Quick answer
For stable WiFi, choose a router that supports WiFi 6 (802.11ax) or newer, dual-band or tri-band, with enough LAN ports and mesh expansion capability. At home, one good router is usually enough, while in an office you should plan for multiple access points or a mesh system. Do not buy the cheapest model based only on the number of antennas.
How to recognize the problem
- WiFi disconnects or is slow in certain parts of the space
- Connection drops when multiple devices are on at the same time
- Signal is weak on another floor or in another room
- Router heats up or restarts by itself
- Older devices cannot connect to the 5 GHz network
Most common causes
Outdated WiFi standard
Routers with only WiFi 4 (802.11n) cannot deliver a stable connection with more devices. WiFi 5 (802.11ac) is the minimum today, and WiFi 6 (802.11ax) is recommended.
Insufficient number of LAN ports
If you connect a computer, printer, NAS, or TV to the router, a lack of ports forces you to use additional switches or WiFi for all devices.
Weak range and poor placement
A single router in the corner of an apartment or office cannot cover all rooms, especially through thick walls. Signal also weakens due to interference from neighboring networks.
Low number of simultaneous devices
Cheap routers have a limited number of clients and a weak processor, so the connection drops when multiple phones, laptops, and smart devices are active at the same time.
Lack of mesh support
Without mesh support, extending range with another router creates two separate networks or requires manual switching, which is not a stable solution.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Determine your needs and area
Before buying, measure the area of the space and the number of devices that will be connected. At home up to 80 m², one router is usually enough, while larger homes and offices over 100 m² require a mesh system or multiple access points.
- 2
Check the WiFi standard
Choose a router with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) or a newer standard, such as WiFi 6E or WiFi 7. WiFi 5 (802.11ac) is acceptable only if the budget is limited. Avoid models that support only 2.4 GHz.
- 3
Look for dual-band or tri-band
Dual-band routers operate on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Tri-band models have an additional 5 GHz or 6 GHz channel used for mesh communication or network offloading. For an office with multiple devices, tri-band is a better choice.
- 4
Check the number of LAN ports and speed
Make sure the router has enough gigabit LAN ports for your wired devices. If you have an internet speed greater than 1 Gbps, look for a model with a 2.5 Gb/s port.
- 5
Consider a mesh system
For larger spaces, choose a mesh system with at least two units. Mesh enables a single network name and automatic switching of devices to the nearest unit, without connection drops.
- 6
Check update support
Choose a brand that regularly releases security firmware updates. Look for information about the support period on the box or the manufacturer's website.
- 7
Place the router in the right spot
Place the router centrally, at height, away from metal objects, microwave ovens, and cordless phones. Avoid closed cabinets and basements.
- 8
Configure the network after purchase
Change the default network name, WiFi password, and administrator password. In the router settings, enable WPA2 or WPA3 security and, if needed, set up a separate guest network for visitors.
When to consider additional equipment
If you still have dead zones after buying a good router, add a mesh unit or an access point connected via network cable. For offices with more than 20 devices, consider a business router or a firewall device with a built-in WiFi controller. Always try with one device in a central location first, then add more if needed. Avoid buying multiple cheap routers and daisy-chaining them, as this creates an unstable network.
How to prevent it
- Regularly update the router firmware
- Place the router in a central and open location
- Use WPA2 or WPA3 security with a strong password
- Occasionally check who is connected to the network
When to call a professional
If you are not sure how many access points you need or how to connect a mesh system to your existing network, consult an IT expert. They can measure coverage and recommend equipment that suits your space and number of devices.
IT infrastructure maintenance · Servers, networks, backup, security and helpdeskFAQ
Is it better to buy a router with more antennas?
The number of antennas is not decisive. What matters more is the WiFi standard, the number of simultaneous devices, and the processor quality. A router with four antennas can be weaker than a dual-band model with two antennas if it uses an older standard.
How much does a good router for home cost?
Prices vary, but for a stable WiFi 6 router from the mid-range, you will pay more than for a basic model. Mesh systems are more expensive but solve the range problem in larger spaces.
Can I use an old router as a mesh unit?
Only if the manufacturer supports mesh with that model. Otherwise, you can use the old router as a regular access point connected by cable, but that is not the same as mesh.