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What to check before buying a Wi‑Fi router

Choose a router around your internet plan, home layout, device count, and comfort with setup—not only the headline speed.

Match the connection

Check whether your provider uses a separate modem or optical network terminal and whether the router supports the connection type. A fast wireless standard cannot fix a weak upstream connection.

Think about coverage

Placement, walls, interference, and antenna design affect real performance. A mesh system may be more useful than one powerful router in a long or multi-floor home.

Compare support

Look for firmware support, warranty, replacement policy, app quality, and security update history. These factors can matter long after the initial price.