A router is a device that connects your home to the internet and distributes the WiFi signal to your devices. A good router can provide fast and reliable WiFi coverage throughout your home, as well as extra features like parental controls, guest networks, and security updates. But how do you know which router is right for you?

In this article, we will explain the main types of routers, the factors to consider when buying one, and some of the best models available in 2023.

There are two main types of routers: single-unit routers and mesh routers.

• Single-unit routers are the traditional type of routers that you plug into your modem to create a WiFi network. They usually have one or more antennas and several ports for wired connections. Depending on the size and layout of your home, a single-unit router may or may not be able to provide WiFi coverage in every room.
• Mesh routers are composed of multiple units that work together to create a large WiFi network. One unit connects to your modem and acts as the main router, while the other units are placed around your home and act as satellites. Mesh routers can extend the WiFi range and eliminate dead zones in larger or multi-story homes.

When shopping for a router, there are several factors to consider, such as:

• The speed of your internet plan. The speed of your internet is determined by your internet service provider (ISP), not by your router. However, you should choose a router that can handle the speed of your plan without slowing down or bottlenecking. The speed of a router is measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps), and it depends on the WiFi standard and band it supports.
• The WiFi standard. The WiFi standard is a set of protocols that define how a router communicates with wireless devices. The latest WiFi standard is WiFi 6 (also known as 802.11ax), which offers faster speeds, lower latency, and better efficiency than previous standards. WiFi 6 also supports more devices on a network without congestion or interference. However, to enjoy the benefits of WiFi 6, you need devices that are compatible with it. Older devices can still connect to a WiFi 6 router, but they will use the previous standards they support.
• The WiFi band. The WiFi band is the frequency range that a router uses to transmit data. There are two main bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band has a longer range but a lower speed, while the 5 GHz band has a shorter range but a higher speed. Some routers support both bands simultaneously (dual-band routers), while others support three bands (tri-band routers), adding an extra 5 GHz band for more capacity and performance.
• The coverage area. The coverage area is the distance and area that a router can provide WiFi signal to. The coverage area depends on several factors, such as the power and number of antennas, the WiFi standard and band, the layout and size of your home, and the interference from other devices or materials. Generally speaking, mesh routers offer better coverage than single-unit routers, especially in larger or multi-story homes.
• The ports and features. The ports and features are the extra options that a router offers for connectivity and functionality. Most routers have Ethernet ports that allow you to connect devices directly to the router with a cable for faster and more stable internet access. Some routers also have USB ports that let you connect external storage devices or printers to share files or print wirelessly. Additionally, some routers have features like parental controls, guest networks, security updates, quality of service (QoS), device prioritization, app control, voice control, and more.

Based on our research and reviews from various sources , here are some of the best routers for 2023: