stable long-range wi-fi.
The terrain, the presence of walls, floors, flat surfaces.
Air noise.
Air humidity.

I probably forgot to mention a few factors, since the propagation of radio waves is indeed affected by most environmental parameters.

3 wi-fi routers with a long range

Let's look at wi-fi routers, the radius and range of a stable connection with which is higher than that of competitors.

MikroTik hAP AC or any other Mikrotik (preferably with a plug-in external antenna). Here and intelligent control of the antenna parameters, and transmitter power up to 1 W for some models, just remember that this is a professional tool - sometimes you have to google. The device is out of competition in terms of capabilities, hardware, flexibility, range, etc.
ASUS RT-AC3200 or any other with support for ASUS AiRadar (long-range communication stability is achieved by individually adjusting the signal to the client and emulating a directional signal).
Any three (or more) horny router with the ability to connect an external antenna instead of the standard ones.

Since the microwave is very close in physical properties, it is logical that the radius (of illumination) of the coating can be increased by raising the lamp (router). However, no one is interested in the radius, well, maybe, except for people with an absolutely round plot, the coverage area of apartments, plots that are very far from the circle, is interesting. And that is why, by limiting the radiation to the "unnecessary" side, it is possible to radically improve the situation. Even a primitive screen made from improvised materials, such as foil, can improve the reception situation. From an ordinary basin, for example, comes out a wonderful screen with the function of a focusing lens.

Turn the antennas, communication is not possible on a direct signal, it can perfectly exist on a reflected one, in addition, the antennas can simply clog each other in some positions. In the simplest case, if the device has one antenna, the antenna axis should be perpendicular to the direction of the area with the weakest reception. If the antennas are built into the router, the result may be a shift or rotation of the router. So move and measure and move again.

Buy and connect a remote antenna. In addition to the obvious function of receiving and transmitting, the antenna is also a signal amplifier. The quality of communication strongly depends on the matching of the antenna and the router, the matching also depends on the length of the connecting cable. Therefore, the calculation of the antenna should be carried out by a specialist, taking into account your personal parameters (shape of directivity, state of the air, etc.). By the way, since we are talking about antennas, here we take two beer cans, I think it’s clear that you shouldn’t expect miracles from intricate beer can designs, making and configuring such a thing is a very good auto-training and this is their main purpose.

Set the router to work in the cleanest channel. There are analyzer programs for analyzing wi-fi, they will help you choose the least noisy frequency, which will not only have a beneficial effect on the range, but also increase the speed and stability of reception.
Connect the old router as a repeater, however, more on that later.

When setting up, a sensor is desirable; a smartphone or laptop placed at the point with the weakest reception is suitable for this role. You need to download and install one of wifi programs analyzers, the task of the smartphone will be to display changes in the power of the received signal. For these purposes, the analyzer program has a network power measurement mode.

Focusing on the power readings at the point of interest, it is worth trying (if possible):

different ranges (relevant for dual-band) - the situation with the passage of the wave may be different for the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands.
find in the selected range free channel. The channel must be free, both at the point of installation of the router, and at the point of interest (it is often a situation when a remote point, where we have a tester, falls into the zone of another network at an adjacent frequency, and interference is not visible on the router, since the interfering the network does not finish) free channels will be shown by the same wifi analyzer program.
turning off or vice versa turning on automation, for example, selecting the “Network mode” transfer mode - sometimes the intelligence of the device is useful, but often “N Only” is more long-range.
power, the word “play” is most suitable here. The fact is that power directly affects the range. But a) it must be large enough to reach the far point, b) small enough not to interfere with the normal operation of devices near, c) a signal of different power can pass through the section in different ways.
Power control (Transmit Power) has a different logic, some manufacturers allow you to adjust the reception gain, some consider the radiation strength more important, some consider the maximum to be the norm and adjust the attenuation. Usually, in this parameter there is the word power and a scale or designation of dBm units. In any case, you need to read the documentation (for example, mikrotik has a field for specifying the range to the client in point-to-point Cell Radius mode, which cannot be lowered below 10 km, and the Tx Power Mode field, where the card rates parameter sets the maximum power to the household level of 20 dbm, precisely, so as not to jam nearby customers).
The same situation is from the category of “must try” when tuning antennas. A simple adjustment of the position of the antennas or even the location of the router can improve the quality and range of transmission by changing the environment (reducing the reflected signal, reducing distortion, avoiding obstacles). And it can only make it worse, there is no universal answer and you have to try and look at the signal changes on the test device.
Visible from afar wifi with a speed of 1kb / s is not needed by anyone. Since in general the issue of range will be raised to build a stable and fast network, it is useful not to forget about the functions that improve the stability and quality of communication. Each device has its own set, and many of these options are enabled by default. Channel width, channel extension (do not forget to make sure that the main + extension pair falls on free channels), proprietary protocols and functions - Mikrotik nv2 as an example, if, of course, the equipment allows, in general, all those goodies that the manufacturer usually boasts on the packaging .

How to increase the range of a wi-fi router using a repeater

A repeater, also known as a repeater or repeater, exists as a separate device, however, the power, and therefore the coverage of its network, leaves much to be desired. It is much more rational to use an additional router for this role. Even a very budget piece of iron will quite cope with the role of a repeater. In case of purchase, it is advisable to make sure that the selected model has this option, with hardware support, the setup comes down to pressing a couple of buttons (there are options when the hardware does not support, but available alternative firmware with this option). And do not forget about your protocol nuances from manufacturers, they especially like to bother with buns “for their own” Zyxel and Asus (a pair of Zyxels will work significantly better than a pair of Zyxels - Asus).

It makes no sense to describe the setting in the wizard, the repeater working as a client actually copies wifi network the main point and relays its devices connected to wi-fi automatically switch to a stronger signal.

In general, using a repeater is the most correct way to solve problems with the coverage radius, with its help you can drag the network even into a bunker with lead walls, unless of course you have one.

3 more helpful articles:

WiFi Guard is an indispensable utility for all enthusiasts with a small wireless network who want to secure it.…

WiFi Crack is a program for forgetful users or novice crackers. Allows easy and simple brute force…

05/23/2016 at 10:59 am (4 years ago)

Hey! I feel that wi-fi is hammering through my body. I want to get the neighbors to reduce power. I have modems and all ericsson neighbors have two antennas. Well, a very powerful modem. At night, of course, I cut it down.

05/23/2016 at 11:29 (4 years ago)

Hello. If my opinion is interesting, then I doubt very much that Wi-Fi can harm the body. Yes, it definitely won’t increase health, but it’s unlikely that you would directly feel the influence of Wi-Fi on the body.
As well as two antennas. They do not mean that the modems emit a strong signal. And the Wi-Fi signal itself cannot be very strong. It is restricted there, in accordance with the law, as far as I know.
Usual mobile phone, has a much stronger effect on the body, compared to Wi-Fi. It is a fact.

Personally, I am of this opinion: it is best to install a router in the room where you are the least. For example, in the hallway. And where you don't sleep. And turn it off at night if you want. can be customized automatic shutdown. But, not all routers have it.

05/03/2017 at 20:58 (3 years ago)

No one listens to the radio at full volume, being next to him, because the long evolution of man gave him an organ (ear) with a pain threshold of loud noise! But she did not give a person an organ signaling an excess of microwaves, tk. there were no such sources in abundance near a person! But such an “organ” can easily “appear” in the form of something, for example, hair loss or cellular pathology with pain, if we ourselves do not take care of the sanitary environment around us. So it is imperative to lower the power to the required and sufficient level, comrades! And it’s even better not to chase Wi-Fi freebies (as you know: Free cheese ...), but to use wired technologies or telephone Internet, which emits only at the moments of information exchange with the base station (as an alternative, where possible).

08/10/2017 at 09:45 (3 years ago)

In an apartment building, the number of devices operating in the 2.4 GHz band (dangerous for biological objects) is commensurate with the number of residents. The intensity of the total field in some areas may exceed the limits allowed by the Sanpin. Then decide for yourself if it's worth the risk or not.

05/05/2017 at 20:47 (3 years ago)

Completely in solidarity! Everyone would do that! I feel hurt too. With Wi-Fi, the ambush is that its emitter is in close proximity to a person, and all comparisons with the radio waves that we are surrounded by are completely incorrect (both with phones and microwaves, because they radiate for a short time, and not around the clock like Wi-Fi !) After all, the signal from radio waves on receivers even rarely reaches 100% on the reception indicator because their sources are very far away! And the harmfulness increases sharply when approaching the transmitter at a "critical" distance. For example, if, when approaching the source of radio waves at a distance of 8 meters, the signal level reached 100%, then what will be the radiation level at a closer distance can only be calculated, because. Gadgets do not show the level of "off scale" to us. Further, reducing the distance to 2m. (i.e. 4 times, there is a quadratic dependence) we get 400% of the signal (up to 1 m - the distance is 8 times, and the level is 8 * 8 = 64 times, i.e. 6400% (!) Of the nominal, etc. .. Avoid such redundancy!) . Everyone talks about power, about harmfulness, but they don’t say at what DISTANCE they measure it! Because theoretically, when the distance tends to zero, the impact begins to tend to infinity! Therefore, lower the power to levels of 10-80% in your apartments, and do not be lazy to turn it off at night when you are not using it, or leave home, because the harmfulness from neighboring routers is applied to your body in total (Alexander counted 65 points !!!). Cellular telephone it is safer because one emitter is very far away (base station), and the emitter in the device, although close, emits only during a conversation, which is why they say that they would not talk for a long time for safety.

09/18/2019 at 01:23 (5 months ago)

Solidarity. Because. If you think logically, then you will come to this. (And in principle the same opinion was before reading). But why the author (Sergey) writes (in com.) That the phone is more dangerous is not clear. Do they write on the Internet? a lot of things are written. But they don’t explain, but apparently they write off each other, not understanding what they are writing about. Heard a ringing, but does not know where he is.
What kind of radiation does the phone create in passive mode? (i.e. the receiver). You can’t get anywhere from the network signal anyway - you have to run far))). We are not talking about such insignificant signals. Further. How much energy the phone consumes in receiver mode (its tiny battery lasts an average of a week - it doesn't matter if it's a little less). 0.014 W (approximately) i.e. per hour - Provided that the battery is new, which is a rather rare phenomenon)). consumption - well, let it be 2 watts. And this figure is only approaching the power of the router.
And now, how much does the router (wi-fi)) consume router) in normal mode (work). Now I'll take a look. 4 watts (100%), and 3 watts (15%). (And I have such a small TOTOLIHK) And if if they don't lie in the percentage settings, then according to some calculations it can be assumed that the signal takes a little more than 1 watt (at 100%) I don't think that the loss is about 3 watts. Yes, and practice shows that the signal (i.e. the level of Wi-Fi) changes slightly - between 100 and 15%. Therefore, based on some considerations (taking into account mainly heating), it can be assumed that the cost of the signal will most likely be about 3 watts (2, 5). Yes, and common sense suggests that this figure will be closer to the last - we do not live in the era of the Middle Ages))). (In extreme cases, 2 watts).
So we have two figures 0.014 W / h (tel-n) and 2.5 W / h (router). All this is approximately of course, and the numbers may differ several times (for both indicators). Nevertheless, the difference was 178 times (Guess who won)). In fact, it is even more, because in the phone (0.014 W / h) this is only power consumption, and the signal power will of course be less. And only when talking, these numbers approach each other (about 2-2.5 watts).
Of course, much is not taken into account here (including we do not know what kind of waves they are (in each case) and how they affect health). But the dependence of the signal strength on the power consumption - I think no one will deny it.
Now let's take one more fact. Probably everyone has heard about how phones affect when we eat in a minibus, when someone is talking (After all, THEY WROTE ABOUT THIS).
IT DOESN'T SEE IT STRANGE THAT THE PHONE IS HARMFUL, AND THE ROUTER WHICH IS POWERFUL TO THE PHONE (TRANSMISSION) IS NOT. AND THIS IS WE ARE NOT TALKING ABOUT 5G. I HOPE YOU CAN GUESS.
WHY DO I HAVE A ROUTER??? — GIVEN IT FOR FREE BECAUSE I DO NOT INTEND TO USE IT IN WI-FI MODE. (PRIMARILY). AFTER SALE PEOPLE WRITE THAT IN THE FUTURE PEOPLE SHOULD LAY THE CABLES IN THE WALL. (ALTHOUGH NOTHING PREVENTS THEM TO LAY NOW ALONG THE PLINTH) BECAUSE IN THE ROUTER (ROUTER 4 SOCKETS (FOR LAN). ACCORDINGLY, TRANSFER THE LAPTOP WHEREVER YOU WANT (IF THERE IS A CABLE). WIFI, EVEN IN THE SETTINGS. AND WHAT YOU WANTED - HEALTH IS MORE EXPENSIVE. ALSO AN OPTION: LAPTOP NEAR THE ROUTER, TURN ON THE ROUTER, TURN ON THE LAPTOP. NEIGHBORS -TUMAKOV)))
WHAT ABOUT WAI-FI HARM. THEN ALL THE SAME ALET IT IS NOT SO LOUD, BUT THEY ALSO WRITE ABOUT HARM ON CHILDREN. (BECAUSE THE SKULL BONES) ARE THINER .. BUT IS IT IS HARMLESS FOR ADULTS?? AFTER ALL, WHO READS BETWEEN THE LINES - ALREADY READ LONG. (HOW EXACTLY HE CAN BE).
YES, HERE. WHEN SOMEONE IS TALKING ON THE PHONE. CLOSE (ON THE ROUTE) - HARMFUL, AND APPLY TO THE EAR UP TO 20-30 MINUTES A DAY - NO.- PARADOX.- IS IT NOT TRUE ??))))

BUSINESS-TELECOM presents the top 10 the best Wi-Fi routers in 2019. We use all routers in our work, which means that we have experienced their pros and cons from our own experience.

choose a good one wifi router not so easy. The main criteria for the formation of the TOP-10 were the stability of the devices, the provided Internet speed and the coverage area.

10. D-Link DIR-825/AC

Wi-Fi is on the 10th place in our rating. D-link router DIR-825/AC is a rational solution for organizing high-speed wireless in a small office, cafe or retail outlet. The router provides a stable connection from any computer or mobile gadget.

The router performs a function base station to organize access to the Internet from devices operating according to the standards 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n and 802.11ac.

✔ Benefits:

Speed up to 300 Mbps at 2.4 GHz, up to 867 Mbps at 5 GHz.
Speed wireless connection- up to 1167 Mbps.
Multifunctional USB port.
Supports WEP and WPA/WPA2 security standards.
Weeds out connection requests by MAC address.
Provides access to WPS and WMM technologies.

✘ Disadvantages:

Fixed antennas
Not suitable for large offices and companies, because has a small coverage area.
Gets hot
Not a particularly user-friendly web interface.

The router of this model is popular among users due to its extensive functionality. This device protect your network from hacker attacks and will block access for local network users to unwanted sites.

9.Asus RT-AC51U

Powerful 802.11ac Wi-Fi router offering wireless data rates up to 733Mbps. The presence of a USB connector makes it possible to connect printers, external drives and 3G/4G modems, which significantly expand the functionality of the equipment. It can also be used to charge smartphones, tablets and other gadgets if there is no spare power supply at hand. The developers have created the ASUSWRT interface, which is as convenient and intuitive as possible.

✔ Benefits:

Speeds up to 300 Mbps in 2.4 GHz mode and up to 433 Mbps in 5 GHz mode.
Allows you to monitor the consumption of Internet traffic and limit the speed of the Internet channel for individual applications.
The coverage area is larger than many models. Asus RT-AC51U is equipped with powerful antennas, which increase the range of the wireless network by 150% compared to conventional devices.
The ability to configure for various applications the priority of using the bandwidth of the Internet channel.
Ability to connect to a VPN server.

✘ Disadvantages:

The wireless data transfer rate is slower than other routers.
Small coverage area: Thick walls can be a significant barrier.

Built on the technology of the 5th generation of wireless communication tools, so users get access to all modern features. This is one of the best solutions for offices with a small number of employees.

8.TP Link Archer C60

Continues rating Wi-Fi routers TP-Link Archer C60, which reaches 450 Mbps at 2.4 GHz. This is absolutely enough to send emails, downloading various web pages and working with audio files.

✔ Benefits:

The 5 GHz channel with speeds up to 867 Mbps provides a comfortable viewing of HD video streaming.
Support for the new 802.11ac standard, which is 3 times faster than 802.11n.
5 antennas (three for 2.4 GHz and two for 5 GHz) staggered to optimize simultaneous dual band operation.
The network remains as stable as possible and practically immune to various interferences.
Ability to create a separate guest network for your company's clients.

✘ Disadvantages:

Not suitable for large offices and companies due to the relatively low data transfer rate.
Cannot be attached to the wall due to the location of the antennas.

7. Wi-Fi Zyxel Keenetic Ultra II

The seventh place in the list of the best Wi-Fi routers is Zyxel Keenetic UltraII. With this router, the connection is made via a dedicated Ethernet line. The provider can use any connection, in particular PPTP, PPPoE, IPv4/IPv6, etc.

Regardless of the chosen type and nature of the load, users receive speeds up to 1000 Mbps or up to 1800 Mbps for IPoE/PPPoE. The presence of special ports allows you to organize a wireless network using a 3G, 4G, DSL modem, PON terminal with an Ethernet port or a Wi-Fi hotspot (private, from a provider).

✔ Benefits:

The device is equipped with NDMS 2 OS and a managed switch, so any connection can be combined.
dual band point WiFi access with signal power amplifiers and rotary antennas.
User-friendly interface allows you to customize automatic switching to a backup link in the event of a main network failure.
The dual-band network has WPA2 security for all used devices (laptops, PCs, tablets, smartphones, etc.).
Ability to create guest network separated from the main network.
The ability to distribute the load on the channel depending on the applications.

✘ Disadvantages:

Not high enough throughput wireless network, which makes the model unsuitable for large offices.
The model may become very hot.

Keenetic Ultra II is a router with a large Wi-Fi coverage that is ideal for medium-sized offices.

6. Asus RT-AC87U

ASUS RT-AC87U - a router with a large radius wifi activities and high data transfer rate. In the frequency range of 5 GHz, it reaches 1734 Mbps, and at 2.4 GHz - 600 Mbps. Total throughput network is 2334 Mbps, which is much faster than using standard 3-link routers.

The router is equipped with 4 antennas providing increased signal gain.

✔ Benefits:

The device can work effectively in Multi-user MIMO 4x4 mode.
Connected computers and gadgets receive top speed connections.
Powered by a powerful 2-core processor and provides high level performance.
An additional 2-core processor is used to implement 4x4 Wi-Fi mode, and the total throughput is increased by 50%.
Two USB port- standard 2.0 and high speed 3.0.
Coverage area - up to 465 m2.
Excellent value for money.

✘ Disadvantages:

Fairly large dimensions
Models can get very hot, so it is recommended to install them in a well-ventilated room.

The user will be able to evaluate the long guarantee period and the ability to use with a wide range of devices. The router is great for large rooms and buildings up to 465 m2.

5. D-Link DIR-890L

In fifth place is the powerful D-Link DIR-890L router - a bright representative of 2-band gigabit routers. It provides a high-quality connection of computers and other devices into a single network that provides access to broadband Internet. A feature of this router is support for SmartConnect1 technology, thanks to which the wireless connection speed increases to 3200 Mbps.

This equipment will be an excellent choice for multi-user operation in two independent wireless networks at once, operating in accordance with the 802.11ac standard. The parameters of each network will be up to 600 Mbps in 2.4 GHz and up to 1300 Mbps in 5 GHz.

✔ Benefits:

Wireless connection speed - up to 3200 Mbps.
The developers also took care of expanding the network coverage area by introducing the AC SmartBeam system into the device.
The router operates stably in two bands at once: 2.4 and 5 GHz.
Connecting to an Internet channel requires minimal user intervention.
Smart Connect technology selects the least congested frequency band and connects a new device automatically.

✘ Disadvantages:

High price. In terms of price-quality ratio, there are more interesting models.
The dual-core processor runs at only 1 GHz, while most modern routers have a 1.4 GHz main processor.

DIR-890L is the impeccable quality of the wireless network, the stability of the Wi-Fi connection and the maximum comfort of accessing the Internet through mobile devices.

4.Asus RT-AC88U

✔ Benefits:

Wi-Fi speed - up to 3167 Mbps.
4 antennas in a 4T4R configuration (4 transmit and 4 receive) provide a large coverage area.
Asus AiRadar beamforming technology for expanding Wi-Fi coverage.
Dual-core 1.4 GHz processor for high speed data transfer with USB connected devices.
USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports.
Transfer rate for wired network up to 2Gbps.

✘ Disadvantages:

Covers an area of no more than 180 square meters.
High price.

Ideal for offices and companies that need high-speed Internet that can withstand heavy loads.

3.TP Link Archer C5400

In third place in the top Wi-Fi routers is the innovative Archer C5400 router with Tri-Band technology. The latter is a real find for the organization of three-channel user networks. This model The router boasts a 25% faster data transfer rate thanks to NitroQAM support.

This is not just a router, but a real network center with big power, which allows you to perform various tasks without problems: watching HD videos, launching online games from several devices at once, etc.

✔ Benefits:

Speed up to 1000Mbps in 2.4GHz mode, 2167Mbps in 5GHz mode.
High speeds provide the fastest response even the most resource-intensive applications.
Archer C5400 works with embedded MU-MIMO technology, thanks to which 4 data streams function simultaneously.
8 antennas with Beamforming accurately locate gadgets and send them a powerful Wi-Fi signal.

1.4 GHz main processor and 3 co-processors allow you to work in multitasking mode.
Equipped with USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports.

✘ Disadvantages:

There are no shortcomings in terms of speed and performance level.
One of the shortcomings of the model can be called a rather voluminous case.

This is the best option for a router for offices, cafes, Internet centers, etc., providing connection a large number computers and other devices without sacrificing performance.

2. Asus BRT-AC828

Asus BRT-AC828 is rightfully considered one of the best WiFi routers for large offices, IT companies and TV companies. This is a powerful router with a long range, capable of withstanding very heavy loads.

✔ Benefits:

2 wired Gigabit Ethernet ports with bandwidth up to 2 Gbps.
Bandwidth of 4 wired ports in the local network - up to 4 Gbps.
High level of network protection equipped with a content filtering system.
Ability to work with 250 client devices at high speed simultaneously.
8 antennas in 4x4 configuration.
Wide WiFi coverage area.

✘ Disadvantages:

High price

The Asus BRT-AC828 model is perfect if you have a large company and many devices that need to be connected to a WiFi network.

1. Asus RT-AC 5300

ASUS RT-AC 5300 was recognized as the best Wi-Fi router according to BUSINESS-TELECOM in 2019. Equipped with NitroQAM technology, the router provides unprecedented speed wireless transmission data - up to 5334 Mbps! This is one of the most powerful routers you can find on the market today.

✔ Benefits:

An adaptive QoS feature that allows you to prioritize the use of a network connection.
Able to serve multiple client devices without lag. For example, its bandwidth allows you to transfer several streams of video in Full-HD format at once.
8 antennas provide a large coverage area.
Data transfer rate in 2.4 GHz mode - up to 1000 Mbps, in 5 GHz mode - up to 2167 Mbps.
Network load balancing technology between 3 channels.
Dual-core 1.4 GHz processor withstands high network load.
USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports
Ability to combine 2 wired network ports into one with high speed up to 2 Gbps.

At WiFi router Asus RT-AC5300 has no significant shortcomings. It is ideal for providing a wide and stable WiFi area in buildings, large offices, large TV and IT companies. We give it the first place in the ranking of the best WiFi routers for business.

Results

How to increase the Wi-Fi signal in the router settings?

If you have already bought and installed a router at home or in the office, and Wi-Fi does not catch everywhere you need, then you can try to strengthen the wireless network. How to do this, we will now consider. You can amplify the signal both using the settings in the router, and using separate devices and devices.

1 Search and change the channel on the router. If your devices see many networks of your neighbors available for connection, then all these networks can load the channel on which your network operates, and thereby reduce the range of the network.

You can try to set some kind of static channel in the router settings, or set it to Auto. Here you need to experiment. If you are not too lazy, then using the inSSIDer program you can find a freer channel and set it in your router settings.

I will not describe in detail, I just give you a link to the article. In it, I talked in detail about the channels, and how to find an unloaded channel. Also, there is an instruction for changing the channel on routers from different manufacturers.

2 We transfer our network to 802.11N mode of operation. As a rule, by default, on all routers, the wireless network operates in mixed mode b / g / n (11bgn mixed) . If you force the router to broadcast Wi-Fi in 802.11N mode, then this can increase not only the speed, but also the radius of Wi-Fi coverage (if your router has more than one antenna).

The only problem is that if you have older devices that do not support 802.11N mode, then they simply will not see your network. If you do not have old devices, then without hesitation switch your network to n mode. It is very easy to do this. We go into the router settings, usually at 192.168.1.1, or 192.168.0.1 ( detailed instructions at the entrance to the settings, see).

In the settings, open the tab where the wireless network is configured. They are usually called like this: Wi-Fi, Wireless mode, Wireless network, Wireless, etc. Find the item there Wireless network mode(Mode) and set in it N only. That is, the network only works in N mode.

For example: changing the wireless network mode on an Asus router

Save your settings and reboot your router. If you have problems connecting devices, then return the mixed mode back.

3 We check the transmission power in the router settings. On some routers, it is possible to set the power level wireless wifi networks. As far as I know, the default is maximum power. But, you can check.

V Asus routers, these settings are changed on the tab Wireless network - Professionally. At the very bottom, there is an item " Tx power control". There is a scale that can be adjusted as a percentage. It looks like this:

On Tp-Link routers, open the tab Wireless - Wireless Advanced. Paragraph Transmit Power allows you to adjust the signal strength. High value means maximum power.

These settings are more useful if you want to, on the contrary, reduce the signal strength of your Wi-Fi router.

How to increase the range of a Wi-Fi network using additional devices?

1 Installing a repeater, or setting up a second router in amplifier mode. Of all the recommendations that you will see here, or even find on the Internet, this method is the most effective and reliable. True, you will have to spend money on a repeater.

Ordinary routers can act as a repeater. Here are instructions for setting up ZyXEL and Asus routers in repeater mode:

If your Wi-Fi does not "finish off" to some rooms, then installing a repeater will solve this problem. And if you have a house with several floors, then you can install a router on the first floor, and a repeater on the second. Excellent and working design.

2 Changing the antennas of the router to more powerful ones. If your router has removable antennas, then you can buy more powerful ones, and thereby slightly increase the coverage of your network. Why a little? Yes, because replacing antennas usually does not work very well. good result. It is, but not such as to increase the radius by several rooms. In any case, you will have to spend money on antennas. And it seems to me that it is much better to spend this money on a repeater. Yes, it will cost more, but the benefits of it are much greater.

If you decide to change antennas, then take powerful ones with a gain of 8 dBi. But, they are expensive, and several of these antennas will cost as a repeater.

I already wrote, you can see the results.

3 Buying a new router, switching to 5 GHz. You can buy a more powerful, expensive router. And better, a router with support for the 5 GHz band. What is the advantage of the 5 GHz band? It is practically free, now most of all networks and other devices operate in the 2.4 GHz band. Less interference - more speed and more stable network operation.

There are places where the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network practically does not work. All the time buggy, the connection is lost, low speed etc. And all due to the fact that there are a lot of different networks. In such cases, switching to 5 GHz solves all problems.

But network coverage in the 5 GHz band will be less compared to the 2.4 GHz band. This is a feature of the 5 GHz frequency.

1 Choose the correct location for your router. In fact, it is very good and effective advice. As a rule, everyone sets up routers at the entrance, or in some distant rooms. The correct location of the router will allow you to correctly distribute the signal, thereby increasing the range of Wi-Fi.

Simply put, you need to install the router as close to the center of the house as possible. Yes, this does not always work out, since you need to lay a cable to the router, and pulling it to the middle of the house is not very convenient. But, even minor movements of the router can increase the network level in the rooms you need. And also, you need to remember that walls are the enemy of Wi-Fi networks.

2 Homemade amplifiers for Wi-Fi antennas. You can find many instructions that show the manufacture of amplifiers for the router. As a rule, this is ordinary foil, and cans. It turns out that if you put a sheet of foil on one side of the antenna, then the signal will bounce off it and go in the direction we need.

I think it's all nonsense. Firstly, a cut can of beer, or a piece of foil behind the router does not look very nice, and secondly, there is practically no effect from this. You can check.

Here are some tips. I think you have found a suitable way for yourself to increase the range of your Wi-Fi network. Share your tips in the comments!

For many potential buyers the choice of a router for home conditions comes down only to an affordable price and the number of gain antennas. After all, many users want the WiFi signal to be present in all rooms and work without failures. I wonder what IT experts think about this. From this article, the reader will learn how to choose in the market network equipment powerful WiFi router. Recommendations, reviews and Feedback from the owners will help the buyer decide on the acquisition.

Drive, hold, watch and see

In the world and domestic markets, in 99% of cases, buyers have led to the fact that buyers purchase equipment that, in fact, does not meet the tasks set. This fact is discovered after the purchase, so most people just put up with it. Network equipment experts offer to look at buying a router from a different angle.

Many users unreasonably believe that the main criterion that a powerful WiFi router for home has is the range. Naturally, devices with antennas attract the attention of buyers. But few people pay attention to the packaging of the router, where it is written in black and white that the device works according to the international standard ISO IEEE 802.11. It turns out that for all routers the range is the same: 150 meters in direct line of sight and 50 meters indoors.

Violation of consumer rights

It is logical to assume that it is a router with a powerful WiFi transmitter that is responsible for high-quality signal transmission over a long distance. Naturally, in expensive devices Is there a “correct” controller, and in the rest a fake? There is something in this. Indeed, on the market, especially in the budget class, there are few routers that can boast of a signal strength that can provide a high-quality signal through several brick walls. No more explanation needed, cheap routers with huge functionality and poor coverage do not match international standards ISO, which means they violate the laws of the country in which the implementation takes place.

Accordingly, the most powerful WiFi router that can be found on the market in the budget or corporate segment meets all the requirements. That's just the cost of such devices is too high and beyond the reach of many potential buyers.

Budget class resources

Devices presented in the inexpensive segment (up to 1000 rubles) are designed to organize a wireless and wired local area network within a room with a total area of not more than 100 m 2. High-quality signal transmission is guaranteed by the manufacturer only if there is only one barrier wall (similar to bearing brickwork). The representative of the inexpensive segment, a powerful WiFi router, is guaranteed to provide high-quality communication to all wireless devices within a radius of 25 meters for the 802.11n standard, or within a range of 50 meters for other technologies (a\b\c).

Experts recommend mounting a network device not near a computer, but placing it in the middle of a room (for example, in a corridor) for better coverage all rooms or offices. Do not install the router on the floor or attach it to the ceiling. The signal must have a field for reflection from surfaces, which means that the router must be placed at a height of about 1.6-2.2 meters.

Representatives of the inexpensive segment

In the budget class, there are not many devices that can really satisfy all the requirements of buyers. In addition to signal strength, users are also interested in functionality, so IT professionals recommend avoiding inexpensive Chinese solutions with hard-to-pronounce names (LioSan, Tenda, Netis) and trusting their choice with routers that have been proven over the years: TP-Link, D-Link, Belkin .

Any powerful WiFi router for the home from the budget class will provide the owner with the whole range functionality including excellent room coverage. Inexpensive devices are equipped with cheap wireless modules, so the signal quality directly depends on the placement of the router in the room. Experts recommend paying attention to the following devices when choosing: TP-Link TL-WR720N, Belkin Wireless N150 Router, D-Link DIR-615/A.

Business class segment

It is in the middle price category there are devices that do not require any additional measures from the user and provide the owner with a full range of functions at the same time with a guaranteed signal quality. Professionals recommend choosing the most powerful WiFi router for home among the brands ASUS, Zuxel, Linksys, TP-Link and D-Link, which are in the price range of 1500-4000 rubles.

None of the listed manufacturers will allow the user to doubt the quality of signal transmission through obstacles. Many owners in their reviews note that in apartment buildings, business class representatives create a wireless network within several apartments in the coverage area. By the way, a powerful WiFi router of this class should also have a decent data encryption system, because it is primarily focused on small and medium-sized businesses. All products of the company under the Zyxel brand in the Keenetic, TP-Link Archer, D-Link DIR-8xx series and ASUS RT series have proven themselves well in this category.

Representatives of the corporate segment

Do not forget about expensive equipment, which experts used to call professional. A powerful WiFi router for the office, following the corporate ideology, is chosen among specialized equipment. Brands such as Cisco, D-Link and Zyxel are known more among IT professionals. Many users find that wireless Apple solutions the corporate segment also belongs, but this is an erroneous opinion, because the American manufacturer has included the brand value in 50% of the equipment cost.

A powerful WiFi router for a cottage, a multi-storey building or an entire enterprise, from an expensive segment, has not only a huge range, but also a broadband coverage system. In most cases, the directional antennas that the router is equipped with are responsible for high-quality signal transmission. Also, all wireless devices are not single solutions, but are controlled by the host server computer.

Amplifying the signal on your own on any budget network device is subject to any user. To do this, it is enough to register the state “USA” in the settings of the router in the “Location” field using the control panel. The fact is that this state has its own laws, including requirements for signal strength (250 m line of sight and 75 meters indoors). By changing the settings and rebooting the device, you can see firsthand the improvement in signal strength.

A powerful home WiFi router that exceeds established ranges and interferes with the performance of other general purpose wireless networks may be seized by the government for violating the law. After all, in every country there is a service of radio frequency surveillance. In the CIS countries, this is practically not controlled, but in European countries, administrative punishment cannot be avoided.

Very skillful hands

To improve the signal within a large room, it is not at all necessary to buy a WiFi router with a strong signal from an expensive segment. Large costs can be avoided by creating a directional broadcast system at home. Behind the proud-sounding name are two half-liters from some kind of drink. Having cut off the bottom from the tin container, the user must put the can with a drinking neck on the antenna of the router.

Then it’s a matter of technology, the antennas need to be turned towards the receiver and adjusted to the correct angle. Using wireless module WiFi in personal computer, a reinforced concrete container is also put on it and sent by the cut part to the router.

Finally

As can be seen from the review, the concept of "powerful WiFi router" does not actually exist on the world market. The definition of “products of unscrupulous manufacturers” is more suitable here. You need a decent router - welcome to the corporate segment, the rest will have to use consumer goods, eliminating all the shortcomings of network equipment with their own hands. Alternatively, you can just put up with and enjoy an inexpensive purchase. In any case, the user will not be able to achieve a balance between quality and affordable cost, since these two criteria are directly proportional to each other.