Wireless Network Buying Guide
Wireless Network Buying Guide
Buying Home Networking Equipment

Key considerations for purchasing home networking equipment:
- Your network is only as strong as its weakest link. Match networking products to your device capabilities and broadband speed, and consider upgrading your router every 2-3 years.
- Choose products suited to your needs. For 4K streaming or online gaming, opt for a high-performance wireless-AC router.
- ISP-provided routers often lack the latest technology. Upgrade if your network struggles with current demands.
- More connected devices require more bands (frequencies). Adding bands reduces lag caused by congestion.
Understanding Wireless Speeds and Standards
Speeds and Standards

Wireless standards define speed and functionality. Devices older than 2-3 years may not support the latest technologies.
- Wireless G: Speeds up to 54Mbps, ideal for basic browsing and small downloads.
- Wireless N: Up to 600Mbps on single or dual bands, suitable for streaming and medium-sized downloads.
- Wireless-AC: Speeds up to 1Gbps with tri-band options, perfect for gamers and high-quality streaming.
Types of Home Wireless Networking
Modem Routers

Modem routers act as the bridge between the Internet and your home network, combining modem, router, and access point in one device.
- Save on ISP rental fees by buying your own modem router with advanced hardware for better performance.
- For busy networks, choose dual or tri-band models to avoid data congestion.
- Premium modem routers support ADSL, VDSL, cable, and fibre connections, offering flexible setups.
Routers

Routers wirelessly connect your devices to your home network. They must connect to a modem via Ethernet for Internet access.
- Choose a router tailored to your needs. Gamers may prefer high-end models with AC1600 or better technology.
- Third-party routers often provide faster speeds, greater range, and more control than ISP equipment.
- Perfect for cable or fibre broadband, routers enable wireless sharing of Internet and content across devices.
Whole Home Networking

Whole Home Networking devices extend strong WiFi throughout your home.
- Enjoy seamless, high-strength WiFi coverage in every corner of your home.
- Many devices connect to smartphone apps for easy control and monitoring.
- Simple to set up, these systems represent the future of home wireless technology.
Adapters

Wireless and powerline adapters connect non-wireless devices to your network.
- Wireless adapters enable non-wireless devices to connect via USB ports.
- Powerline adapters use your home’s electrical wiring to extend your network range.
- Affordable and effective, powerline adapters are ideal for areas with wireless interference.
Ethernet Switches

Ethernet switches create fast, reliable wired connections, ideal when WiFi fails.
- Add multiple Ethernet ports to your router to connect more devices.
- Choose a switch with enough ports for your needs.
- Ensure the switch’s speed matches your router and devices for optimal performance.
WiFi Extenders

WiFi extenders eliminate dead zones and improve connections in areas with interference.
- Ensure the extender matches your router’s capabilities, especially for wireless-AC speeds.
- Check the extender’s range to cover large homes or outdoor areas.
- Look for models with Gigabit Ethernet or USB ports for added functionality.
Home Wireless Networking Features
Security Features

Modern networking products include features to safeguard your devices and data.
- Set passwords and offer guest access to secure your network.
- Parental controls help restrict access to unsuitable content.
- MAC filtering blocks unauthorised devices from accessing your network.
Other Features to Look Out For

Advanced features can enhance your network’s performance and versatility.
- MU-MIMO: Maintains high bandwidth for multiple devices by communicating simultaneously.
- USB Ports: Connect and share data with printers and external storage devices wirelessly.
- Beamforming: Focuses signals directly on devices for stronger, more reliable connections.
Home Wireless Networking Essentials
Printers

Connect a wireless printer to your network for cable-free access from multiple devices.
Storage

Attach external storage to your router to create centralised NAS (network-attached storage).