Whether you own a retail shop or a small restaurant, owning a router is mandatory. It helps connect you with your customers in a fast and efficient way. The advancement in technology has brought forth hundreds of options to choose from. There are dual and triple-band routers that allow many networks to connect to them. This is important if you own a business that requires a separate internet connection.
There are many other factors to consider when buying a router for your small business. This post includes everything you need to know about buying routers. If that is not enough it also contains a compilation of the best routers for you. This is a one-stop solution to all your router needs. So, read carefully and weigh all your options before buying any product. A router plays an important role in managing your business’s online interactions. Pick the wrong one and watch it kill your business. Are you worried? There is no need to – we have you covered. So, without further ado, let us begin.
Quick Picks
Top Small Business Router Reviews
Wondering what your top choices are when it comes to a good small business router? Here is a look.
#1 – Synology RT2600AC Wi-Fi Router
- 1.7GHz Dual-core processor for fast, uncompromising performance
- Powerful 4x4 802.11ac wave 2 radios with MU-MIMO and up to 2.53Gbps breakthrough wireless speeds
- Smart Connect for seamless transition between maximum speed or range
Although more expensive than its predecessor, the RT1900AC, this phenomenal router is perfect. The cost is affordable than most, and buyers get a plethora of features to justify the price. This is the best wireless router for small business owners who want a fast router. With speed, they also get a comprehensive set of features. This router serves as a Network Storage Server when connected to an external hard drive. It allows businesses to share and stream content to their clients.
This router keeps the business running smoothly by connecting devices at higher speeds. For small businesses, it comes packed with security tools like intrusion prevention. The RT2600AC lets companies support remote workers. It does so by setting up a secure virtual server to access company systems. It supports multiple add-ons and can turn into a private cloud server anytime. For people who want to build a robust, uncompromisable network, this is the go-to router.
Pros
- Long-range
- Fast speed
- Hosts more than one broadband connection
- State of the art firmware
Cons
- No support to combine LAN ports
#2 – Linksys AC1200 Wi-Fi Router (EA6350)
- Provides up to 1,000 square feet of Wi-Fi coverage for 10 wireless devices
- Works with existing modem, simple setup through Linksys app
- Enjoy 4K HD streaming, gaming and more in high quality without buffering
Small businesses need a lot of flexibility to meet various demands. This Linksys small business router is one of the most reliable options in the market. It offers amazing 5GHz throughput speeds, four LAN ports, and many other features. For businesses that run a modest network, this is the best small business router. It is inexpensive and perfect for handling a small number of wired or wireless clients. It features a sleek black design with two non-removable antennas. The router sends wireless signals to each client instead of a broad spectrum.
The smart Wi-Fi console opens to a home screen with a simple, user-friendly interface. This screen displays all smart tools and router settings. Guest networking is available for up to 2.4GHz clients. The router lists all the connected devices and their status on the Device list page. This is a streaming router. For offices that need to stream content regularly, this is the safest and cheapest bet. Save time and money of replacing modems. This device works with any modem and the setup is simple using the Linksys app. It connects more than 12 devices providing a continuous connection for the office.
Pros
- 5GHz fast throughput
- Easy installation
- Includes LAN and USB ports
- Affordable
Cons
- No mounting brackets
- Non-removable antennas
#3 – NETGEAR R7800 Nighthawk X4S Wi-Fi Router
- Fast wifi performance: Get up to 2500 square feet wireless coverage with AC2600 speed (Dual band up to 800 + 1733 Mbps)....
- Recommended for up to 45 devices: Reliably stream videos, play games, surf the internet, and connect smart home devices.
- Wired Ethernet ports: plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, and other nearby wired devices with 4 x 1...
This is the best router for small business owners in terms of value for the price. This NETGEAR small business router is affordable still enables 4K content streaming. Thanks to its 1.7GHz processor, it receives ultimate Wi-Fi speeds. This is NETGEAR’s top-tier model seconded only by their 8000 series. It is a Wave 2 router (2nd Generation AC Wireless). This means it includes many features left out in the previous generation of products. One of which is the Multi-User-Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MU-MIMO). MU-MIMO technology gives it the flexibility to host three clients simultaneously. The only downside here is the router must recognize the clients as separate streams.
The black device comes with four removable external antennas. For people who want to increase the range, this is a great addition. If the business needs a wired router, the X4S may not be the best choice. This is not the best-wired router for small business owners because it is wireless. However, that does not compromise its functionality or performance. It can transfer data to many clients without compromising the bandwidth. Also, it works effortlessly on gaming PCs. So, this is a great router for gamers too.
Pros
- Excellent port selection
- Reliable management settings
- 5GHz MU-MIMO throughput
Cons
- Expensive
- Changing file transfer speeds
#4 – NETGEAR R9000 Nighthawk X10 Smart Wi-Fi Router
- Fast WIFI Performance: Get up to 2500 sq ft wireless coverage with AD7200 speed (Tri-band up to 800 + 1733 + 4600 Mbps -...
- Recommended Up to 45 Devised: Reliably stream videos, play games, surf the internet, and connect smart home devices
- WIRED ETHERNET PORTS: Plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, and other nearby wired devices with 6 x 1...
If speed is the priority, the NETGEAR Nighthawk X10 serves it in spades. This is by far the fastest router for media streaming delivering 802.11ac/ad Wi-Fi. It delivers consistent speed and coverage across any space. The X10 connects many Wi-Fi devices simultaneously without compromising the speed and bandwidth. This is a great option if a powerful wireless device to handle clients is the requirement. The X10 is a great solution for those who need fast storage solutions to their wireless router. It supports the 802.11ad wireless standard, featuring super-fast short-range wireless transfers.
This Smart Wi-Fi router is for people who want exceedingly fast wireless speeds. The Quad-Core processor gives combined wireless speed up to 7.2 Gbps. The X10 also features four external antennas designed to amplify signals. These antennas also maximize the range and throughput of the router. Another exciting feature is it works with Alexa. Add voice control to the router by connecting it to any Alexa device. The aggressive design including the innovative antennas makes it look fabulous. The only downside is its cost. This product costs more than any other router on this list. It comes packed with features, but it is only recommended to businesses who need it.
Pros
- Amazing 5GHz performance
- Attractive design
- Ultrafast wired connections
Cons
- Expensive
#5 – Linksys EA7500 Dual-Band Wi-Fi Router
- Provides up to 1,500 square feet of Wi-Fi coverage for 15plus wireless devices
- Works with existing modem, simple setup through Linksys App
- Enjoy 4K HD streaming, gaming and more in high quality without buffering
Linksys has always been a reliable name in wireless products. Their routers incorporate state-of-the-art technology and affordability. The routers are easy to install, robust, and secure. The same goes for the Linksys EA7500 router. The EA7500 is not a conventional router, it is smart, wireless, and powerful. It is easily configurable by common users to maximize performance. This exceptional router is what small businesses need to solve their routing problems. It has a small footprint and features a matte finish with a glossy center. The perforated surface makes this device ideal for gaming and heavy usage. The surface is well-ventilated to prevent it from heating up.
The EA7500 features wall mounting on the bottom. This makes it easier to raise it to the walls or ceilings for extended network coverage. The router includes three removable antennas and 4-Gigabit Ethernet ports. To configure the router settings, use any browser and enter the router’s IP address. An easy-to-use setup guide, including the step-by-step configuration process, will come up. Enter a name and a strong password to set up the router. Within minutes the router is up and running.
Pros
- Fast NAS performance
- 1,500 sq. ft. coverage for 15+ wireless devices
- Minimum system requirements
Cons
- Setup can get complicated
- A little expensive
Router For Small Business Buying Guide
If you own a small business, you will need a router to expand your reach. Routers may seem complicated but perform a simple task. The direct and send network traffic to the correct device. They perform functions like network address translation, providing a firewall, and providing Wi-Fi. But their primary objective is to route network traffic.
When buying a router for your small business, there are five considerable factors. Let us see what they are.
Speed
Business networks run on Gigabit speeds. So, make sure the device you choose has Gigabit Ethernet ports. Remember, if you are on a fiber connection, you will need gigabit ports. If you are on cable or ADSL, there is a lower possibility of needing gigabit ports. The key here is to know that router speed is all about the ports.
Number of LAN ports
These ports are your network’s connection to the internet. So, the number of LAN ports is important along with their speed. Most routers feature four LAN ports. But you can use network switches if you want more LAN ports. LAN ports run at a speed of 10/100 Mbps. Ethernet speed is enough for small businesses. But invest in a router that has at least four-gigabit ports.
Security
The router is your first line of defense against malicious attacks. Most routers nowadays feature a built-in firewall. They are generally enough to keep your network protected. However, if your business has compliance requirements go for higher-end products. These include full Unified Threat Management (UTM) essential for your business’s safety.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is important as it gives you flexibility. You can go anywhere in the building and remain connected to the network. This is a helpful feature that small businesses may opt for. If you consider a Wi-Fi connection, there are certain security standards to meet. Make sure the device is compatible with the minimum standards at least.
VPN Compatibility
VPNs or Virtual Private Networks work as security tools for businesses. A VPN keeps your data safe when in transit. It encrypts all your files and protects you from prying eyes. Some routers can handle VPN connections while most cannot. We recommend getting a good VPN router for small businesses.
A lot of factors go into consideration when buying a small business router. What we discussed above are only some of the important ones.
Frequently Asked Questions — FAQs
A router is a device that forwards data packets between different computer networks. It directs internet traffic to the right destinations.
In the simplest terms, static routing is manual and dynamic routing is automatic. Static routing involves the manual allocation of locations. Dynamic routing involves automatic or dynamically assigned locations. Static routing is possible for smaller networks. But as your business expands, you will need to switch to dynamic routing.
Conclusion
Now, your choice of a small business router has to be different than your home router. For one, you need better performance and security. You also need to know that several people will be using it at one point in time – and you need to ensure they can do it seamlessly.
No matter what business you run, a router is an essential piece of equipment in this age. It connects many networks and routes traffic to the correct destinations. Routers are a smart, efficient, and reliable way of routing traffic quickly.
Over the years, many high-end routers have entered the market. For instance, you have a choice between dual and triple band routers, Wi-Fi routers, VPN routers, and so on. It is easy to get blinded by all the features they have to offer. But we recommend sticking to what you need. Many factors determine the performance and quality of a router. These factors are important when buying a router. But the most important thing is to know your business’s requirements.
Combine the requirements into a checklist. Tick off the boxes when going through different routing options. The option that ticks maximum boxes based on your requirements, that is the router of your dreams.
In addition, we also recommend you to pay attention to best copier machine for small business.
Sources:
- The 8 Best Small Business Routers
- Cisco, Small Business Routers
- I need suggestions for the best small business router
- Small Business Router, 5 Best Models for Your Business
- Business Router 101
- How to Choose the Best Small Business Router
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