Several factors affect the speed and reliability of your internet connection. One of these factors is the type of data transfer technology you are using such as modems and routers. The fastest and most reliable internet connection, to date, can be achieved using fiber optics. You can take advantage of fiber optic’s capabilities by using an appropriate and top-performing router. You can get the best router for fiber optic internet from a range of prices.
What is Fiber Optic?
Fiber Optic is a broadband connection that uses strands of fiber made of plastic or glass to transmit information over long distances and at high speeds. The information being transmitted takes the form of pulses of light which allow fast transfers. A fiber optic internet service needs an optical network terminal (ONT) which serves as the modem so your device can connect to the internet.
Why do you need a Router?
The ONT of your fiber optic internet service has limits in the number of devices that can be connected to the internet, cannot reach all corners of large areas, and allows for only one public Internet Protocol (IP) address. A router is a networking device that can solve these shortcomings. Routers can connect multiple devices and manage data traffic between them by creating private networks. While connected to the internet, routers can enable these devices to access the same internet connection.
Best Router for fiber optic
The best router for fiber optic internet depends on your modem or ONT, your budget, and your intended use for it. There are routers that can give you the maximum network speed allowed by your fiber optic internet service provider, while there are some that ensure reliable connection for multiple devices at a low price.
Best Routers when you're on the budget
TP-Link AC1900 Archer A9 Smart Wi-Fi router
TP-Link routers are one of the cheapest but most quality routers on the market today. The TP-Link AC1900 Archer A9 is a Wi-Fi 5 router that provides speeds of up to 600-1,300 Mbps on the 2.4-5 GHz, respectively. Even though the latest router technology is Wi-Fi 6, Archer A9’s Wi-Fi 5 can already deliver high speeds to most devices without having to pay additional tens or hundreds of dollars. Its capabilities allow you to stream 4K videos and play video games on multiple devices.
Consider buying this best router for fiber optic when you are on a budget. If you are not yet planning to purchase new devices, opt for the Archer A9 because most laptops and phones already feature Wi-Fi 5.
TP-Link AX3000 Archer AX50 Wi-Fi 6 Smart router
Similar to the Archer A9, TP-Link’s AX50 is very affordable without diminishing the speed and reliability of the internet connection. Archer AX50 offers Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, which means that it provides optimum performance for newer gadgets that already have Wi-Fi 6.
In addition to its impressive performance, it also has an added feature where you can set a wake time to reduce the energy consumption of your devices. It also comes with anti-virus protection, and parental controls, and is compatible with Alexa and other virtual assistant technologies.
Best Routers of all time
ASUS RT-AX88U WIFi 6 Gaming Router
If money is not an issue for you, go for a high-end router that boasts warp speeds of up to 6,000 Mbps. ASUS RT-AX88U is a 4x4 dual-band Wi-Fi router that allows 1148 Mbps on the 2.4GHz and 4804 Mbps on the 5GHz band.
Being a Wi-Fi 6 router, RT-AX888U is the best router for fiber optic because it features an orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) and a multi-user, multiple-input, multiple-output (MU-MIMO) technology that provide seamless internet connection in heavy traffic uses.
D-Link EXO AC3000 Smart Mesh WiFi Router
This router is a tri-band WiFi with speeds of up to 400 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz, 866 Mbps on the 5 GHz, and 1733 Mbps on the 5 GHz band. It has a voice-based control that can work with Google Assistant and Alexa. It also features MU-MIMO technology that is compatible with multiple devices.
D-Link’s high-end WiFi router is perfect for gamers and smart-home owners who want to experience seamless information transfer and optimized internet performance. One additional feature that this router has is the integrated internet speed test that can measure the true speed of your fiber optic internet.
This router falls in the mid-range of best routers out there for fiber optic internet. The EXO AC3000 is best for those who want to balance performance and cost.
Google Nest WiFi
Introduced in 2019, the Google Nest WiFi is an improvement of its predecessor, the Google WiFi mesh system. For around $300, Google Nest WiFi includes a router and a single mesh Point that can cover up to 3,800 square feet and connect to around 200 gadgets. This means that no matter where you are in your home and whatever device you are using, you can enjoy fast and reliable internet. Like other routers, Google Nest WiFi has a dual-band system.
Setting up the Nest WiFi requires you to have a Google account and an application on your phone that can help you install the device as well as configure it. These routers can also double as Google Assistant speakers which can be convenient for people with large and expansive houses. They also come in different colors and have a very distinct aesthetic. Homeowners who follow strict minimalist design principles in their homes may opt for the Nest WiFi because of its sleek and clean design.
Conclusion
Picking the best router for fiber optic internet depends on your financial capacity, type of devices owned, and your intended use of the internet. With the numerous fiber optic routers appearing on the market lately, it is best to consider your specific needs and requirements so that you would not end up regretting your purchase in the end. Being smart in choosing the best router for fiber optic can provide you with uninterrupted streaming, gaming, or browsing of whatever you want from the internet.