There are so many tasks you’ll likely want to perform online without having to worry about WiFi signal strength or having to move closer to your router. There’s nothing worse than uploading something you’ve worked on for hours and then having your connection randomly cut out. This is why you’re likely considering investing in a range extender and you want to make sure you’re making the best possible choice. Having a stable far-reaching network will basically give you the freedom to do anything you want at all times without having to move directly towards the source. The TP-Link RE210 is one of the best functioning routers that allows you to do exactly what we described here and will serve you over the long run.

Our Overview Of The RE210

We thought it was an interesting offer feature wise but we were more interested in the practical day to day usage aspect hence that’s what we focused our attention on. If you’d like to know about the technical features, the main noteworthy features are its support for 802.11ac on 5GHz, basically translating to a maximum speed of 450 Mbps. If you find yourself downloading plenty of content or uploading your work frequently, this is something you’ll appreciate although it does have its limits.

In terms of transmission range, 802.11ac is pretty much impossible to beat irrespective of the type of network you’re on. The best speeds are obviously within close by distances, but it hardly gets faster than what this extender can offer you. The basic gist of it is that the closer you are the faster the speed will be.

There’s one internal and two external antennas responsible for making this work hence when you take in consideration it’s far more affordable than comparable extenders (which utilize the same tech), it’s worth the investment.

The main socket is pass-through so you can pretty much set it up anywhere you see fit. We recommend doing it somewhere central because it’s going to increase your overall reach. There’s an additional Ethernet port you can utilize if you want to and although most devices are wireless-ready, there are still some that you can connect using this port including consoles, players or TVs. Even if the majority of your devices don’t have wireless capability, you can still connect them using a simple hub that extends this feature. The RE210 AC750 is certainly capable of handling multiple devices with ease.

Design

Appearance wise, this isn’t the most appealing extender and there are similarly priced extenders which utilize touch screen features so they do have it beat here. This is because there are 2 external antennas although this matters not if you value performance over everything. If appearance isn’t your main priority and you just want something that works this is it.
If you want to see how it performs you can run some simple tests by separating your main router and the TP-LINK RE210 AC750 Universal Wireless Dual Band Range Extender just to see how effective it is. We generally concluded that it’s not lagging, the signal strength remains stable even at farther distances (although the speeds drop) and it takes minutes to install properly.

Downside?

Keep in mind that the main disadvantage to using the RE210 AC750 is not that different to most extenders – speeds tend to drop the further away you are from your router. If you’re 10 feet away it could take half the time to download the same movie as it would if you were 50 feet away.

We don’t recommend it for big offices or places over 3000 sq. ft (it will cover all the dead spots though) as well as for people who plan to do mass uploading. However, lighter tasks are handled with ease. The signal will remain strong and in our case we found it can handle 4K YouTube videos without buffering constantly. It was a decent connection, nothing too outlandish.

Conclusion

When you open the box initially it’s going to remind you of an Apple product – the TP-LINK RE210 AC750 Universal Wireless Dual Band Range Extender is neatly packaged and it looks great. The exterior is clear/rounded and it barely takes a few minutes to set everything up. If your main concern is improving your current wireless connection at home or even connecting devices that don’t have these features (using the Ethernet port) you’ll be covered so it’s well worth the investment.

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Picture the most beautiful place in the world. See the beautiful trees, and feel the perfect breeze on your face as you hear peaceful strands of sound. Now imagine there’s no Wi-Fi there at all.

It kind of ruins the picture, doesn’t it? Wi-Fi is something that almost all of us use on a regular daily basis, and notice when it’s not available. It’s even worse when it just doesn’t work. A lot of public wireless routers don’t offer internet access to mobile devices, and even if they did, you’re likely sharing it with a dozen other people. You deserve better.

Take your freedom back. We’re here to tell you that there’s a much better way, and it’s probably less expensive than you current internet plan. Even if it’s cheaper, there’s a good chance that it doesn’t provide as much value as Karma Go pay as you go Wi-Fi. Let me explain.

Simplicity and Ease for This Modern Age

We’ve all got demands on our internet connections. Whether we need reliable connection, high bandwidth, or fast downloading speeds we’re often forced to compromise. The worst part of all, is that it’s usually based on price – but there’s more.

There’s another limiting aspect; that of location. How are we ever supposed to use our internet plans when we spend a lot of our time away from home? We’ve either got to spend even more money for a mobile plan, or simply do without Wi-Fi when we really want it. But there’s a solution.

It’s simpler than you might imagine. Much simpler actually; the Karma Go gives you immediate access to reliable internet with the push of a button. No, that’s not a cliché, it’s actually a single power button, and you’re online. It gets better, too.

Your Karma Go is ingenious. This tiny device – completely wireless, to boot – is small enough to sit in the palm of your hand. Better yet, it’s durable enough to carry around in a backpack, purse, or even the glove compartment of your car. It’s perfect for traveling with your family.

In fact, you can take it anywhere. It’s a high-speed wireless internet device that runs nationwide on 4G LTE networks. No boundaries.

Always There When You Need It

Your Karma Go is a versatile, reliable device. If you’ve ever owned any of the portable USB wireless internet devices, you know how spotty they can be, especially if you live in a rural area. Even in the city, there are complications. With so many people using basic internet sources, your bandwidth and internet speeds can be limited dramatically at different times. Stop making those compromises.

Internet service providers have always had the power. Using Karma Go is like turning the odds to your favor in multiple casino games, because it gives you constant access to Wi-Fi. No more mobile bundle plans.

The Karma Go is perfect for the office. You can connect up to eight devices at the same time on a single W-Fi network. This is unbelievably helpful. Instead of paying hundreds of dollars on a wireless router, you can use Karma Go for all of your needs.

It’s also a great household device. Put away the messy cords and cheap routers with bad connection qualities. It’s fast, too.

Even the upload speeds are incredible. On 4G LTE, you have a steady download speed of 8Mbps up to 25Mbps, and it’s improving all the time. You can upload at 2-3Mbps, too.

The CDMA speeds aren’t bad, either, with an average download speed of 1Mbps. You can’t go wrong.

Amazing Coverage and Pricing

The pricing plan is straightforward. No hidden fees, and no expired data. It’s a pay as you go system that offers $14 for every GB that you use, so you always know what to expect. Not bad for nationwide US coverage.

They’ll even reward you for using their service. Most companies charge you a ton of money, and have no problem racking up bills of thousands of dollars when you go over them. Karma Go is different. Using social bandwidth, you can allow others to connect to your Karma Go, and you’ll receive unlimited free data by doing so. It’s really a dream product.

We’re raving fans of the Karma Go. For anyone who uses mobile devices away from home, the advantages are obvious. With such a handy, sleek device that offers so much quality data usage, you’re really pampered by their service. We recommend everyone has one.

From the standpoint of a business person who uses the internet every day, you’re really in luck. No matter where you are in the US, you’ve always got Wi-Fi. Imagine never having to call your internet provider to move your service to another location, and never worrying about roaming charges. Here’s to your Karma Go.

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Modems leases from your internet provider are generally bad news. You’ve got to lease them out for an annual fee (usually hundreds of dollars), and then they limit your experience. If you’re on a budget, you definitely don’t want to waste your time with one of those. Here’s a solution.

No, it won’t cost more than a monthly lease. But yes, it is better, and is likely of higher quality of the one you may already own as well. Let me explain.

Introducing the Netgear high speed DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem

It’s a modem unlike any other. Although there are many modems similar to the Netgear CM400-1AZNAS DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem, this is the most up to date version, offering the best value to the consumer. Let’s discuss some of the advantages.

First of all, the DOCSIS technology that’s used in this modem is an entire eight times faster than the previous model, 2.0. It’s not that 2.0 was bad at all. There have been some dramatic changes in internet usage in the past five years, leading to many problems that most modems can’t handle. Here’s an example.

If you live in a city of 10,000 or more, there’s going to be a massive amount of people using internet in that area. The last thing you want is a slow modem jamming up the works. DOCSIS is CableLabs certified for U.S. cable internet services, making it an ideal solution to this problem. But there’s more.

You can live in a rural area and have internet problems. Since there are so few internet towers in those areas, there are still typically thousands and thousands of other people using that internet source. DOCSIS 3.0 saves the day again.

You may still be wondering if it’s right for you. Consider that the Netgear CM400-1AZNAS Cable Modem is compatible with all of the major cable internet providers. The only exclusion is that it doesn’t work with cable bundled voice services.

The Netgear CM400-1AZNAS even connects to XFINITY automatically.

Better Value at a Lower Price

Keeping costs down is not the only concern. The fact of the matter is that your internet provider is making a killing by leasing out modems to their customers at a way higher price than they’re worth. The modems they provide are actually quite cheap.

Again, it’s just not a worthy deal. Stop throwing good money after bad, and get a modem that fits your purposes, and isn’t costing you an arm and a leg every year. Why waste the extra cash?

This isn’t a finance course, so let’s stick to the point. Replacing your modem with the Netgear CM400-1AZNAS DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem is like giving yourself an instant raise. You may have actually forgotten you were paying for this lease, which is part of the bad deal. You never notice it, so you keep on paying. Let’s put an end to that.

Let’s do the math. A typical lease on a modem can cost up to $120 a year. It should last about five or six years, which makes a total of about $600 on average. That’s a lot of money, when you add it up.

In fact, it’s ten times more expensive than the Netgear High Speed DOCSIS 3.0 Modem, and only gives you a minor fraction of the performance year in and year out. Think of the savings!

Plain and simple, it’s worth more than what you’re paying now for inferior quality.

Enjoy HD and High-Impact Gaming at Higher Speeds

Want to stream HD movies? It’s a high probability that as soon as you do, you notice some of the major problems associated with streaming any type of video online. It’s super slow!

Games are no better. If you want the most out of your gaming experience, you’ve got to have high internet speeds. Lag time just is not acceptable.

Get more out of your internet speeds with the Netgear CM400-1AZNAS DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem. You may not believe it, but this exact modem delivers the fastest possible cable internet speeds, due to its 8×4 channel bonding.

This is a fancy way of saying that even when the maximum amount of people are using a single internet source for that area, yours will have the fastest speeds. But that’s not all.

It’s faster in every way. With the 8×4 channel bonding, you get top speed out of your internet connection whether you’re downloading or uploading data. You’ve got 8 downstream channels, and 4 for upstream. But as if it that weren’t enough, this next benefit packs quite a punch on its own.

As you know, even your router speed is dictated by your modem. That is, unless you are using a modem with a massive GB Ethernet port like the one on the Netgear CM400-1AZNAS Cable Modem has. This is a huge increase of wired internet speeds for any conventional modem.

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With the ingenuity of the Sengled Boost LED Bulb, you can say goodbye to internet black zones in your home. The range of your Wi-Fi is increased with each bulb you connect. And quite simply, more bulbs means more places to enjoy your experience without worrying about slower speeds.

Not forgetting, they are great at illumination too, so effectively, they kill 2 birds with one stone. The Boost affords Wi-Fi where you want and need it, combined with high-efficiency, dimmable LED light.

Each bulb you connect will increase your Wi-Fi range, ending internet dead zones forever. Enjoy your music, shows, and movies from almost anywhere in your home together with an iOS app for Wi-Fi setup and lighting control to keep your areas bright. It’s available in PAR38, A60/19, and BR30, bulb types.

How it Works

Say goodbye to internet dead zones for good. Boost gives you Wi-Fi anywhere you want, combined with dimmable, high-efficiency, LED light. Boost securely increases your Wi-Fi network range so that you can enjoy your music, shows, and movies from almost anywhere in your house – along with an iOS/Android app for lighting control and easy setup.

Boost extends the range of your Wi-Fi signal to more than 100 feet with line of sight by connecting wirelessly to your home router.

Tech Specs

• Supports 802.11 b/g/n @ 2.4GHz with 2×2 MIMO antenna array
• Security modes: 64/128 bit WPA-PSK/WPS2-PSK, WPA/WPA2
• Encryption modes: WEP64/WEP128/TKIP/AES
• 35 meters of range with near line of sight
• iOS/Android app for Wi-Fi set up and lighting control
• LED A19, BR30, and PAR38 integrated with Wi-Fi repeater
• Boost will connect wirelessly to home router/gateway and increase the Wi-Fi signals to areas of the home where signal is weak

Features

Aside from the Boost LED Bulb being designed to extend the range of your home’s wireless network, it also provides 350 lumens of brightness, with a built-in Wi-Fi repeater that ensures the elimination of Internet black zones. Simply pop the bulb in and pair it with your network using the Sengled app on your smartphone (iOS/ Android), and even when the bulb is switched off, it’ll begin working its Wi-Fi magic.

Withholding the extra functionality, Sengled LEDs are dimmable through the Sengled app, but unfortunately, like most smart bulbs, not yet compatible with in-wall dimmer switches. While major third-party partners or integrations have not been announced, nothing’s been ruled out, either at this stage.

The new GU10-shaped Boost LED requires only 9 watts max to shine its light and boost your Wi-Fi, and same as the rest of the Sengled lineup, glows at a soft white color temperature of 2,700K. Availability is still unspecified, but we’ll definitely keep our eye out for this as the year progresses.

There are a large number and variety of smart light bulbs on the market, each one different. Belkin’s WeMo Smart LED bulbs, for example, can be controlled using IFTTT recipes, while Philips’ Hue changes colors. But these differences are all focused around the concept that a light bulbs’ only function is—to light up!

Sengled, the smart-lighting company, is taking a unique approach. While their bulbs can be controlled with an app, dimmed precisely, scheduled, and more; Sengled bulbs deliver more than just a lighting experience: they are multi-functional. One has a built-in webcam, speaker, and microphone, while another doubles as a speaker.

Sengled’s Boost bulb is a combination Wi-Fi range extender plus dimmable LED. Simply plug the Boost into any standard light socket, connect it to your Wi-Fi router, and say goodbye to dead spots, while brightening that dark corner of the room.

The Boost gives you up to 100 feet of additional Wi-Fi range, according to the company, and depending on how many extra Boosts you plug in, each will extend your signal further. The cost for Boost is $50 per single bulb, and you can use the Sengled app to control both the set up to Wi-Fi extender, and light functionality.

We’ve seen a substantial amount of elaborate, connected LED lightbulbs come on the market recently. Some allow control of color and dimming, some are speakers, but all of them required one vital thing: being connected. So, if you have areas of your home where you get non-existent signal from your router, tough luck.

Fortunately, there are always ways to combat this. There are Wi-Fi repeaters that can be set up to boost your router, which allow Wi-Fi to rooms or floors that your main router simply can’t reach. What’s required is to set up another piece of equipment in another room, but of course, having another piece of equipment lying around gathering dust could be an inconvenience. Wouldn’t it be great to have a repeater that could hide in plain site? Or even plain light?

Verdict

The solution: Boost, by Sengled, is a really good one. It’s an LED lightbulb with a Wi-Fi repeater built in. Twist it into a normal household lamp (A19 bulb standard, and a few others for spots and floods), download the app (smartphones Android and iOS), and run it through a fairly child-proof setup process to connect it to your network at home. Hey Presto! You now have Wi-Fi extended through your entire house. It’s even dimmable (via the app).

The real test of a connected device like this is how easy it can be to set up and simply forget about. We ordered it for ourselves and we were able to install and set up within 5 minutes. The bonus now is – we don’t even think about it. Our devices connect through the bulb when we’re in the far half of our house, without us even having to think about it. No muss, no fuss, brilliant!

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The signal strength and overall latency of your home or office network can be improved in a simple and effective way by investing in a high quality Wi-Fi range extender. These devices work effortlessly to eliminate any dead-zones or black spots in your network by boosting and repeating the signal wherever you need it.

One of the latest to be released is the Linksys AC750 BOOST Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE6300). It’s equipped with the essential features that keep your network running smoothly, no matter where you require a strong Wi-Fi signal. Whether you have a large home, or a lot of infrastructure in the way, the RE3600 clears up all of the dead-zones, and is incredible easy to setup and install.

Compatability

The Linksys AC750 BOOST Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE6300) is compatible with all routers that are out there. It can achieve a signal strength to populate up to 6500 square feet with a strong Wi-Fi signal. Although it’s not weather resistant itself, this little device can boost your signal outdoors, upstairs, downstairs, etc. – basically anywhere, as long as it can be plugged into an available outlet.

Very Easy to Use

Whether you have a wealth of knowledge about networking and computers, or you know very little, Linksys has made the setup of the AC750 BOOST and easy task. All you need to do is press the “push button connect” function and it will automatically sync to your router or access point. After it’s syned, remove the extender from the outlet you set it up at, and move it to anywhere in your home or office where dead spots need to be eliminated. If done correctly, the small LED will emit a green glow to let you know that the signal is great. If you see the LED turn to an amber color, you’ll need to place it a little bit closer to your router or access point.

Additionally, you can utilize Linksys’s own “spot finder technology” to use your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to check the location of your extender. This is a browser based application that gives you a clear insight as to the distance from the router to your extender.

System Requirements

As with anything new that you add to your computer or network, it’s very important to check the compatibility. The Linksys AC750 BOOST Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE6300) requires an 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless router or access point to connect and sync to. Since it’s backwards compatible with just about every router that’s out there, there usually isn’t any trouble with setup. Along with a decent router, you’ll need an AC power outlet to plug the unit into, as well as a Wi-Fi enabled PC, Mac, smartphone, or tablet with the your favorite internet browser.

Uninterrupted Signal

Since the AC750 BOOST range extender uses dual bands, you’ll never have to worry about interruptions when you’re using your network to it’s full potential. Suitable for streaming, video gaming, uploading, or downloading, this little device uses “crossband technology” to achieve incredibly fast data transfer rates up to N300 + AC433 Mbps.

Beamforming

Linksys integrated a snazzy feature known as “beamforming technology” to help focus and strengthen any weak signal on your network. It will increase the efficiency by enabling multiple clients to enjoy high-bandwidth activities at the same time. Streaming, gaming, uploading, and downloading on multiple devices won’t lag down the network to a crawl. Beamforming works in a way to prioritize certain devices that need the signal the most.

Wired Connection

Equiped with a Gigabit Ethernet port, the Linksys AC750 BOOST Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE6300) makes it easy to connect any wired device into the unit itself. Located on the underside is this port that’s often used when Gigabit transfer speeds are a necessity. Devices like smart TVs, Blu Ray players, IP security cameras, or certain gaming consoles may suck up bandwidth like no other. Some people prefer a wired connection in these scenarios, so Linksys made sure it was equiped with one. With it, you can enjoy data transfer speeds up to 10 times faster than any fast Ethernet port out there.

Final Thoughts

Improving the speeds and latency of your home or office network is now simple and very possible with the small investment that’s required to own this wonderful gadget. Priced on Amazon.com for $89.99, the Linksys AC750 BOOST Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE6300) can work wonders for a network that is struggling to provide all the available bandwidth and signal strength that you require. Setup is a breeze, and configuration takes a matter of minutes – you literally just need to plug it in, press a button to sync to your network, and you’re good to go. The compatibility is all there as it works with old and new routers, so you won’t have to update all of your hardware to make sure everything works together.

It’s nice to see some of the latest technology come from Linksys at such a good price-point. The investment it’ll take to get the Linksys AC750 BOOST Wi-Fi Range Extender (RE6300) working on your network is very little compared to the amount of efficiency it can boost for those who enjoys blazing fast speeds.

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Wireless access at your home or office is an important technology that deserves a lot of attention. The need for a super-fast, reliable WiFi connection is a necessity for most individuals since our lives are now more connected than ever. One of most important factors when it comes to your network, is the hardware and infrastructure that it’s made up of. Particularly, the wireless router or access point needs to be performing to it’s best ability in order to provide a fast and hassle-free connection.

When it comes to your router, we recommend going with AC3200 Tri-Band technology since this gives way for reliable and incredibly fast speeds to multiple devices on your network. We took it upon ourselves to seek out and test, review, and report on a few great options for those who want the best AC3200 Tri-Band WiFi Router for their money. We found several top-performers from a wide range of manufacturers, and were surprisingly impressed with the available features and performance they had to offer.

NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3200 Tri-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router (R8000)

• The NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 delivers wireless connection speeds up to 3.2 Gbps while utilizing three bands of WiFi, perfect for households with multiple connected devices at all times.
• Inside is a 1 GHz dual core processor that constantly keeps things running smoothly at all times, even high intensity, face paced video games that are always demanding quick performance.
• Utilizes “Dynamic” QoS” bandwidth prioritization so you have the keen ability to control a list of all of your connected devices and give them each a position of importance. If you have a device that you hardly use, keep it towards the bottom of the list. Your more important devices like your tablets or smartphones can be prioritized towards the top if needed.
• Six external antennas amplify the wireless signal throughout your home through thick walls and ceilings. Although obstructions can dampen the reach, a router with more antennas and amplification power will always do it’s best to fill your space with a strong WiFi signal.
• Integrated USB 3.0 port located on the back side for installing your own storage device. This way, you’ll have a centralized storage area that you can store, share, and save files to and from.
• Comes included with “ReadySHARE”, an application that provides you with automatic scheduled backups for all of of the Windows PCs on the network.
• Using “Smart Connect”, the router will automatically select which WiFi band is best for each device. It can even connect slower and faster devices in a separate WiFi network. This makes sure that all the bands are being used to their full extent.
• Sold optionally with a 1 TB external hard drive or a cable modem built in for an additional upgrade price.

D-Link AC3200 Ultra Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router (DIR-890L/R)

• The D-Link AC3200 Ultra Tri-Band Wi-Fi Router is another prime choice that’s designed to boost wireless performance and connection reliability using the latest advanced networking technologies. Ideal for large home or office use, it has the range you need, with the speeds you crave.
• Utilizes 3 simultaneous bands to deliver speeds up to 3.2 Gbps throughout multiple channels (600N on 2.4GHz + 1300Mpbs + 1300Mpbs on 5GHz).
• On the first band of 2.4 GHz, you’ll typically want to keep this channel for the simple stuff such as web surfing, skyping, printer sharing, etc. The next two bands of 5 GHz are ideal for high definition media streaming, online gaming, and multiple connected devices.
• Equipped with a 1 GHz Dual Core Processor that keeps things running fast and super efficient.
• Delivers smarter bandwidth by prioritizing the fastest available wireless signal for every device that was connected first. This way, you won’t ever experience slower speeds due to more devices joining onto the network over time. Although there’s plenty of available speeds for multiple devices, this is a nice feature to keep your most important devices as a priority.
• Uses “Smart Beam Forming” to improve the signal coverage throughout the structure of your home or office. It will direct the bandwidth in an efficient matter so you experience the same connection speeds regardless of infrastructural obstacles.
• Equipped with 6 high performance antennas that make way for a stronger WiFi network with less poor signal areas than ever before.

ASUS RT-AC3200 Tri-Band Wireless Gigabit Router

• The ultra-fast and highly rated ASUS RT-AC3200 Tri-Band Wireless Gigabit Router is another great option for those looking for top of the line performance from a trustworthy brand.
• Delivers a combined data transfer rate of 3.2 Gbps using the “Tri-Band Smart Connect” feature. It’s an intelligent system that chooses the appropriate band based on the current demands and abilities of your network.
• Integrated USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports for easily connecting external storage drives or other peripherals like printers or fax machines that don’t have wireless capabilities.
• Showcases Asus’s own “ASUSWRT” graphical interface that gives users a wide array of abilities to configure and customize. You’ll have an in-depth GUI to the back-end settings and network preferences.
• Easy to use and configure. Asus advertises a famous “30 Second Setup” that’ll have your new router setup and running without any hassles.
• Comes preloaded with network security settings and privacy protection thanks to Trend Micro’s software “AiProtection”. It also gives parents the ability to adjust filters and age restrictions for certain devices on your network.
• Comes included with a generous 2 year North American warranty that offers free shipping on any returns and 24/7 technical support that’s readily available for live troubleshooting if need be.

TP-LINK AC3200 Tri-Band Wireless Gigabit Wi-Fi Router (Archer C3200)

• Built to stream, surf, and game with exceptional speeds, the TP-LINK AC3200 Tri-Band Wireless Gigabit Wi-Fi Router provides lag-free connection with reliable coverage and fantastic range.
• Uses “Tri-Band” to deliver up to 3.2 Gbps of combined speeds on one 2.4 Ghz channel, and two other 5 Ghz channels.
• Comes standard with advanced security settings through WPA/WPA2 encryption that protects your privacy and keeps intruders out of your network.
• With the ability to create an easy to use guest network, you can keep the visitors at your home on a completely different network than your main home network. Perfect for businesses that need two networks that are securely separated from each other.
• Included is the famous, industry leading two year manufacturers warranty that keeps it protected and guaranteed for the first 24 months of ownership. Pair this with the 24/7 technical support and you’ll always have a representative available to communicate with you in case of any troubleshooting.
• Equipped with a 1 Ghz dual core processor and 3 co-processors that keep the network running smoothly and lag free for all hours of the day.
• Two external USB ports, one with 2.0 and one with 3.0.
• 6 external antennas provide a constant flow of WiFi coverage in an organized and uniformed pattern for ample coverage in all directions.

Linksys AC3200 Tri-Band Smart Wi-Fi Router (EA9200-4A)

• With a price tag under $200, the Linksys AC3200 Tri-Band Smart Wi-Fi Router is an affordable option that shouldn’t be overlooked.
• Utilizes “Tri-Band” technology to deliver fast speeds up to 3.2 Gbps. With an integrated 1 Ghz dual-core processor, it’s speed is comparable to similar models that cost as much as $100 more.
• Equipped with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting several wired devices at once. There’s also two USB ports that offer the latest 3.0 version, making it easy to attach any media or data you’d like to share over your network.
• Use Linksys’s own “Smart WiFi Software” to monitor and control your network from anywhere at anytime. It’s an app that you install on your smartphone so you can always have your network at your fingertips. With it, you can adjust parental controls, create passwords, check speeds, prioritize devices, and a multitude of different configurations.
• Built with 6 antennas – three of them are internal, the other three are external.
• Uses “Beamforming Technology” to create a stronger signal that’s catered toward specific devices, instead of only sending out a strong wireless signal in every direction. It’s a technology that boost efficiency to deliver better coverage and further range.

The post 5 Best AC3200 Tri-Band WiFi Routers for 2016 appeared first on Nerd Techy.

When it comes to your wireless network, investing in a high quality, top-performing router from a reputable brand is essential if you want the fastest speeds, best coverage, and most security. Asus has been a leader in the networking industry and they’ve proven it yet again with their latest release, the RT-AC5300 Gaming Router. It’s new to the market and packed with some fantastic features that boost speeds, improve security, and improve the overall access and experience of your network. Ideal for gaming, it’s equipped with the most advanced technologies to make your experience latency-free for multiple devices at once.

Speed and Hardware

Since the Asus RT-AC5300 Tri-Band Wireless Gaming Router utilizes the latest 4×4 802.11ac MU-MIMO technology, it’s ready for a combined data rate of 5334 Mbps to offer plenty of insane speeds to every device connected to your network. Equipped with a 1.4 GHz dual core processor and 512 MB of RAM, it won’t have any issues with efficiency or transfer speeds.

Asus designed the RT-AC5300 to outperform anything that’s currently on the market, making it a top choice for 2016. Thanks to NitroQAM Technology, users will experience a seamless experience without any buffering. Whether you’re streaming your favorite movies or playing your favorite game on the highest settings, the combined transfer speeds of 5334 Mbps offers a 67% faster improvement over the previous generation tri-band. Additionally, it’s also built with an internal game accelerator that automatically optimizes the wireless signal to lower the ping time by 30 to 60% and make way for minimal packet loss with 70 to 90% efficiency. This technology will optimize the route in which your signal is received and make sure that there’s always a proper connection without having to deal with poor signals or dropped connections.

Cross-Platform

Nowadays, most networks are made up of multiple connected devices that are often based on different operating system and/or platforms. The Asus RT-AC5300 Tri-Band Wireless Gaming Router was built with cross-platform compatibility so every feature will work equally well whether you’re on Windows, Mac, Linux, or your favorite Game Console. Even smartphones and tablets are able to benefit from all of the exciting features that the RT-AC5300 has in store.

Adaptive QoS

You can tell that Asus made this router with hardcore gamers in mind. With Adaptive QoS, you’ll get an extra boost in your gaming bandwidth so that you can prioritize certain packets over others. With it, you can turn on “Solo Mode” which will give full dedication to the game at play. This makes the perfect solution for gaming in areas of your home where the signal is far from the router and your game is the top priority.

Security

Thanks to AiProtection powered by Trend Micro, you’re always safe from threats that would normally leave your devices vulnerable to hackers and infections. It combines a multiple array of features that includes parental controls, malicious website blocking, and automatic vulnerability detection. It’s enterprise-level security that comes standard and built in right out of the box. Additionally, the parental controls give you access to monitor and restrict internet use for any user that’s using the network. This way, your children’s devices can be easily configured to automatically block adult websites or content that you never want them to come into contact with. It also filters out certain restricted apps that have no business being installed by your children. And best of all, you can setup intuitive time scheduling to configure time restrictions for certain devices.

Link Aggregation

Asus added a really cool feature that can significantly upgrade data transfer speeds called “Link Aggregation”. With it, you can use two Gigabit Ethernet cables (one in each port) to connect to any network attached storage device that has this feature unlocked. It gives you faster transmission speeds that are no less than 1 Gigabit and no more than 2 Gigabits. This significant speed upgrade isn’t available on all network attached storage devices, but if it’s available on yours, this is a great thing to take advantage of.

Coverage

The wireless coverage is absolutely fantastic thanks to eight massive antennas that are setup to improve the signal range and stability. Four antennas are dedicated to receive, and the four other are dedicated to transmit. These antennas are large and quite obvious, but give the router a godlike appearance that’s ready to impress. Additionally, there’s a technology called “AiRadar” that “beam forms” your WiFi signal so it can handle large obstructions that may be between your device/computer and your router. Overall, it makes for a clearer, stronger, and more reliable signal in all areas of your home or office.

ASUSWRT Software

Asus equipped the RT-AC5300 with their own “ASUSWRT” software interface that gives you the in-depth controls of your network right at your fingertips. This makes the initial setup process a breeze by offering a dashboard interface of all the configurations you’re able to work with. From a basic network map to advanced LAN, WAN, IPv6, AiProtection settings and more, you’re given total control over how your network is configured.

Sharing Center

The RT-AC5300 makes it easy to share and connect all sorts of peripherals to enable things like file sharing, printer sharing, 3G/4G sharing, and backups. Since there’s a USB 3.0 and a USB 2.0 port, just about any device has the ability to directly connect onto your network for devices on your network to use. The most common use for these USB ports are printers and hard drives. Since both a hard drive and a printer can be connected via USB simultaneously, it can add a significant upgrade to your overall home or office network layout.

What’s Included?

There are a few additional accessories that come included in the box when you purchase it. The quick start guide will give you a brief run-down of what needs to be done to get the router up and running for the first time. There’s a support CD that includes the user manual and utility application for manual configurations and setup. Also, an RJ-45 network cable, power adapter, and the external detachable antennas are all included. One last key piece is included and that’s the warranty card. Asus covers their product with a generous 2 year warranty period and offers 24/7 technical support in case you have any trouble setting it up for the first time.

Overall Thoughts

The Asus RT-AC5300 Tri-Band Wireless Gaming Router has a lot going for it. With incredibly fast speeds, fantastic security, and a wide range of useful features, you can add a significant upgrade to your home or office network by investing in this router. It’s no secret that it’s quite expensive, but there are plenty of ways to justify the somewhat steep price tag. As a top pick for 2016 and one of the fastest and most incredible gaming routers we’ve ever laid eyes on, we highly recommend it to anyone that requires the fastest network speeds.

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Your internet connection can be a tricky thing and when you need access, a hard wire, Ethernet connection is often preferred. Since a strong connection is often required for most situations, it can sometimes seem nearly impossible to connect smart televisions, streaming media players, game consoles, and other devices without the best connection. However, popular leader in the networking industry, Netgear has released new technology that enables you to use your existing electrical wiring to extend and deliver Internet access to any area of your home. Since many of our electronics now require the fastest speeds possible, making sure your connection is strong and reliable can ensure you won’t experience lag or latency issues when you’re enjoying home entertainment.

Even small homes can experience WiFi dead zones that can be frustrating and downright troublesome if you’re trying to enjoy your favorite content. Expanding your WiFi with the Netgear Powerline 1000 is the perfect solution for connecting devices that need the best bandwidth to perform as expected. When a poor WiFi signal is the problem, your devices may not be able to reach the router on their own due to their location. With it, you can transform the available WiFi to give the extension in range that you need so you won’t ever have to deal with lag or slow speeds.

Ideal for demanding media like 4k high definition video streaming and online gaming, the Powerline 1000 by Netgear is easy to use and configure right out of the box. No computer or network engineering background is needed. All you need to is plug the Powerline adapter into your modem or router. This will begin to transmit your signal to wherever you’d like so you’ll just need to simply plug in the Powerline WiFi adapter into an outlet in whichever area of your house that you need a better signal. It has the ability to send a signal through floors and walls, but the less between the adapter and the device, the better.

What’s great about setting it up is that you don’t need to install, setup, or configure any software. It’s fully plug and play and built to perform flawlessly right out of the box. And if you have any issues or need additional help, you always have the option to contact Netgear’s 24 hour, 7 day a week support line at anytime through their website.

With 1000 Megabits per second and Homeplug AV2 support, the Powerline 1000 is the perfect choice for connecting a wide range of electronic devices that require WiFi. The latest 4k streaming media players all require that the bandwidth be up to par, as do all of the latest smart TVs that are on the market. If you have a weak signal, you won’t even be able to enjoy these new devices how they’re meant to be enjoyed.

For small, medium, or larger homes, the Netgear Powerline 1000 can be of great use for several rooms or areas of the house. In fact, if you need additional coverage or you live in a mansion, take note that you can expand your network with up to eight (8) Powerline 1000 adapters. This way, there’s really no excuse for poor WiFi anymore as it’s ability to expand is quite nice.

As far as security goes, Netgear is no new manufacturer, they’ve integrated push and secure ability so all you need to do is push a button and your signal is completely encrypted. The encryption is an extra layer of security that protects your network from potential threats like hackers and unwanted guests.

Energy efficiency has always been a concern for many households. You’ll likely want some sort of assurance that this adapter won’t drain your utility bills and increase them substantially. However, when the Powerline 1000 isn’t in use, it doesn’t use energy. When it detects that the signal isn’t being used, it will power down to automatically and go into a sort of hibernation until it’s needed at a later time.

Overall Thoughts

We all know how frustrating it can be to have to constantly deal with a poor or weak WiFi signal. And even when WiFi isn’t an available option, we often wish for a hard wire Ethernet connection. Both of these problems can easily be solved with the use of the Netgear Powerline 1000 Adapter. It’s built to deliver WiFi where you want it, or a wired connection into any power outlet. Since it utilizes the wiring that already exists in your home, there’s minimal setup and anyone should have a very easy time expanding their network to the most needed areas. Additionally, it assures that you’re given the best signal since it uses the latest 802.11ac standard with a 1000 Mbps connection.

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Whether you’re at home or in the office, having a reliable network connection with fast speeds, reliability, and advanced security is a huge importance. Experiencing the most out of your internet connection with a new and improved router can make a real difference when it comes to intensive online gaming, video streaming, and downloading. If you’re looking to improve your network and provide all connected devices with a huge increase in performance, an upgrade like this shouldn’t be put off.

Recently released by Netgear, the Nighthawk X4S (R7800) AC2600 Smart WiFi Router utilizes the latest advanced technology and hardware to deliver insanely fast WiFi speeds up to 2.53 Gigabits per second. With it’s industry first, 160 mHz bandwidth support, it ensures the fastest possible speeds for mobiles devices, laptops, smart televisions, etc.

Instead of sending data to one device at a time, the X4S sends data in a simultaneous manner, no matter if you’re streaming 4k high definition on your TV while playing the latest video game on your PC. Built with Multi-User MIMO and Quad Stream Technology, and equipped with a 1.7 GHz Dual Core Processor, there’s never an issue with lag or latency spikes. Let’s see what else it has to offer.

Quad Stream X4 Architecture

In order to provide better WiFi through both the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands, Quad Stream X4 Architecture was developed as one of the industry’s latest technologies. What it does is provide four data streams to each band which will ultimately maximize the connection speeds and provide smoother streaming with much less buffering.

Speed

Right out of the box, it’s obvious that this router was built for speed and performance. With the NETGEAR Nighthawk X4S (D7800), you can achieve the world’s fastest WiFi at up to 2.53 Gigabits per second. It can offer such speeds since it uses 160 Mhz bandwidth support and simultaneous Dual Band WiFi to deliver the latest 802.11ac connection. Ideal for resource intensive online gaming, 4k video streaming, and large networks with a lot of devices, the X4S is built to impress. Additionally, it has five Gigabit Ethernet ports (1 WAN and 4 LAN) for connected wired devices that need a physical connection.

WiFi Range

Built with 4 long range external antennas, the X4S is designed to use in large homes with multiple stories and several walls. The high performance antennas are paired with high powered amplifiers to reach every nook and cranny of your home or office workplace. Also, Netgear equipped it with Multi User MIMO WiFi technology that offers much improvement over traditional WiFi. Instead of sending data to one device at a time, data is sent to multiple devices simultaneously to improve the bandwidth usage and for each individual client/device that’s connected to the network.

Processor

The Nighthawk X4S is loaded with a Dual-Core 1.7GHz Processor so there aren’t any performance issues that compete for processing power. With this CPU, different processes are separated in an efficient manner and high performance WiFi connections are given the top priority. Netgear also loaded it with a feature called Dynamic Quality of Service or QoS. It makes the most out of the processor by giving latency sensitive applications and high demand tasks the top spot in line of importance. However, lower priority applications aren’t ever tossed out the window – they’re just moved down the list as less of a priority. This means that while you’re streaming 4k or playing the latest online games, file downloads and program updates will still work in the background, but they won’t slow down what’s most important – your game or movie at hand.

Security

We all know how important it can be to have the latest and greatest encryption protecting your network. The X4S does a great job to ensure privacy and protection for your family while they’re online. Built to prevent spyware, malware, phishing, and hackers, it comes included with several secure features to do it all. You’re ensured the highest level wireless security with WPA/WPA2, and you even have the ability to adjust parental controls to manage website access by specific devices or members of the network. Additionally, there’s a guest network setup for separate and secure accessibility for your visiting friends.

Sharing

Sharing between devices on your home network no longer has to be cumbersome and time consuming. Sharing across your network with the R7800 is a fun and quick process that’s simple as can be. With ReadySHARE USB acess, you can connect any device to one of the two USB 3.0 ports located on the back of the router. In a matter of seconds, they’ll be accessible for your entire network to share and enjoy. This is a great feature for setting up a printer, scanner, fax machine, all in one, etc. Additional to the two USB 3.0 ports is an eSATA port that’s essential for the fastest possible transfer speeds for backing up your devices or creating a centralized drive to save important data to.

Easy to Use

Even with very little to no experience, the Nighthawk X4S is very easy to setup and configure right out of the box. We highly recommend using the free Netgear genie app that gives you a personalized dashboard on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. This gives you access to monitor, control, and repair your network from anywhere with a connection. Think of it as a home network manager that gives you the full administrative abilities to use the router how it’s meant to be. Available on PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Android devices.

Final Thoughts

Overall, we’re very pleased with the NETGEAR Nighthawk X4S AC2600 (R7800) Smart WiFi Router. Right out of the box it’s built for speed, performance, security, and reliability as it’s loaded from head to toe with some of the nicest hardware we’ve seen to date.

Offering next generation Wave2 WiFi with 160 MHz bandwidth support, multiple devices can achieve insanely fast speeds without any lag. As a great way to step up your WiFi and improve the connection without any compromises, we feel that it’s a great investment for those who want noticeable improvement with their network.

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Fast and reliable WiFi is a huge importance in most households and office workplaces. In order to achieve a fast wireless connection, you’ll need a high quality cable connection with a modem and router that’s built for top of the line performance with exceptional range, speed, and security features.

Instead of purchasing a separate modem and a separate WiFi router, many are now choosing a cable modem/router combo that includes both in one package. With a router built into the modem, you’ll be able to experience a seamless integration for your home or office network with less configuration and the same fast speeds you need for a great connection with amazing wireless signal strength.

As we go into 2016, it makes more sense to invest in an access point like this if you don’t want to deal with any hassles. Not only will you be able to save on modem rental fees, you’ll finally be able to provide secure and reliable WiFi without any headaches. Below you’ll find a few of our favorite cable modem router combos that stand out as the best of the best. We took the time to research and figure out which ones were worth considering, and which ones weren’t.

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 – Wi-Fi DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem/Router Combo

• The NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Cable Modem/Router Combo utilizes the latest DOCSIS 3.0 technology to provide a reliable connection using the fastest possible speeds. Paired with a router, it delivers true AC1900 speedsup to 1.9 Gbps WiFi Speed and 960 Mbps modem speed.
• Ideal for those who require the fastest speeds and are subscribers of the latest top of the line services from XFINITY, Comcast, Time Warner, MAXX, and Cox Premier & Ultimate.
• Built with an internal 1.6 GHz processor that excels with gaming or high definition video streaming. It works hard to quickly process data and deliver it via WiFi without lag or latency issues.
• Using a new technology called 24×8 Channel Bonding, you can achieve incredibly fast download speeds up to 960 Mbps. It provides faster internet speeds during prime peak hours when you may normally experience a slow or unreliable connection.
• Paired with the free NETGEAR Genie App on your smartphone, PC, tablet, or laptop, you’re given an easy to use interface that enables you to monitor, manage, and control settings and configurations. You can also check the network status, current connected devices, and a whole lot more.
• Compatible with both Mac and Windows, it’s ideal for larger homes with lots of walls that require superior range and power. They’ve even added Beamforming+ technology to excel with ample coverage in large spaces.
• Built with an assortment of advanced security features right out of the box to keep hackers or unwanted guests at bay.

TP-LINK Archer CR700 – AC1750 Wireless DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem/Router Combo

• As a certified choice for Xfinity, Time Warner, Cablevision, and Bright House, the TP-LINK Archer CR700 Cable Modem/Router Combo provides exceptional speeds and reliability with an impressive amount of class-leading features.
• Powered with the latest DOCSIS 3.0 technology, it’s designed to deliver up to 680 Mbps modem speeds and up to 1750 Mbps wireless speeds over dual 2.4 Ghz and 5 Ghz bands.
• Utilizing 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels, your devices will experience faster throughput that excels with high resource intensive tasks like online gaming, HD video streaming, large file downloading, and more.
• In order to create a reliable connection with a WiFi signal that’s suitable for large 2 story houses, TP-Link enabled beamforming technology to boost overall performance. Rather than sending out a signal in all directions, the antennas will work together to create a stronger beam between the connected device and the router.
• Equipped with a dual core processor, it’s designed to handle large tasks without the experience of lag or latency.
• On the back panel are two USB ports that enable you to connect a centralized location for sharing peripherals like printers, hard drives, or other media.
• Backed by an impressive 2 year (24 month) warranty that keeps it covered in case of any malfunctions. Additionally, TP-Link is known for their exceedingly helpful technical support that’s available 24/7 by phone or email.

ARRIS SURFboard DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem/Wi-Fi AC1750 Router Combo

• The ARRIS SURFboard DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem/Wi-Fi Router Combo is a great choice from the famous Motorola brand that’s been a leader in the modem industry for the last several years.
• Built with DOCSIS 3.0 to deliver download speeds up to 343 Mbps, it’s the best choice for those who want a less-expensive, reliable, strong connection, with WiFi speeds up to 1800 Mbps through dual bands at 2.4 Ghz and 5 Ghz.
• Compatible with virtually all operating systems including Mac, Windows, Linux, and even Unix. It’s also fully compatible and approved for all US cable companies that exist.
• On the back panel are four Gigabit ethernet ports for direct wired connections that don’t utilize wireless capabilities.
• Easy configuration and setup right out of the box. The plug and play installation gives anyone with the ability to plug in a cable an easy way to add it to their network. No software is necessary to get it up and running.
• With a 3×3 MIMO antenna configuration, you’ll experience excellent range up to 450 feet that’s ideal for mid-size houses or workplaces.
• Channel Bonding combines 8 downstream and 4 upstream channels to make sure you’re always connected with the best transfer rate possible.

NETGEAR N300 Wi-Fi DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Router

• As one of the most affordable and budget-friendly options, the NETGEAR N300 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem/Router Combo is the perfect choice for those who want a reliable, strong signal, but don’t necessarily need the fastest of the fastest.
• Paired with the latest DOCSIS 3.0 technology and N300 WiFi, you can achieve download speeds up to 340 Mbps. for fast file transfers, HD video streaming, online gaming, or just basic internet browsing.
• You aren’t required to always have the WiFi on. There’s a small button located conveniently in the front that completely turns off the WiFi which will end up saving power so you can save money on your utility bills when you don’t need a wireless signal.
• Right out of the box it’s built to provide security from unwanted guests or hackers. Using the highest level of security available with WPA/WPA2 encryption, you can even setup a guest network so your visiting relatives or friends will have internet access but never be able to access your own private network.
• With advanced parental controls, you can filter out unwanted sites or content that your children shouldn’t be viewing.
• Using NETGEAR’s Genie App, you’re given a useful interface to manage your network from wherever you are. It’s available free of charge on your smartphone, PC, tablet, Mac, or Android.
• Equipped with Turbo Transfer, a useful feature that makes file transfers between your network up to 40 percent faster than before.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a fan of out of the box simplicity and fast wireless connection speeds with a wealth of reliability and top of the line performance, you’ve made a great decision to visit our review. The best wireless router modem combos for 2016 boast both security, high speeds, and the latest advanced features to keep up with our on-demand need for the internet. Whether you’re a hardcore video gamer, one who enjoys streaming the latest HD content, or just a casual web user who needs a fast and reliable home or office network, a modem/router combo is a great way to go.

The post Best Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo Reviews 2016 appeared first on Nerd Techy.

You may have a fast internet connection, but if you aren’t equipped with a high quality WiFi router, you won’t be able to experience true high speed wireless internet in your home or office. As one of the latest standards, AC2600 WiFi Routers provide exceptional features that make it possible for lag-free wireless high speed internet access that pairs well with gaming, HD video streaming, large file transfers, and quick downloads and uploads. Whether you’re upgrading your current router or adding one to a new network, we highly recommend the AC2600 standard.

In the last few weeks we have taken it upon ourselves to research, test, and review the top rated AC2600 Wireless Routers for 2016 that provide exceedingly fast speeds, easy setup, long range, and a slew of the latest technologies that pair well with those who have large homes, heavy traffic, or just a lot of network usage. Through our review, we’ve uncovered the best of the best that make a great investment for those who require or desire the latest wireless speeds and networking standards.

NETGEAR Nighthawk X4S – AC2600 Smart Wi-Fi Router

• As one of the newest releases from NETGEAR, the Nighthawk X4S AC2600 Smart Wi-Fi Router is built with a vast assortment of high end features to keep your wireless internet connection fast, reliable, and secure at all times.
• Powered by a super-fast 1.7 GHz dual core processor, you can achieve wireless transfer speeds up to 2.53 Gbps while utilizing the latest 160 MHz bandwidth to enjoy all of your favorite online activities without experiencing lag. Smoother video streaming, faster online gaming, and effortless file downloads can all be achieved.
• Using the latest Quad Stream Wave2 WiFi paired with Multi-User MIMO, the wireless range excels where most routers may have a hard time keeping up. Ideal for multi-story large home or office work spaces, this router is built to handle a lot of connected devices at once. The four eternal antennas are also equipped with Beamforming+ in order to achieve a fantastic signal from a further distance with obstructions in the way.
• Using the integrated Dynamic QoS feature, the NETGEAR Nighthawk X4S is constantly working to prioritize bandwidth to the processes and tasks that need it most. This way, when you’re playing an intense online video game, the download in the background, or your wife in the other room watching 4k HD Netflix won’t create any lag for you.
• Download the free NETGEAR Genie App and you gain access to a user-friendly backend where you can control just about anything from your smartphone or computer. This enables you to configure settings, check network status, or closely monitor any activity from anywhere you may be.
• Located on the back panel of the router are four Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting wired devices. On the left side are two USB 3.0 ports, and on the right side is an eSATA port. These provide a great way to attach an external hard drive to create a network attached storage that’s always ready for backups or transfers.
• Compatible with both Mac, PC, and Linux.

Linksys AC2600 4 x 4 MU-MIMO Dual-Band Gigabit Router

• Built with a wealth of features that showcase high speeds and insane range, the Linksys AC2600 4 x 4 MU-MIMO Dual-Band Gigabit Router provides all that you’d ever want in a wireless router. With data speeds up to 2.53 Gbps, you’ll likely never experience slow speeds while browsing the web, playing your favorite online game, or downloading large files.
• With the integrated 4×4 Multi-User MIMO feature, there’s plenty of bandwidth to go around for every device on your network. It’s ideal for networks who constantly have multiple devices connected at the same time and are always demanding data. Unlike a traditional router, MU-MIMO gives each of your devices a dedicated signal so everyone in the house can obtain fast speeds without any hassle. In fact, it lets you play games, stream videos, and download large files at speeds that are up to 4.6 times faster than traditional WiFi.
• Inside is a powerful 1.4 Ghz Qualcomm dual core processor that’s always working to process and control a steady stream of data without any latency or lag issues.
• Located on the back of the router are four Gigabit Ethernet ports, one USB 3.0 port, and one eSATA/USB 2.0 port that gives you the option to connect and share peripherals like printers, scanners, or fax machines over the network. Also, you can easily attach a hard drive to one of these ports and give your network a centralized storage or backup location.
• Paired with powerful Beamforming technology that improves the wireless range substantially. Rather than sending out a strong WiFi signal in every single direction, the router will find the best, most appropriate path for the signal to be sent. It’s an ideal feature for large homes or areas with a lot of walls or obstructions in the way that would otherwise become problematic.
• Use the free Linksys Smart WiFi app on your smartphone or computer to remotely monitor, configure, and maintain your network, even if you aren’t connected to it. Ideal for accessing your router from work or while on vacation.
• Compatible with both Mac, PC, and Linux.

TP-LINK AC2600 Archer C2600 Wireless Gigabit Router

• As a less expensive option than the other two routers we’ve mentioned, the TP-LINK AC2600 Archer C2600 Wireless Gigabit Router is a great choice who want exceptional speeds and total reliability without compromising on quality.
• Paired with the latest 4-stream technology, you’ll achieve wireless speeds up to 2.54 Gbps through dual channels for less wait time and more on-demand enjoyment. It’s built to excel with 4k high definition streaming, online multiplayer gaming, large downloads, and heavy network traffic.
• Inside is a powerful 1.4 GHz dual-core processor that’s always working hard to make sure the status of your wireless network is available and sufficient for all devices in your household at once.
• Ideal for larger homes with a lot of walls or multiple stories, there are four external antennas that are paired with high powered internal amplifiers to transmit and receive strong signals without interruption. This router also is equipped with Multi-User MIMO technology to give the best experience to every user on the network, no matter what they’re doing.
• Download the free Tether App by TP-LINK on your mobile device and you’re given access to the backend of your network where you can adjust and configure settings to your liking.
• With one of the most impressive warranties on the market, TP-LINK includes a 24 month (2 year) warranty period and unlimited 24/7 customer support if needed.
• On the back side of the router are four Gigabit Ethernet ports along with dual USB 3.0 ports that make for a great way to attach an external hard drive, printer, all in one, etc.

Final Thoughts

As we become more connected to the digital world, the need for reliable high speed internet increases each day. The popular AC2600 standard is a great choice for those who want blazing fast speeds and don’t want to compromise in quality. Capable of achieving speeds up to 2.53 Gbps, they’re ideal for 4k video streaming, online gaming, and massive file downloads, the WiFi routers we’ve reviewed above all make great choices from an investment standpoint. If 2.53 Gbps isn’t going to cut it and you’re looking for a bit more, be sure to checkout our other review of the 5 Best AC3200 Routers for 2016.

Overall, we feel that NETGEAR, Linksys, and TP-LINK have done a great job in harnessing the latest and greatest wireless networking technologies with these top of the line routers. Each one is paired with MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and packed with the latest security encryption right out of the box. Setup and configuration is easy too, since each one has a free mobile App that gives you full range on the controls and functionality when it’s hooked up to your modem.

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The average household relies heavily on their home WiFi, and when there are problems with the connection, the situation can become very frustrating. When your Internet is down, you probably have experienced a few things – waiting in line with customer service over the phone, plugging cables in and out, resetting your modem, router, or other boxes that you don’t understand and before you know it, you’re in way over your head with a big confusing mess, and still no connection!

The truth is, home WiFi doesn’t have to be a complicated or overwhelming thing to deal with anymore. Set to release on March 15th, the Starry Wi-Fi Station redefines the way you think about your WiFi network. Known as the World’s first ambient touchscreen WiFi station, Starry gives you a clearer insight to your connection with all of the simplicity for anyone to understand, without lacking the functionality of your typical router or network bridge.

Designed to provide powerful, safe and secure WiFi using an integrated MIMO antenna, Starry is a great choice for even larger homes. Fully compatible with both Mac and PC, it utilizes the latest in beam forming technology to provide a solid and reliable connection to each and all devices on the network, even if you have thick walls or two stories.

Starry excels with HD streaming, downloading, and even online gaming since it uses the latest in 802.11ac wireless technology. It’s the latest and greatest standard in WiFi that ensures the best bandwidth so there’s never issues with lag, extended buffering, or poor latency.

Setting it Up

In a matter of three simple steps, un-boxing and configuring Starry for the first time is a piece of cake. First, connect your modem into the Ethernet port of the Starry Station. Then, place on a counter top, desktop, bookcase, or anywhere that’s visible and off the ground. After you find a good spot for it, plug in the AC adapter and follow the brief instructions that appear on the display.

Touchscreen Display

From first glance, you’ll notice the beautifully lit 3.8 inch ambient touchscreen display that gives you total insight and control over all of the key features. You can swipe, press, and maneuver your way around the screen with ease, even in total darkness. When you view Starry from across the room, you’ll see a different arrangement of colors. Each color has it’s own meaning so you can visually understand what’s going on from a distance. Any shade of blue will mean that there isn’t anything to worry about, but Red will indicate that a problem has occurred.

Internet Health

Over time, it will even consciously learn about your network environment and overall Internet Health. When Starry realizes an issue or a potential problem, it’ll suggest you ways to fix them. What’s coolest is the way it lets you know this. When you walk towards and approach Starry, the Internet Health screen will pop up and give you a closer insight as to what’s going on. From here, you can see all of the devices that are currently connected to the network, the current Internet speeds, and a health score. Additionally, it’ll automatically run diagnostic speed tests every so often so you’re assured that you’re getting the appropriate bandwidth (speed) that you’re paying for from your ISP (internet service provider).

Manage Your Kid’s Screen Time

It happens all too often, your children have a tendency to use their smartphones, tablets, laptops, or other devices way too often. With Starry, you can easily manage different “screen times” for individual devices in your home. With the free smartphone app, you can set time rules and keep your children’s devices offline during specific hours of the day. To make things efficient and understandable, everything is laid out in a simplistic manner where you can disable certain devices on school nights, weekends, etc.

Smartphone App

From your iOS smartphone, install the free Starry app and you’re offered extra features and total functionality from anywhere in the world. When you’re not home and you want to see who’s on the network or your current Internet Health, you can easily do that. From the interface you can adjust settings, add rules, enable 5Ghz WiFi, guest access, and much more. Although Android isn’t supported right now, it should be soon. They’re also working on a web user interface that’ll give you the same abilities through your browser.

Never Forget Your Password

Safe and secure passwords are nearly impossible to remember on your own, and it’s not safe to keep them written down somewhere where some stranger or unwanted guest can find it. From the touchscreen on Starry, you can access the network name and password at anytime without going through any confusing or complicated settings.

Final Thoughts

Overall, we’re huge fans of Starry and can’t wait for it’s release in March 2016. Available to pre-order now on Amazon.com for a $349 price tag, the Starry Wi-Fi Station looks to be a solid investment for anyone who wants reliable, trouble-free internet that’s never overwhelming. With it’s beautiful ambient touchscreen display and powerful monitoring capabilities, it’ll always keep you in the loop while providing an excellent connection at all times.

Say good bye to blinking red lights, confusing control panels, and overly-complicated features, Starry simplifies your network and assures the best possible home WiFi experience.

The post Starry WiFi Station Review appeared first on Nerd Techy.

If your yard is equipped with an irrigation system, chances are you’re looking for an easier, more convenient way to operate your sprinklers. In 2016 there are several different Smart WiFi Irrigation Controllers that are designed to do just that. With the ability to connect to your home network through any WiFi enabled device, you’ll have an unparalleled advantage to having every sprinkler fully controllable from your fingertips – no matter where you are. Over time, this can save you money on your water bill while giving you customized and streamlined control over your irrigation system.

But which one is the right one for you? Ultimately that’ll be up to you since you’ll have the deciding factor when it comes down to it. However, we’re here to recommend a few options that are your best bet as far as ease of use, reliability, and overall quality go.

Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller (2nd Generation)

• Designed specifically to decrease your water bill while offering a convenient and easy way to operate your sprinklers, the Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller is the best in class. In fact, it’s even been awarded the EPA WaterSense certification and it’s been rigorously SWAT tested by independent third parties for quality and reliability.
• With the ability to work with up to 16 different zones, you can access your controls right from any Android or iOS device with the free and intuitive app. It’ll give you total control over the schedule and customization options for running your sprinklers at the most ideal times.
• Since it’s connected to your WiFi, Rachio will automatically read the weather forecast and adjust your watering schedule to the exact needs of your yard. These automatic rain delays are important for saving money over time.
• Easy to install and setup with no prior experience. Within a half hour, you can replace your current controller and have it up and running without flaws. There’s no need to be tech-savvy or use any special tools – the entire configuration process is easily achieved by anyone. Comes included with detailed and thorough instructions to get it up and running without hiccups.
• Also known as the most connected sprinkler control that seamlessly integrates into your smart home system. Whether you have Next, Amazon Alexa, IFTTT, Wink, Control4, Nexia, or other home automation systems, you can gain expanded functionality. However, these aren’t required so don’t worry if you don’t have a home automation system.
• Since it’s proudly designed and built in the USA (Colorado), you’re assured long lasting quality and functionality.

RainMachine Mini-8 Smart Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller

• The RainMachine Mini-8 Smart Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller is another excellent option for those looking to integrate WiFi into their sprinkler system for automated savings. It works by carefully analyzing multiple weather sources like NOAA, Weather Underground, and METNO so it’s always accurate with the best redundancy.
• Since it has such a detailed-eye on the incoming weather, it’ll adjust the watering amount and schedule. On rainy days when there isn’t such a need for irrigation, the RainMachine won’t over water. On hot, long summer days, it’ll increase the amount of water so everything in your yard stays nice and green.
• From your iPhone, Android, or any PC browser, you can gain access to your live irrigation system and see detailed statistics, adjust settings, and get a total insight.
• Since it’s EPA WaterSense certified, you can expect drastic savings on your utility bill since it’ll only operate at the most appropriate times. In fact, some local utility companies and municipalities are offering rebates for those who own a WaterSense certified system – check your local utility company to see if they have any rebates.
• The unit carries a sleek and attractive design that’s portable and easy to use. There’s a small illuminated touch pad and a bright LED display that offers a clean and simplistic appearance. This local interface gives you total control in even dimly lit locations like a basement or garage.
• Seamlessly connects to your home automation system. With Amazon Echo, Wink, Nest, NetAtmo, SmartThings, or any other smart home system, you can integrate the RainMachine for even easier use.
• We’ve listed the RainMachine Mini-8 which can control up to 8 zones, however, it also comes in 12 zone (RainMachine HD-12) and 16 zone (RainMachine HD-16) versions if you have a larger yard with more sprinklers.

SkyDrop Wifi-Enabled Smart Sprinkler Controller

• The SkyDrop Wifi-Enabled Smart Sprinkler Controller offers 8 fully independent zones (expandable to 16 zones) so you can have a specific, customized setting for each individual sprinkler. It’s the perfect system for those who have a yard that varies between soil type, slope type, shady, or sunny areas.
• Configure with your WiFi network and you’ll be able to take full advantage of detailed incoming weather forecasts thanks to the integrated Cloud service. It can even create it’s own watering schedule without any input from you so it can literally run on it’s own.
• Features an interactive dial with a beautiful menu screen that looks great on the wall, but gives you access to all of the features if you don’t happen to have your smartphone nearby.
• If you’re a Nest user, you can set it to send you specific water usage reports based on exact days of the week or hours of each day. If your water municipality has any restrictions or regulations on water usage, SkyDrop can limit the water usage so you never exceed any limits.
• Backed by an impressive 2 year (24 month) warranty period that assures it’s long lasting quality for a generous duration after you purchase it.

BlueSpray Internet & Wireless Irrigation Water Sprinkler Controller

• Designed for ultimate customization and massive expand-ability, the BlueSpray Internet-Connected Irrigation Controller is gives you the ability to set unlimited programs, unlimited start times, and unlimited seasons for up to 64 separately controller, independent zones.
• Connecting it to your WiFi opens up the access to any smartphone, tablet, or computer. Using the web-based controller, you’re given a wide range of flexibility with one of the most advanced schedulers on the market. It’s even suitable for agricultural or farming use since it’s packed with a wealth of customization options for both large and small yards.
• With integrated water-saving features, it’ll automatically suspend a watering task if NOAA indicates incoming rainfall or a wet forecast. It even has built-in sensors that detect rain water – if it senses it’s raining, the irrigation will be halted.
• Since there’s a flow sensor, if any leaks are ever detected, it’ll notify you and simultaneously shut off the system.
• Everything is fully operational through any web browser. This means that BlueSpray is compatible with virtually any computer, smartphone, or tablet – no matter how old it is.
• Probably the best option for those looking for ultimate customization options with a multitude of advanced settings.

Blossom Smart Watering Controller

• With a WiFi + Powerline connection and mobile compatibility with any iOS or Android device, the Blossom Smart Watering Controller is an affordable and effective option that’s suitable for up to 12 watering zones.
• Featuring Xona Technology, Blossom will analyze hundreds of different factors and come up with the most cost-effective and appropriate water schedule for specific sprinkler types, plants, and certain zone locations. Each zone will have it’s very own watering needs and Blossom is built to learn that over time to customize a watering pattern that makes sense for your wallet and your garden.
• With it’s 8.75″ x 8.75″ design, it fits well on just about any surface – even outside. From a distance, you’ll see a bright glow emit from the front-panel LED to let you know that your irrigation system is currently operating.
• With the easy to use app, you’re given full flexibility on the scheduling and specific zones. You can even turn on your sprinklers with a single tap using your smartphone. It’s a fun way to show it off to your neighbors and friends.
• Very easy to setup and install – no prior experience is needed. There’s no need to dig, no special tools, and there won’t be any need to hire an expensive contractor.
• With real-time weather intelligence, it’ll analyze current weather data from multiple sources for an accurate prediction on when your sprinklers need to be turned on next. Over time it will create a smart and specific watering plan based on several important factors – all on it’s own.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have a small or large irrigation system with 4 or 64 zones, a Smart WiFi Irrigation Sprinkler Controller can make a real difference in the overall efficiency and cost of your water usage. Designed to integrate seamlessly into your existing WiFi network, they offer a fun and smart way to mange your sprinkler system from virtually anywhere in the world.

We’ve outlined five fantastic options for 2016 – all of which are easy to use, painless to install, and built with quality feature in mind. Which one will you go with?

The post Best Smart WiFi Irrigation Sprinkler Controller Reviews 2016 appeared first on Nerd Techy.

There are very few things that are more frustrating than a slow or uncooperative WiFi network. Even if you pay for a fast connection, you’re going to experience slow speeds, poor latency, and a weak wireless signal if you don’t have the right router for your home or office.

By upgrading your router or access point, you’ll be given a new perspective on fast connection speeds that give you the ability to enjoy fast downloads, faster uploads, and improved wireless transfers and bandwidth with better signal strength and range. But as you may know, the market is saturated with an overabundance or WiFi routers, so selecting one can be a time-consuming and problematic task – especially if you aren’t too savvy with networking or wireless Internet.

One of the most well-known manufacturers of networking equipment, Linksys, has just released one of their newest Smart WiFi Routers that’s built with an assortment of features that keep your bandwidth fast and available at all times. Introducing the Linksys MAX-STREAM AC1900 (EA7500) – we had the opportunity to get our hands on it to see what it’s capable of. We needed a new router for the home office, so we decided to purchase the EA7500 to see if it’s worth the investment. Let’s take a better and closer look at what it has to offer.

Easy Setup and Configuration

Without any network experience, the Linksys MAX-STREAM AC1900 (EA7500) can be setup and configured in a matter of minutes. All you’ll need to do is plug in the router the an available power outlet, connect the included Ethernet cable to your modem, and follow the instructions that are included with the free CD that’s in the box.

The best part is, the CD doesn’t have to install any software on your computer, it simply walks you through the process in a step by step manner where you can easily configure everything about the router on your own. Gone are the days of confusing installation or needing to hire a professional.

Next Gen AC Wi-Fi

Everyone can appreciate high speed WiFi – that’s a fact. The Linksys EA7500 Wireless Router is designed specifically to deliver next generation AC WiFi with up to 1.9 Gbps on two dedicated bands.

The 2.4 GHz band is the ideal option for those who want to use the wireless connection for basic internet use, or older devices that you may still use around the house. It offers up to 600 Mbps which is usually plenty enough speed for general use.

The other band is 5 GHz and it’s capable of delivering speeds that reach 1300 Mbps. It’s the channel that you’ll want to use if you’re planning on using your Internet to it’s full abilities with high-demand tasks like 4K HD video streaming, online gaming, downloading or uploading massive files, or you simply don’t want any compromises.

Beamforming

The whole purpose of a wireless router is to dived and distribute your Internet connection in a safe and effective way. If your router doesn’t have the ability to reach all of the corners of your home or office, it may be worth looking into a router that uses Beamforming technology.

The Linksys MAX-STREAM AC1900 Router is equipped with this, making WiFi dead-zones a thing of the past. You see, rather than blasting a wireless signal in all directions from the router, Beamforming utilizes it’s understanding of exactly where certain connections are needed, and it forms a more-efficient signal directly to it. It will understand the terrain, walls, and obstructions in the way, and make a better effort to form a strong signal either through or around them. In turn, this gives the effect of a better, more reliable, and stronger signal in areas that you may never have had WiFi before.

Antennas and Range

We setup the EA7500 in a home that was around 2600 square feet, and placed it in a media cabinet that was towards one side of the house. Once we set it up, we tested the range and bandwidth in all of the rooms. There was only one bedroom that was upstairs and on the other end of the house that lost a single signal bar on our smartphone. Needless to say, as an upgrade from our previous, outdated Linksys Wireless-N router, we noticed a massive improvement in the range right off the bat.

It’s equipped with three external antennas that seem to do a fantastic job at pinpointing the signal. This along with the Beamforming technology seem to be a huge improvement in overall efficiency.

USB 3.0 and Ethernet

Located on the back of the router is a USB 3.0 input that gives you the option to connect a centralized device so that all of the clients on your network can use it. As an ideal option for those who want a centralied network hard drive, or want to utilize a wired USB printer that doesn’t have a wireless connection. USB 3.0 ensures the fastest transfer speeds possible at over 10 times faster than the older and now outdated USB 2.0 technology.

Additionally, there are four Gigabit Ethernet ports located on the back side for connecting wired devices that require high-speed data transmission.

Network Map

Through any browser, you’re given the ability to login to your router and visually check on all of the connected devices. On a single screen, you can have a clear view on the current network activity and see what devices are connected with their specific signal strength. You’re also given the option to give each device a personal ID so you can identify each one with ease.

Smart Wi-Fi Software

Through your smartphone or tablet, you have the option to install the free Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Software. Although it’s not required, you can use it to carefully maintain and monitor the performance and usage of your network, from anywhere in the world. It gives you all of the configuration options that you can access through the interface of your router, right through your device.

Restrict certain Internet use, create login profiles with various usernames and passwords, and more. You can even check the current download and upload speeds to see if you’re actually getting the speeds that you’re paying for. It also gives you prioritization options for enabling the dedication of the highest bandwidth to specific devices.

Final Thoughts

As an ideal option for those needing a reliable, efficient, and fast wireless router, we must say that we’d highly recommend the Linksys MAX-STREAM AC1900 (EA7500) WiFi Router. Designed with Multi User-MIMO, Beamforming, and the latest Wireless AC technology, we feel that it’s a great option for those who need fast speeds without any compromises.

Ideal for homes under 3,000 square feet, it comes with the fun and useful Smart WiFi app that gives you instant insight into your network at all times. Through our time that we spent setting it up, configuring, and using, we haven’t found any flaws with it. All is well and we can’t be happier with our investment. In our books, it’s a 9.9 out of 10!

The post Linksys MAX-STREAM AC1900 (EA7500) Review appeared first on Nerd Techy.

Whether you have COX, Comcast, Xfinity, Time Warner, or other cable Internet providers, you’re going to need a DOCSIS 3.0 Modem if you want to use your connection to it’s fullest potential. DOCSIS 3.0 (an acronym for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) is the best choice for broadband modems, it’s the international standard for sending data over cable television systems, which enables you the fastest download/upload speeds possible. With speeds up to 16 times faster than the older DOCSIS 2.0 standard, it’s crucial that you invest in a high quality modem that’s designed for DOCSIS 3.0.

Rather than leasing a modem from your ISP, it’s much more cost-effective and smarter to purchase one for yourself. It’ll likely pay for itself within a year, and often provide better speeds than one that you could potentially rent. We’ve taken a look at some of the newest, best-rated options for 2016 based on features, speed, and reliability. Each one is a great choice for just about every Internet Provider in the United States. Additionally, all of the modems we’re going to cover support IPv4 and IPv6 for included future-proofing.

Motorola MB7420 16×4 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem

As a new release in 2016, the Motorola MB7420 16×4 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem is built to handle some of the most demanding tasks without ever breaking a sweat. With the ability to reach speeds of 686 Mbps, you’re assured an incredibly fast connection that gives you the ability to stream 4k high definition video, download massive files, or enjoy lag-free online gaming.

Certified

Unlike some modems that are available, the Motorola MB7420 16×4 is Certified by Time Warner, Xfinity, Comcast, and other leading ISPs. Since it’s certified, you’re assured on compatibility so there aren’t any hassles when it arrives and you’re ready to set it up and configure it for the first time.

16 X 4 Channel Performance

Designed to deliver the best performance possible, Motorola equipped it with 16 dedicated cable data channels to transport information from the Internet, and 4 dedicated cable data channels to transport information to the Internet. This way, you’ll always experience sixteen times the speed as the older DOCSIS 2.0 technology. A noticeable improvement for anyone.

Get What You Pay For

With the integrated Full-Band Capture Digital Tuner, the Motorola MB7420 will make sure that you’re always getting the speeds you’re paying for. At all times, it’ll work towards is best ability to assure the fastest download/upload speeds that your ISP allows.

Great Design

With it’s attractive, sleek look, it appears well on the shelf or desktop without looking like an eyesore. It’s slim profile does well in compact spaces where space-saving is crucial. Additionally, it stays plenty cool at all times and never has issues overheating – thanks to the generous amount of ventilation throughout.

Easy Upgrade

Upgrading to this new Motorola Modem couldn’t be easier. There’s an included Quick Start Guide that walks you through the entire process in a simple and easy to understand manner. Even with no experience, you’ll likely have no issues getting it working right out of the box. However, you may need to register it with your ISP before you use it – otherwise it may not be recognized.

It’s an easy task that involves you letting your ISP know that you bought a new modem. They’ll need the MAC address and within minutes they should have it activated. Best of all, if you have any trouble setting the modem up, you have the option to call Motorola’s USA based support team at anytime.

Incredible Warranty

Backed by an impressive 2 year (24 month) warranty period, the Motorola MB7420 16×4 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem is one of the leading choices in the entire industry. With this added peace of mind, the value is a no-brainer.

ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem

As a trusted choice for several years, the ARRIS SURFboard is now faster than ever with the SB6183 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem. Designed for full compatibility between any and all cable Internet Service Providers, it boasts 16 download channels and 4 upload channels for speeds up to 686 Mbps. down and 131 Mbps. up.

16 x 4 Channels

Specifically created to be futre-proof for all of the latest and greatest offerings that your ISP may have, a 16 x 4 channel configuration is the best way to go. Although some ISPs don’t even utilize these full capabilities, most of them do, and those that do – can deliver incredibly fast transfer rates that can excel your online experience. Enjoying the latest in 4k HD video streaming, massive online multiplayer games without lag, and instantaneous downloads are a real benefit of having this many dedicated channels for downloading and uploading data.

Packed with Great Hardware

Inside is a 1 GHz Capable Tuner and a 600 MHz dual-thread processor that make sure all of your data is being properly distributed in the most effective and efficient manner possible.

Fully Compatible

Designed to work well with virtually any Operating System including Mac, Windows, Linux, and Unix. There’s no need to install any software or go through a lengthy installation process. Additionally, it’s built for energy-efficiency which in-turn will lower heat output and keep it cooler. Thus, increasing the life expectancy drastically for a modem that works just as well as the first day you used it, for years to come.

Fantastic Warranty

The ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 comes packed with another generous 2 year (24 month) warranty period that assures it’s quality and longevity for years to come. Whether you’re getting away from a leased modem, or you simply need an upgrade for a modem that you already own, a good warranty is a must-have.

TP-LINK TC-7610 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem

As a more cost-effective but highly reliable option, the TP-LINK TC-7610 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem offers excellent value for your dollar. Equipped with 8 downstream channels and 4 upstream channels, you can reach speeds up to 343 Mbps down and up to 143 Mbps up. With speeds like this, you can enjoy the most out of your broadband connection and expect lag-free online gaming, fast transfer rates, and HD video streaming without worries.

Certified

Just like the Motorola option we previously went over, the TP-LINK TC-7610 is certified to work with all of the major ISPs out there. This includes but is not limited to Xfinity, Comcast, Time Warner, Cablevision, and Bright House Networks.

Easy Configuration

Setting it up and configuring it for the first time is about as easy as it gets. Simply unbox it, connect the coaxial cable, plug in the Ethernet cable, and connect the AC adapter to the wall. Next, open up your browser and follow the online activation process. Alternatively you can call your ISP directly and just let them know you purchased a new modem and you need it activated – they’ll walk you through the short process.

Another Great Warranty

We sure do love a company that stands firmly behind their product. Along with the above Motorola and ARRIS modems above, the TP-LINK TC-7610 comes included with a 2 year (24 month) warranty period that covers any malfunctions, recalls, or faulty hardware that may arise. Although you likely won’t never need to take advantage of this warranty, it’s nice to know that there’s a safe-net if any issues occur. Additionally, 24/7 technical support is always there.

Final Words

Although pretty much every Internet Service Provider gives you the option to lease a modem from them, nobody wants to be stuck paying a rental fee each month. Even if the rental fee doesn’t annoy you much, you’re going to want one of the best modems that’s able to support all of the newest standards and requirements.

We’ve gone over a few of the most impressive, best DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modems for 2016 that boast both high-end features, reliability, and long lasting quality. Each one is backed by an impressive 2 year warranty period, making the upgrade a no-brainer for most.

Lastly, if you’re in the market for a new modem, but you also need a new router, checkout our review of the best cable modem/router combos if you’re looking for a self-contained combination of both a DOCSIS 3.0 modem and Wireless router.

The post Best DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem 2016 appeared first on Nerd Techy.

Working with an unreliable WiFi Connection doesn’t just push you away from your most comfortable spots in the household where you can fully immerse yourself and do your work – it can cause all sorts of headaches. As more and more homes are starting to become “smart”, even your average appliance/device is in need of a stable internet connection in order to function properly, thus securing access to an all-around high speed internet connection is a priority.

The most important thing with WiFi connections is their ability to provide excellent speeds to multiple devices simultaneously. If you’re trying to secure access for all your devices, you’re going to need something that resembles a small company type of network, and not simply a router with a single repeater located twenty feet away. The best way to go about it is by utilizing multiple access points so not an inch gets left uncovered and the signals don’t get in each other’s way.

The downside thus far was that these things were either too expensive or too complicated for the average person to get a grasp of, meaning that it took a while before companies began simplifying the process and at the same time making it more affordable.

The concept behind Eero was to take WiFi connections you’d normally find in professional settings and make them accessible to the average household while doing so in a series of small white boxes. These boxes connect to your phone with a simple app and let you retain full control over your new stable network.

Not A Router

The Eero Home WiFi System is a class of its own and so far very few devices can compete. Think of it as a few white, small, minimalistic-designed units that you simply place in different areas throughout your house. Three Eero units is enough to cover a regular mid-sized home including the backyard. The main Eero unit simply connects via cable to your modem (using the latest Gigabit-fast WAN port) and other units are simply placed in power sockets around the house.

As soon as you’ve plugged them in (the setup should take a grand total of 2 minutes), it automatically bands these units together, binding them into a single network. After that it starts transferring data between the different units so you end up getting the same speeds in every area of your house, while retaining full control of it even when away from the main unit.

If you’re relying on a single router exclusively you’ll be missing out because the Eero can switch between regular 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies (in case of unexpected signal interferences) and provide you with different paths so all data can be transferred efficiently. The units also take advantage of separate radios in order to differentiate between your devices (laptops, phones, tablets) and other Eero units. This makes it vastly superior to the average router and it will strengthen your connection by a significant margin. If your work can’t do without a stable internet connection, the Eero is an absolute must. A single network can support up to 10 Eero units and this is especially useful if you’re running a resort/workspace where you’ll have a lot of people connected and prefer to have every inch covered on equal terms.

One thing you’ll notice if you’ve been relying on a single router, or even comparative to the average extender – the Eero is a system that not only covers all areas of the house but also equalizes speeds across the board thus users can enjoy it irrespective of their location. Eero’s software is extremely flexible and it will help you adjust your connection for multiple devices, while the main operating/managing software is a simple app.

The connection management is mostly cloud based and it will be easy for you to receive software/security updates the minute that they’re released. You will always be prompted about chances in relation to your network, the devices connected as well as the history. Nothing slips by the Eero. On top of that, the system comes with a Bluetooth connectivity feature in case WiFi alone isn’t enough. You can choose to deactivate this feature if you don’t have Bluetooth devices that could use the connection, but for those who do this is definitely an advantage being that most devices on the market lack it.

Parental Control/List Of People Who Connected

If you’re paranoid about people hacking into your network or simply prefer reports on internet activity you can later examine, you can easily do that using the “weekly digest” feature. It basically gives you a report that contains all information related to the activities, and only a single person (administrator) has access to the data.

App For Controls

As you can imagine based on the photos you’ve seen, the founders designed Eero with simplicity in mind. They made it suitable for most interiors, and the units self manage. However, the control system is top notch because it gives you full control over your network via a single app. All you do is download it on your iOS/Android device and it connects to your Eero units via Bluetooth.

Eero App offers full adjustability over your network and you can everything from checking the current speeds to inviting devices to connect to it and being prompted whenever someone makes a connection attempt. You can send network information (like a user+pass combo) via text message with the press of a button. Another benefit to the cloud system is that it automatically does routine checkups, makes updates and improves security. The whole system has minimal maintenance.

Minimalistic Design/Size

A single Eero is around 5×5 inches (12x12cm) and with its simplistic design it should be suitable for most interiors. When it comes to internal mechanics, it comes with 512MB RAM memory, 1GHz processor and 1GB storage space. It’s compatible with IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac networks.

Final Thoughts – Is It Worth It?

The bottom line is that the Eero Home WiFi System is top-tier – it functions in a different way to your average extender and entirely removes buffering/the need to reset your router. The way it was designed is to allow for an extremely fast data transfer between multiple Eero units (without the need for cables) – therefore no areas are left without stable coverage. It looks simple and it is simple but it gets the job done. Granted you’ll need a few minutes to set everything up and the only downside is that it doesn’t work without the app.

The Eero App provides absolute control over your networks, connected devices and usage history. It’s also suitable for company working spaces/small residential buildings because if your guests request connection information, you can message it to them in a second. Finally, the fact that this device is almost entirely self-managing is beneficial because it detects and fixes its own problems so you’re not forced to restart your router at all. This type of technology was previously reserved for commercial buildings only and now it’s available for the average household so it should make the top of your consideration list.

The post Eero Home WiFi System Review appeared first on Nerd Techy.

Dojo Labs is a company that made waves in the technology industry a while ago, but they haven’t made any of their products publicly available until now. The company introduced their first product that’s not just a test version and is now accessible to the general public – Dojo, a small digital security device that’s designed to protect your home by serving as an all-in-one solution.

There’s a list of reasons why digital security shouldn’t be overlooked, most of which people don’t pay attention to until they get to a point of no return. For one, smart homes tend to rely exclusively on wireless networking. This is far from the safest way to transfer important information, even if you’re doing it via top-notch encryption. Thus the logical question is – how do you stay protected? Well, Dojo was specifically designed to take all of your current connections and fully secure them.

Smart Security

The secret behind Dojo’s functionality is that it does as many things as it doesn’t. For instance, while comparable security systems might operate outside of your network, Dojo doesn’t. It also doesn’t serve as a manager for the security devices you’re using. The thing it focuses most on is your device’s wireless activity. It’s constantly on the lookout for problems. As soon as a problem is detected, it informs you on the spot so you can make a solid decision. You’ll get updates straight to your smartphone (iOS and Android supported). The Dojo works around the clock.

In order for you to grasp this in a practical manner, we’ll have a look into some examples. Say you have some wireless device (like your brand new TV) connected to your network and it starts acting strange. You’ll receive updates on your phone and Dojo will let you block it instantly. If someone is trying to hack into your WiFi or a neighbor tries connecting, you’ll be notified right that second.

Most new internet enabled devices will send information to a manufacturer, even if you’re not aware of it. This helps the manufacturers gather more information on their users, however, with Dojo you’ll be asked whether or not you approve of the information being sent. Dojo also serves as an internet security device of sorts, because it can monitor a detect suspicious activity when you visit websites – If you’re looking at the weather on a certain website and you suddenly start downloading some video, the device will know that something is off and prevent it instantly.

How Does It Look/Feel In Real Life?

It looks as sleek as it’s presented in the pictures – A very simple but efficient design. There are only 2 main parts that you need to make it work: a dock and a pebble (both found inside the package). You can freely experiment with the placement of the pebble and the dock can be placed away from the router as well. There are small LED indicators on the pebble that help visualize your entire list of connections. As you can imagine – judging by its simple design, it only takes a few minutes to set it up and you can plug it into your router as soon as it’s out of the box.

How Does It Connect?

Similar to other security systems you’ve likely used (though the newer ones), you do the controlling via a mobile app. The app has a simple and user friendly interface that allows you to do everything with the press of a button. You’ll be prompted whenever there’s unusual activity and you can either enable or block devices that way. Literally nothing sneaks past this little thing.

Complex Internal Mechanisms

The system is called Dojo Intelligence and it’s basically an engine designed to detect all types of network behavior through complex algorithms, ones that stem from the company’s extensive research. Dojo was designed to prioritize efficiency, and all the data that comes through is collected/analyzed on the spot to help you remain alert as well as on top of potential system threats.

Appearance

One thing you may not be seeing from the pictures online is how small Dojo is. You can practically fit it inside the palm of your hand. Its impressive the way they’ve managed to design everything so that it combines top notch security features, a minimalistic/portable design and effective monitoring with the latest of technology.

Takes Minutes To Set Up

If we rewind the clock to a few years earlier – in order to get an efficient security setup, we’d have to pay obscene amounts of money and also dedicate a lot of time staring at an instruction manual before anything gets done. Setting up Dojo is practically effortless in comparison. All you have to do is plug the box into your current router and then put the Dojo app on your smartphone or mobile device.

You can place the small Dojo rock anywhere as long as the security hubs remain near your main router (assuming you’re using extenders). This way you’ll be alerted whenever something unusual pops up and the lights on the Dojo will change accordingly.

Bear in mind the phone app is as simple as the device looks. When Dojo picks up activity, you’re informed through a simple popup that allows you to make changes on the spot. For instance, if one of your devices starts sharing data outside of the network (it could be something simple like sending feedback to a manufacturer) you’ll be prompted about it and then give your permission/decline on the spot. The idea behind it is to provide you with a range of security options (combined with great privacy), however, without having to bear a PhD in network security.

Is It A Reliable Company?

This is actually one of the newest companies to make an impact on the network security market, although the background story and founding team do it justice. Dojo was founded by Yossi Atias and Shmulik Bechar, Israelis who have experience working with bigger tech companies like Google, Samsung and started out doing network security in Israeli intelligence. They’re about as high as it gets on the qualifications scale and it didn’t take long before they managed to raise roughly $2 million for the first round of devices.

If you’re designing your smart home at the moment, network security is one of the highest priorities to tick off and very few devices combine the amount practical features and pure minimalistic design as Dojo. This device is seems to be on track to become one of the leading Security-of-things devices.

Conclusion – Should You Pre-Order Now Or Wait It Out?

At the moment they are busy creating new algorithms that will help them get a better grasp of home devices thus analyze and weed out features that might be less necessary than others. Dojo is expected to ship somewhere during the summer of 2016 and the pre-order is available at such a low price point that you’re getting a lot of value by being early. If you need a network security device that’ll easily connect to your phone and analyze your network around the clock while giving you full control over your connectivity, Dojo is all you need.

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It can be overwhelming and quite frustrating to deal with an old, outdated router. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading simply because you want more speed, range, and reliability, an AC1900 Wireless Router is an excellent choice.

Capable of providing up to 1900 Mbps (megabits per second) of 802.11ac fully wireless speed, we’ve spent the last few days testing, determining, and reviewing the top four best AC1900 WiFi routers for 2016. All of the options that we’re going to cover are easy to install, fully compatible with all Internet Service Providers, and both Windows and Mac Operating Systems.

Linksys MAX-STREAM EA7500 Next Gen MU-MIMO Smart WiFi AC1900 Router

• As a brand new release for 2016, the Linksys MAX-STREAM EA7500 provides Next-Generation WiFi with the latest in MU-MIMO (multi-user, multi-input, multi-output) technology to deliver consistently fast speeds for every single connected device on your network. It ensures that multiple devices will have the same speeds at the same time – a real advancement for WiFi.
• Designed specifically for providing up to 1900 Mbps (1.9 Gbps) of dual-band speed, it’s effective for just about anything you throw at it – 4k high-def video streaming, console gaming, PC gaming, laptops, or for several simultaneous users downloading large files.
• Comes included with the new Linksys Smart WiFi Software that gives you easy access and full control over your home network from anywhere in the world. It combines the latest key features to keep you constantly informed, connected, and up to date regarding the status and users who are using your network. It even lets you setup and configure guest access.

• Uniquely designed with plenty of ventilation and internal cooling to keep it operating as efficiently as possible for all duration of the day. Through peak traffic times and when you’re not around, it works around the clock to make sure accessible WiFi is always ready.
• Security and encryption settings are preset and automatically integrated when you complete the installation process. No CD required. This process doesn’t take anymore than 5 to 10 minutes and can be completed by anyone of any experience level – no tech experience required.
• Equipped with three external, detachable antennas and built around a sleek, simple, yet stylistic design that looks just as great as it functions.
• Using Linksys’s latest advancements in Beamforming technology, each individual device is given a concentrated signal, rather than the typical wireless signal that’s emitted in all directions. This makes for increased range, better speeds, and a more reliable connection.
• Comes included with a USB 3.0 and a USB 2.0 port for connecting printers, hard drives, or other peripherals that you may want to share between multiple devices. Additionally, the four Gigabit Ethernet ports provide a solid wired connection for any devices or computers that don’t connect via WiFi.

NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 Dual Band AC1900 WiFi Router

• Capable of providing true AC1900 speeds using dual bands, the NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 WiFi Router is the ideal choice for those who want to excellent wireless coverage that’s ideal for video streaming, online gaming, multi-file downloading, and uninterrupted web browsing.
• An easy upgrade, even if you’re not tech-savvy and you don’t have a networking background. Right out of the box it’s ready to go as it has an automatic installation process that’s entirely straightforward.
• Comes included with NETGEAR Genie, a web, tablet+-+ or smartphone based application that allows you to access, control, and configure your wireless network from literally anywhere in the world. You’re even given a live Network Map that gives you a clear picture on which devices and clients are currently connected to the network.

• Utilizes NETGEAR’s latest Beamforming Technology that’s designed specifically to provide more reliable connections in more locations in your home. By focusing the WiFi signal to specific devices, rather than having spotty coverage in a poor area. Using automatic signal management, the signal is always kept in it’s most ideal form to make a strong, secure, and reliable connection between your device and the router.
• Equipped with a powerful 1 Ghz dual-core processor that makes for quick data processing and more consistent speeds with multiple users online at the same time.
• Since it has Advanced QoS, your gaming is prioritized so that you experience the best frame rates without any lag or bandwidth issues. It does this automatically by recognizing that you’re in-game at the moment.
• USB 3.0 port located on the front in order to provide quick transfers or connections to network attached printers, storage, or other peripherals.

TP-LINK Archer C9 Dual Band Wireless AC1900 Gigabit Router

• The TP-LINK Archer C9 AC1900 Wireless Router uses dual bands – 2.4 Ghz (600 Mbps) and 5 GHz (1300 Mbps) for providing excellent reliability with a massive amount of coverage, for a fraction of the price of any Netgear or Linksys brand router.
• Using a unique, stand-up design, it’s propped upright in order to provide extra reach for the three detachable antennas. Giving it a sleek and modern look, it’s designed to appear clean and simple while providing a reliable, fast connection to all areas of your home.
• The internal 1 Ghz dual core processor makes it efficient and incredibly quick at processing data on the fly. Ideal for high-bandwidth uses like 4k high definition streaming, massive online multiplayer gaming, multiple users, and families who are constantly connected to the web.

• On the exterior of the router are four Gigabit Ethernet ports with one USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0 port. The USB ports are essential if you plan on adding a centralized storage drive to backup, access, and remotely save your files to. The Ethernet ports are great for providing non-wireless computers with a solid, Gigabit connection.
• Using the free TP-LINK Tether App, you can login to your router from anywhere with your phone or tablet, and access the control panel to adjust your settings, make changes, or configure users.
• Backed by an industry-leading 24 month warranty period. This 2 year time-frame offers a wealth of assurance that it’ll perform just as well as the first day you bought it, for a long time down the line. Great from an investment standpoint since it’s already priced well.

Amped Wireless Titan RTA1900 High Power AC1900 WiFi Router

• Ideal for both larger homes and office workplaces, the Amped Wireless Titan RTA1900 is a high-powered AC1900 wireless router that’s designed a bit differently than the other three we’ve mentioned above.
• With a combination of 3 transmitters with 4 receivers and 4 antennas per frequency, it covers an area more freely than any other standard router. It’s unique design provides unparalleled reliability with the performance and range you need for a frustration-free connection.
• Built with a 1 GHz dual core processor, 128 MB or DDR3 Memory, and four high-gain 5dBi external antennas, it promises ultimate coverage and performance for 4k high definition television, file sharing, downloading, online gaming, and more.

• 4 Antenna-Rx Technology is ideal for online gaming with the most recent video games. The unique transmitter and receiver arrangment is what they’ve done to combat lag-spikes and poor frame rates.
• Optimizing your network can be done remotely with the Analytics App from Amped Wireless. It’ll give you a true insight into your network and let you adjust the settings as you please.
• Amped Wireless is well-known for their excellent customer support that’s based in the United States – it’s completely free and accessible for help at anytime.
• Equipped with one USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0 port for attaching printers, hard drives, or anything else you’d like to share among clients on your network.

Final Thoughts

We’ve given you three of the best options for AC1900 wireless routers that make the best choice for 2016. Linksys, NETGEAR, Amped Wireless, and TP-LINK have all gone above and beyond by creating exceptionally well-built wireless routers that utilize the latest in a wide range of technologies. Remote monitoring, USB 3.0, 1.9 Gbps speed, multi-platform compatibility, and more. All of these have it, it’ll ultimately be up to you to select the right one for your specific home or office – which one will you be choosing?

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Few things are more frustrating than spotty WiFi coverage in your home or office. It makes for a troublesome experience with slow connection speeds, interrupted downloads, and horrible lag or latency issues. Regardless of what you use your network for, I think that it’s safe to say we can all agree on this.

Most routers are built to provide excellent coverage, but depending on the exact layout or architecture of your home, this may be a far cry from what you’re actually experiencing. Solid foundations, walls, appliances, and sheer distance can mean that you don’t have very reliable or accessible WiFi in all areas of your home. To fix this issue, you’ll need a WiFi range extender that clears up your connection issues and drastically improves wireless range.

Introducing the TP-LINK RE355 & RE450

Recently released, the TP-LINK RE355 and RE450 provide a solution to slow or unreliable WiFi coverage while boosting speeds and expanding range without any hassles. Starting at around $85, the RE355 is the AC1200 version that provides up to 1.2 Gbps of transfer speeds. While priced a bit higher at around $105, the RE450 is the top of the line option as an AC1750 version boasting 1.75 Gbps. transfer rates.

Both designed specifically to provide up to 10,000 feet of additional wireless coverage for your network, they offer an easy in-outlet design that gives you the freedom to place anywhere inside your home, office, or business workplace. Each equipped with three powerful dual-band external antennas, they’re all paired with their own high-powered amplifiers to send a clear and distinctive signals to multiple WiFi connected devices.

Easy Installation and Setup

As with anything that’s tech or network related, many people often worry about how they’ll set it up and configure it. Rest assured, the installation process is very straightforward and simple – it only takes a few minutes. First, you’ll need to plug the extender into an area that’s within the current router’s wireless coverage. Next, join the wireless broadcast that you’ll see from the RE355 or RE450 Extender from any computer. Then, open up a browser and head on over to tplinkrepeater.net. From there, enter in the username and password (admin, admin) and you’re good to go. From here, you can change the extender name or adjust settings at anytime.

Once you’ve completed the initial setup procedure, you can freely move the extender to any outlet in your home. You’ll then be able to join the signal that the extender is broadcasting in any area that was once a dead zone. Best all all, you’ll have instant insight into the immediate and maximum range by taking a quick look at the front of the extender. The circle or “Intelligent Signal Indicator” will illuminate either blue or red. Blue, indicating a good connection. Red, indicating a poor connection.

Tether App

As a great way to setup and manage your WiFi extender is by using the free Tether App by TP-LINK. From your Android or iOS device, you’re given instant access to your network and what’s currently connected. It’s laid out in a way to offer all of the features and specifications in a portable mobile app that you can readily access from virtually anywhere in the world.

Difference Between the RE355 & RE450?

Normally we review one device or product at a time, but the reason we decided to review both the RE355 & RE450 together is because they’re so similiar. But what’s the real difference between the two? They look identical, but the RE450 is slightly faster than the RE355. By offering AC1750 speeds rather than AC1200 speeds, the RE450 is more ideal for those who want to use their connection for ultra high definition streaming in 4k, online gaming, or those who need the fastest data speeds possible. Although AC1200 may provide more than enough speeds for your given situation, it’s nice to see that two different options are available.

Compatibility

Adding a WiFi extender to your network can make a massive improvement, but if it doesn’t work with any of your devices, you’re not really gaining much. Don’t worry though, the TP-LINK RE355 and RE450 are universally compatible to work with any router, even if it’s severely outdated. Additionally, all devices and operating systems are compatible including Mac, Windows, Linux, and more.

Wireless Bridge

Equipped with it’s own Gigabit Ethernet port, these TP-LINK AC1200 and AC1750 range extenders can make any Ethernet-connected devices available through WiFi. If your device doesn’t support WiFi, but it can be connected via Cat-5 Ethernet, this opens up a whole new realm of possibility. It gives you the freedom to connect virtually anything that has a wired connection but isn’t able to connect wirelessly, acting as a bridge between the device and your network.

Beamforming

Rather than broadcasting it’s wireless signal in all directions, TP-LINK integrated “Beamforming” technology in order to make the most of an available connection. Beamforming ingeniously locates devices using WiFi and specifically targets them in order to provide a more constant and dedicated signal that’s much stronger than any conventional wireless signal. This keeps the antennas and amplifiers dedicated to your specific devices rather than putting a signal in areas that simply don’t need it.

Final Thoughts

Gaining WiFi coverage in your home, office, or business environment doesn’t have to be a problematic hassle like it once was. With a simple installation process, powerful amplifiers, and beamforming technology, you can successfully increase the range of your router by as much as 10,000 additional square feet. The plug-in design makes it a discreet and slick upgrade that doesn’t pose as an eyesore since it’s much slimmer and low-profile than many other wireless range extenders that we’ve previously reviewed in the past.

Whether you’re interested in the RE355 AC1200 WiFi Range Extender or the RE450 AC1750 WiFi Range Extender, they back it by an impressive two year (24 month) warranty period that assures it’ll always work flawlessly and as intended. This kind of assurance is nice to have with any investment in your wireless network, and TP-LINK is well known for standing proudly behind their products with unlimited technical support whenever you need it 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Overall, we’re really happy and quite impressed with both the RE355 and RE450. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone looking to boost a spotty or poor-coverage WiFi network.

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One of the hardest tasks people are often faced with when they move into a new home is securing a consistently reliable internet connection. This is especially the case if you have more than a few bedrooms and additional square footage. Since Wi-Fi transmission caps out at a certain point, it can become weak as the distance from your router increases. To fix this, you’ll likely have to purchase additional hardware. Your Netflix might work perfectly in the living room, but if you try it in the bedroom, chances are, it’s not going to be quite as fast.

Conversely, if you place the router in your bedroom and then decide to read up on some recipes in the kitchen, you might have in that situation as well. So how do you secure full coverage in your home, regardless of your routers location? Luma, the “Surround WiFi Router” may be your best solution.

What Can It Do For Your Home?

The first use for the Luma Home WiFi System is network security. It’s constantly running in the background to make sure that all connected devices are password protected. It does this as a security measure so that non-domestic devices don’t have the ability to connect. Additionally, it’ll scan for malware in the process.

Luma is an all-in-one management tool for your home network, giving you full control over the different users/devices. It even allows you to cap the amount of time a certain device can spend on the Internet. This makes it great for parents, given they can now monitor what their children are viewing.

If you’ve used regular or standard routers that ISP’s tend to sell at inflated prices, you’ve probably noticed that many of them can be quite demanding in terms of IT knowledge. For some, it may even seem that you need professional IT experience just to adjust basic settings without messing everything up.

The advantage Luma has over these is a simple management system via mobile app. The company calls this your “companion” app, and you as the admin are granted full control over everything network-related. For instance, you can allow/ban devices from connecting, read information on servers that your “smart” appliances are connected to. It can even give you a generic view of pages loaded (you can see someone is checking their email but can’t read the actual email).

The administrator “activity tracker” mostly serves for parental control. In practical terms, this means you’ll be able to lock certain connected devices in a way that they can’t view adult-rated content. These “locks” don’t stretch across the board for all connected devices, only the ones you selected. If you prefer to approve everything on a case-by-case basis, you can be prompted about each connection attempt. In addition, the monitoring will allow you to see whether your kids are studying, or just spending time on the web.

Business-Level Security At Home

The reason why Luma is so revolutionary in terms of home security (similar to the Eero) is that it takes the level of security that was normally reserved for business environments, and makes it accessible to the regular user and their household. Whenever devices attempted to do this in the past, they failed at providing that full spectrum of practical features and in turn, people had to settle for less. Now this truly isn’t the case. Your Luma WiFi System is automatically on the lookout for network intrusions, checking whether your connected devices are/have contracted malware.

The “security” doesn’t imply phones and tablets only. Many devices like smart TV’s and even some smart kitchen appliances may send out information to the manufacturer without your known consent. Luma also checks for random password changes in case someone attempts to breach your network. If people try to connect, you’ll be immediately prompted and given the option to either approve or not. As soon as they’re connected, you retain full control over their connection, but you can cut them out as you please.

Several of the latest routers feature 802.11ac connectivity, including Luma – it’s really become the standard. Luma is packed full of new, updated, long-lasting hardware and you’ll likely notice it doesn’t look like the average router. The company wanted to make it as design-neutral as possible, thus fitting for even the most modern interiors.

Exceptional Parental Controls

As mentioned, Luma offers some high-end parental control features since it was mostly designed for typical family environments. There are a lot of disturbing websites on the Internet you don’t want your kids stumbling upon, as this can have a serious effect on their psychology – not simply just adult websites. The good news is that you can configure it to restrict ones you’re not familiar with, and analyze the rest on a case-by-case basis before approving.

Tracking can be a problem with Luma, which is why it might be considered a downside for people who don’t want to breach other’s privacy. Individual connectivity data is retained for a year and you can’t lock this feature out. You can only hide certain activities. The way it presents it is by giving you the list of websites visited – however, without actual screenshots.

Trusted Creators

The technology Luma makes accessible is impressive, but this is expected when you take in consideration the qualified team behind it. Two senior founders, Paul Judge and Mike Van Brunisse, who have a lifetime of experience/specialization in messaging and cloud based security, came up with the internal mechanics, then effectively managed to fund the company on their own. They analyzed security systems that were available for big companies and decided to trickle that down into a high functioning home security system.

Any Downsides?

In the case of Luma, the main downside is also its strongest advantage point depending on how you look at it. It’s unmatched technology in terms of home usage, but it’s ability to save personal data may throw some people off. However, there are certainly similar alternatives out there, like the new Eero. For one, Eero offers similar security features, but doesn’t log or give you access to what people are individually viewing.

The Verdict

We can safely conclude that although the Luma Home WiFi System has taken a long time for the company to produce and finally release, they put a lot of extra effort into making the system run flawlessly and with the best technology. We think that it’s currently one of the best user-friendly products for home network and Internet security – especially for those who aren’t too savvy with a typical router.

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