[ad_1]
An old router may compromise the performance of all devices connected to the network, although they are of last generation. Malicious users could also exploit their vulnerabilities to access the entire network and steal sensitive information. For these reasons, it would be preferable to periodically check if your router conforms to current technology standards .
In addition to the type of connectivity and bandwidth provided by the Internet Service Provider (ISP), there are various characteristics to badyze. Below we have listed the main aspects to take into account to check that a router has not become obsolete
Wi-Fi
The Wi -Fi is fundamental in a network. Smartphones, laptops and tablets are always connected. It would be better then to have a router able to support all this traffic on the WLAN.
Concerning the performance of the wireless network, it is necessary to check the norm 802.11 . On this basis, you can understand what kind of Wi-Fi is supported. Currently, it is recommended to go beyond the 802.11n standard. For optimal performance, it would be preferable to point to an AC router of the type that supports the standard 802.11ac .
Instead, it is not recommended to use a router that only supports WPA. They are still used today, but to avoid attacks, at least one router supporting WPA2 would be needed .
Currently, the standard WPA3 has been certified, which will soon be implemented. If your router already supports WPA2 and is gigabit, you can wait for this implementation before changing it.
LAN
The interface LAN of a router is the "engine of life" "of the entire network. switches, access points and other devices all depend on its speed .If the router is Fast Ethernet (100Mbps max.), It means that the set the network will go up to 100Mbps .No matter that the switch is gigabit, it is the router "bottleneck"
In order not to compromise the performance, it would be better to opt for a router gigabit (1000 Mbps) On the other hand, if you have special speed requirements, you may consider a router with 10G ports (10,000 Mbps).
Firmware [19659017] The firmware of a router must be kept in consideration for two reasons: security and compatibility Updates p to fix bugs and vulnerabilities. Thanks to them, you will have a more and more efficient router.
If the manufacturer has long since stopped updating your router, the first thing to do is to check that it supports a third-party firmware
. By connecting to this page (https://wiki.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Supported_Devices), you can for example see if your router is supported by DD-WRT a firmware well known free third party which is updated periodically.
This software could make you think about buying a new router. If it is available, updates the router . Otherwise, replace it
Firewall
The Router Firewall is essential for managing network security . All permissions related to SMB, FTP, and other protocols in transit over the network must be managed accurately and specifically for maximum security.
This requires a router with an advanced firewall. You need NAT rules firewall rules and other routing parameters to configure an ad hoc network. It is always good to evaluate this aspect before buying a new router
VPN support
The VPN in a router (Virtual Private Network) is now a standard. For accessing your network from anywhere in the world a VPN is required. Many devices can create VPN servers . However, it would be better if the router manages this service.
In view of a future IoT a VPN is essential in all areas of use, whether in business or home.
Also QoS (Quality of Services) is now essential in a router. The bandwidth is low (that of the ISP) and the amount of data generated by IoT devices is quite large. In summary, it is easy to have high latency .
To better manage the network flow, it would be better for the router to integrate the service QoS . With this, you can manage the download and download of all devices, giving priority to the most important network packets . In doing so, network performance will certainly be smoother and more efficient.
Final Considerations
This guide tells you if the time has come to replace an old router. If you decide to change it, you can choose one by using our router's buying guide. Alternatively, you can follow the link of Amazon below to bring an excellent welcome.
Tom's Recommend
The AC MikroTik hAP router is a great product, in case you should buy a new one.
Source link
