Buyer's guide for Wi-Fi router

Before stepping out to buy a Wi-Fi router, there are a few things that you need to know...

*Do you need an ADSL router?
If your broadband connection is going to be from BSNL or MTNL, you will need an ADSL router which allows the telephone line to be used for internet browsing and voice calls at the same time. These routers come with an RJ11 port into which you can connect your phone cable. For use within the confines of a single room you will be well-served by the ADSL Wi-Fi routers that come from the service provider at a nominal fee. If you want more out of your router, read on... 

*Single or Dual band?
Single band Wi-Fi routers transmit data in the 2.4GHz range, while simultaneous dual band routers operate at 2.4GHz as well as 5GHz. While single-band routers are adequate for most users, those living in highly-populated areas might face signal interference from wireless routers in the vicinity - as well as from other devices such as microwave ovens and cordless phones that also operate in the 2.4GHz band. In such cases, a dual band router is recommended. It should be noted that while the 5GHz band is less used, its signals don't travel as well when compared to 2.4GHz. So if you're operating at 5GHz, you would have to stay closer to the router for better fidelity.

Internal or external antenna? In case you want Wi-Fi access in other rooms - through walls or glass partitions - opt for a router with one or more external antennas.

*Which devices?
Almost all tablets and phones specify if the device is Wi-Fi compliant, with no mention of whether they support just 2.4GHz signals or also 5GHz. For example, the Apple iPhone 4S, iPod touch, Blackberry Curve 9360, and Amazon Kindle support 2.4GHz only. On the other hand, the iPad, iPhone 5, Samsung Series 7 Slate and Motorola Xoom can work on the 5GHz band as well. So before spending extra on a dual-band router, check if your devices are equipped to handle 5GHz signals. 

*Do I need 802.11n?
This is the current standard in wireless networking. If you are purchasing a new router—single or dual band—go with an 802.11n router.

*What type of security?
WPA2 is the highest level of security in routers and is the recommended standard.

*Number of ports?
Most routers come with up to four Ethernet ports to connect PCs for shared internet access. The addition of USB ports means you can also connect external storage or a printer to the router, to be shared by devices on the network.

*What to buy?
Netgear, Cisco, D-Link Systems and Linksys are some popular manufacturers of Wi-Fi routers. Buying from any of these brands will more often than not guarantee good quality. Recommendations for ADSL: D-Link DSL-2750 U (Rs 2,700), Belkin N150 (Rs 2,400), Asus DSL-N 10E (Rs 2,100), Asus DSL-N 55U Dual Band (Rs 11,000). Recommendations for non-ADSL: Cisco Linksys E900 or E1200 (Rs 2,500-2,900), Cisco Linksys EA2700 or EA3500 Dual Band (Rs 8,300-10 ,500), Asus RT-N 56U (Rs 8,500), Netgear N600 or N900 Wireless Dual Band (Rs 10,000-14,000).