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Best Router for Home Automation to Connect Your Smart Home

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If you want to create a smart home, the first step is to buy the best router for home automation because all your home automation devices will be controlled by it.

Smart home automation has brought a revolution in our life, there are hundreds of home automation devices available today that help us to manage our daily tasks in a much easier way than before.

To build your smart home, you need a perfect router that works as the brain of your network and provides a high-speed internet connection to all devices. A router is a device that connects your computer to the internet. It allows you to remotely access your home network, control multiple devices simultaneously, and transfer files between different computers. You can control your lights, switches, and other smart devices from a large distance.

You’ve been looking for a way to automate your home, but you’re confused about which router is the best choice. Home automation is becoming more and more popular, but setting up a home network can be confusing. There are so many different options out there, and each one claims to be the best. So it’s hard to know what will work best in your situation.

We have done extensive research on this topic and can help you find the perfect solution for your needs. We’ve reviewed some of the top routers and created a list of our favorite options.

Reviews of Best Router for Home Automation – Top 10 Picks

Routers are installed in every home, office, cafe, restaurant for several purposes. It is important to choose the best router according to your requirement, budget, and area. We’ve put together this handy guide to help you pick the premier router for your home automation needs.

Here are our recommended products:

NETGEAR is one of the best router for smart home. It is used to connect multiple computers to the internet wirelessly or using wired connections.

These routers range in speed. It provides the dual-band frequency feature that is very helpful for getting rid of interference. The router can send and receive data on two different frequencies at the same time. It will allow you to perform multiple tasks at a time without slowing down your internet speed.

For security, home routers can be equipped with different levels of firewalls. Some routers use 4 SSIDs linked to 4 separate VLANs providing Business-grade security. It’s linked with four distinct DHCP servers, which assign IP addresses for whole network segmentation.

Quality of service (QoS) technology helps you determine how much bandwidth your applications can use to avoid lag or latency problems and prioritize which device has access to the internet first. This router supports the latest Wi-Fi security, including WPA3 and QoS.

The gadget is capable of dedicating any SSID to 2.4GHz devices to prevent congestion. It provides a strong Wi-Fi signal throughout a 4,000 sq. ft. house, and up to 40 devices at a time can connect to it.

You can access the Insight web portal from any internet-connected device to set up, manage and monitor the network. This ensures that your home is always connected and secure wherever you go.

A remote management subscription for 1-year gives you access to 24/7 tech support from Cisco, as well as any software updates for this unit that may be released. This model offers up to an ultrafast AX1800 speed, which is up to 1.8 Gbps. It is fast enough for all of your devices.

Due to Wi-Fi 6 technology, it provides uninterrupted streaming, HD video gaming, and web conferencing. In addition, the Expandable Mesh system allows you to add more satellites (4) around the house for a total of up to 10,000 sq. ft. of coverage.

Moreover, the ultrafast AX1800 (up to 1.8Gbps) gigabit speeds allow fast download and upload, so you can connect faster than ever. With the help of 3 Gigabit Ethernet ports, the router allows the user to hardwire computers, game consoles, streaming devices, etc. Any internet connection speed up to 1Gbps, including cable, satellite, fiber, and DSL, is supported with this router.

The Securifi Almond router is a wireless AC router that uses advanced Beamforming technology to deliver high-speed Wi-Fi throughout your home. It has a built-in range extender and can connect and extend the range of any wireless router.

You will like that this router takes 3 minutes to set up using an App. It is as easy as 1, 2, and 3! All you need is a mobile device with Wi-Fi, and it does not even need to be connected to the router. There is a built-in Long Range touchscreen that guides you through the setup process.

Another special feature of this device is that it is a home automation hub. It can control your lights, locks, thermostats, and more using its own mobile app Almond. It also uses Cisco’s IOS, the most widely used operating system in the world.

Also, it has two frequency band classes, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. 5 GHz is used for high-speed data transfer, and 2.4 GHz is mainly used to transfer data to wireless devices like remote controls and sensors, making it the best router for 2.4 GHz smart home. Moreover, it uses the WPA2-PSK security protocol. This is the reason you can securely connect any device to your Wi-Fi network.

Thanks to the router’s five ports, you can now connect printers, external hard drives, etc. In addition, it has three LAN ports with a bandwidth of 10/100/1000, which are Gigabit Ports. Gigabit ports are more than 10 times faster than normal Ethernet ports.

We love that you can experience a high data transfer rate of 1750 Megabits per second with this product. Although the router’s operating system mainly uses this data transfer, i.e., Cisco IOS, it can also be used by users to transfer large amounts of data wirelessly.

Furthermore, it is capable of providing long-range Wi-Fi, which covers up to 5,000 square feet. This means you don’t need to worry about dead spots in your house. Two powerful antennas provide long-range Wi-Fi and amplifiers for extending the signal strength.

Overall, this router can be used as a regular Wi-Fi router, range extender, and wireless bridge at the same time using Almond iOS and Android apps which makes it a best dedicated router for home automation. It also works as an access point. With these free apps, you can receive alerts when your doors or windows open or close and also can control lights, locks, or thermostats from anywhere.

This TP-Link AX1800 router is our favorite smart router because it comes with Alexa built into it so, you can control your Wi-Fi network with a voice assistant. Just say, “Alexa, turn on my guest network,” and the guest network will be turned on. You can also check your internet speed or control your lights with voice commands

Additionally, it is a dual-frequency band router. It provides higher bandwidth and flexibility for your home network. The 5 GHz radio band has up to 43% better performance at only 18% of the 2.4 GHz radio band. It has Wi-Fi 6, plus it also supports previous Wi-Fi standards, including 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11b, and 802.11g.

Most people like that the router helps protect your network with the latest security protocols, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Personal, WPA-Personal, and WEP. It comes with 5 Ethernet ports to connect wired devices. In addition, there is 1 LAN port and 4 additional ports for connecting wired devices.

One of the great features of this thing is that it provides up to 1.8 Gbps of the total available bandwidth with an aggregate speed of 1200 Mbps from the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands and offers a theoretical maximum data transfer rate of 1200 Megabits per Second

Being a JD power award winner and highest customer satisfaction for wireless routers in 2017 and 2019 proves that it’s one of the best routers for smart homeson the market. It also has an above-average price point, which may be due to its high quality.

Besides that, the product has blazing-fast Wi-Fi speeds up to 1.8 Gbps (1200 Mbps on 5 GHz band and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz band), which allow you to watch 4K video, play online games without lagging, transfer large files in seconds, have a smooth internet experience with multiple devices, etc.

Revolutionary OFDMA technology is a new wireless-networking standard that increases the efficiency of spectrum use, allowing you to connect more wireless devices without slowing down or interfering with your network. Archer AX1800 provides reliable Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home.

Also, it provides the next generation of Wi-Fi with high throughput and long-range. Beams can be directed at individual devices or groups of devices for stronger signals to reach every room in your home. It also has advanced beamforming to improve your network’s bandwidth.

Thanks to a powerful 1.5GHz quad-core processor, the highest quality performance ensures faster speeds for all of your online activities. Furthermore, the manufacturer is giving the users a stronger and more stable signal 360 degrees around the router. In addition, four antennas provide a stronger and more stable connection for all your devices.

An advanced front-end module (FEM) chipset improves wireless performance by strengthening the signal between your router and connected devices. This router is compatible with all internet service providers such as AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity, Spectrum, RCN, Cox, Century Link, Frontier, etc.

TP-Link Deco X20 is a next-generation Wi-Fi 6 whole-home mesh system and one of the best router for IoT devices. It is the evolution of today’s fast Wi-Fi 5 (AC). It is designed to provide Gigabit Wi-Fi speeds (AX100) throughout the home and has a maximum coverage of 5800 square feet.

In certain circumstances, such as a very large home, the router may need to be placed in an optimal location to provide seamless service. One of the best features is that it eliminates dead zones and provides a strong wireless signal throughout your home.

Each Deco X20 comes with two Gigabit Ethernet ports (six in all for a three-pack) and wired backhaul support for improved speeds, this means that you can either connect an Ethernet cable to it or you can create a mesh network with the other Deco X20s. All of them can also be used as Wi-Fi routers. You can also easily connect up to 150 devices which is way better than the old Wi-Fi booster we had.

It’s extremely easy to install and connect with your smartphone/tablet with having iOS 9.0 or later, Android 4.4 or later. You also have the option to use a web-based interface if you don’t want to install the app. You can also easily control this device with Amazon Alexa. It easily blocks specific devices and creates a guest network to give visitors limited internet access.

Moreover, the router shall be used with any internet provider (ISP). It gives a quality internet connection from one of the following providers: Uverse, Xfinity, Spectrum, RCN, Cox, Century Link, and Frontier. If you don’t have access to a modem, most internet providers will require one and it is suitable for all internet plans up to 1 Gbps.

TP-Link’s Homecare app gives you the ability to monitor and control the following:

– Virus/malware protection: virus and malware alerts and scans, intelligent antivirus.

– Web filter: You can easily monitor and restrict the internet usage of your children.

– Parental controls: Restricting certain websites, scheduling of time to use the internet, and filtering of content.

– QoS: Prioritization of devices and bandwidth allocation among multiple devices.

– Traffic monitor: See real-time traffic usage.

– Connection alert: Get alerts for new devices or discontinued connections.

We loved that the router is capable of receiving super-fast wireless AC speeds up to 3x faster than standard wireless N. With data rates at a whopping 6,600 Mbps, you can stream HD and 4K Ultra-HD video with virtually no delays, play online games with minimal lag time, and chat with family and friends using Skype or other VoIP services without worrying about bandwidth.

Including two Gigabit Ethernet ports, it enables lightning-fast wired connections to other devices for optimal performance. This sleek and compact satellite is designed to plug directly into a wall outlet without blocking the adjacent power outlet. It easily fits in any room and turns an existing electrical outlet into a high-speed Wi-Fi hotspot.

Glad to know that the product improves your existing internet by covering your home with a strong, dedicated SURFboard mAX Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System that delivers the ultimate wireless experience. It’s designed with multiple devices (up to 150 devices) in mind and can also be placed outdoors as a range extender to expand your Wi-Fi coverage even further. It’s a great solution for large homes providing speed up to 5,500 sq ft.

High-bandwidth applications can now be run at up to 400 percent faster speeds and with increased range than before thanks to the Wi-Fi 6 standard; this speed is much better than the old Wi-Fi 5 system. It is compatible with all internet connections; however, a separate modem must be purchased.

You will be amazed that the frequency band class of this best Wi-Fi router for smart home is a triple band so that three independent express lanes are created using a single band exclusively for connecting routers, one for connecting 5 GHz that run at fast speed and a second for connecting 2.4 GHz devices that run at a slower speed.

The manufacturer will walk you through the process of setting up and maintaining your network by step-by-step instructions. All devices connected to the network are shown in one dashboard after the app has been set up. Weighing just 6.03 pounds, you can carry or move it from room to room with ease.

The ARRIS G36 Cable Modem Router has a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port that creates multi-gigabit networking which means you can connect more devices and allow gamers, online streamers, to enjoy speeds of up to 3000 when it works at top speed.

FOUR additional 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports are perfect for in-home HD video streaming. This router lets you connect your HDTV, game console, Blu-Ray player, DVR, Network Attached Storage device, and other devices to your home network.

Due to DOCSIS 3.1 Modem, the user can download anything at a speed of 6.5 Gbps and Upload 1.4 Gbps, which is a high speed a whole lot higher than the previous download and upload speeds of 3.0 Cable Modems. It’s ideal for cable internet speeds up to 1.2 gigabits per second (Gbps).

Also, the Wi-Fi 6 (AX3000) is the latest Wi-Fi technology, with a higher capacity and speed than ever before, using 10nm routers and chipsets; the router can support 4×4 MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output), pairing multiple antennae to carry and receive data at the same time, thereby increasing overall speed and capacity. The result is a faster connection that can handle more devices accessing it simultaneously without slowing down or breaking up.

Fortunately, this dedicated router for home automation is compatible with Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, and many others. But cant support AT&T, Verizon systems, Century Link, or other DSL or Fiber internet providers.

SURFboard Central is a new app available in the Google Play and iOS app stores, making it easy to set up your Wi-Fi network and configure advanced settings. The app also delivers a robust reporting engine to help you with your mobile and Wi-Fi management.

Amazon eero is one of the best router for smart home 2021 comes with 3 packs. Two eero 6 extenders have USB-C type power and one eero 6 routers that possess USB-C type power, and 2 auto-sensing Giga ports. These auto-sensing Giga ports can be used for either ethernet or a USB device.

Because of Wi-Fi 6 technology, the router is faster than ever before. It can handle 75 plus connected devices and deliver reliable coverage throughout your home on every Wi-Fi band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and have a 5000 sq. ft coverage area with a lightning speed of 500 Mbps for wireless connections. Wired connections have more speed up to 900 Mbps because of Gigabit Ethernet ports.

With this smart router, users can now stream and play 4K videos, online games, and more simultaneously without any issues. Also, it provides a backup power source to keep you connected all the time and also reduce buffering.

Besides all that, it has a built-in Zigbee Smart Home Hub, which allows you to link your network’s compatible devices. Then, you just give voice commands through Amazon Alexa, which will help you to control all the smart devices.

The setup is easy as it takes a few minutes to get the router up and running. Just download the app, set up your router by entering your password, then follow on-screen instructions that will lead you to the final step of connecting all your devices to your network and you can contact customer service 7 days a week at any time and receive a free repair or replacement if you’re not satisfied

Automatic updates provide the most up-to-date and best Wi-Fi technology while also maintaining your network safe and secure so you can enjoy the benefits of a connected world. In addition, you may readily add eero devices as your needs change because of cross-compatible hardware.

This product has got excellence in the automation field, due to which it is awarded JD Power Award and is on the higher ranks as far customer satisfaction is concerned for best wireless routers 2017 and 2019, so one can say that it is also the best modem router combo for smart home.

 Devices with operating system Microsoft Windows 98SE, NT, 2000, XP, Vista or Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1/10, MAC OS, NetWare, UNIX, or Linux are compatible with this product. Also, that system with 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g Wireless type can connect with the router.

The Dual-Band Frequency which provides you with the fastest speed connectivity has 1750 Mbps high-speed internet, with 450mbps speed for systems having 2.4GHz frequency range, and those who have 5GHz of frequency can enjoy 1300 Mbps. of speed.

Because of the Gigabit Router’s four 4Gbps LAN ports, users may quickly access multiple connected devices, and it’s a solid gaming router that doesn’t require a lot of space. The USB port has an integrated Media Server that allows you to simply share your USB drive content.

On the other hand, TP-Link Tether app can be used on your smartphone to do some basics like turning off/on Guest Wi-Fi, Smart LED control, and even to see the internet speed. It has an easy installation process that can be done in a few steps, and even a layman can do the setup, there is an installation guide provided along with the package.

Most people like this device because it is 11ac Wi-Fi Router which means that you get faster Wi-Fi technology. The universal IoT HUB is one of its key features as it is compatible with a wide range of home appliances and smart devices such as IP cameras, doorbells, power switches, lights, sprinklers, door locks, or curtains that can be controlled by smartphones or tablets ( iOS and Android ).

The ZigBee module built into the unit enables users to control ZigBee-based smart devices directly with android and apple phones and computers. It has a 2.4G/5GHz Wi-Fi repeater that enables users to run a wireless network anywhere they like. Also, the infrared module allows you to utilize the router as an all-purpose infrared blaster.

ASRock Router has multi-sensors that are compatible with IFTTT (If This, Then That), which can be used to monitor environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, illuminance, and air quality. The router can be used with a Philips HUE white ambiance wireless lighting system to create your desired atmosphere.

Supporting three distinct cloud services, which are P2P with AES128 Encryption, IoT, Infrared support list database, you can search, download and share lists of infrared codes with other ASRock Router users. The advanced Transnational Remote Control System (TRCS) protocol can control devices from different manufacturers in a single remote controller.

Google Wi-Fi is an upgradeable, adaptable mesh Wi-Fi system that keeps buffering at bay and provides reliable coverage throughout your house so that you can do what you love even in the far corners and upstairs.

As it replaces your current router by beaming your wireless signal up to two more additional access points, so the extra points add to your network, ensures that the connection remains fast in every space.

Covering up to 4,500 square feet of space, the Wi-Fi points are sleek and stylish. It intelligently manages the complexity of your Wi-Fi so you may enjoy movies and videos without problems.

With the help of the Google Home app, you can go through your network settings or pause the Wi-Fi for each device, and you can develop your network by setting up profiles or managing it through different users. Parental controls are also included for extra security so you can pause the Wi-Fi on kids’ devices, check their online time or block specific websites.

You may create a guest network that you can share with guests that allows them to access the internet, but not your files and devices. It works with all Google Wi-Fi hubs and may be used to join any existing Nest Wi-Fi network. If you need more coverage, simply add more points.

Another important thing to mention is sustainable design, which is responsible for electrical and thermal efficiency. The majority of the plastic part weight is comprised of recycled material, accounting for 49% of the total input weight making it one of the best modem router combos for the smart home.

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Conclusion

Home automation has become the latest trend in the industry. Many people want to use smart devices so they can control things that matter most to them. The router is the main element in the system because it is responsible for connectivity. When you are buying your router, you need to be very careful because some technical difficulties might arise.

We hope that now you have all the information about the Best Router for Home Automation and you can take a crucial decision. If you like this article, please share it with your friends.