A guide to choosing your own router
How many people will be using the connection and how many devices will be connected?
Before you start shopping, it's important to consider how many people will be using the connection and how many devices will be connected to the router. If you live alone or with one other person, a basic router may be sufficient. However, if you have a large household or many devices that need to connect to the internet, you'll need a router with a stronger signal and better bandwidth.
Will you be using the connection to work from home?
Consider your work-from-home needs: If you work from home or depend on a reliable internet connection for your job, you'll want to invest in a high-quality router that can handle heavy usage. With more people working from home and relying on video conferencing and other web-based apps for their work a strong reliable wireless connection is a must have.
When using your own router, it is important to consider the type of connection you have.
Onestream Fibre 40, Onestream Fibre 80
These connections require a VDSL enabled modem router, which is distinguishable by the DSL port on the back of the router.
These plug into either a microfilter or a phone socket.
Supreme 80, Supreme 115, Supreme 220, Supreme 550, Hyperstream 1000
To connect to one of our new FTTP services you will need a router that has a “WAN” port on the back, this will connect your router to the new Openreach ONT.
With Fibre speeds you will need to ensure the router is capable of handling speeds of up to 1Gbps.
Connecting over Wi-Fi
If you’re utilising Wireless to connect your devices at home, it is important to get a router that matches your requirements. With Fibre to the premises speeds now reaching up to 1Gbps you will benefit from purchasing a router with dual band or even Wi-Fi 6 capabilities.
2.4ghz: the “basic” wi-fi connection. Good for connecting a few users.
2.4/5ghz dual band: this is where the router produces two signals. 5ghz is better for closer range to the router and offers much faster connection to the router. You will also keep access to the 2.4Ghz for longer range connections.
Wi-Fi 6: the latest Wi-Fi variant. This has excellent range and speeds to match FTTP, utilising modern technology to reduce the impact of possible interference. A must have for gamers and work from home customers.
Connecting over Ethernet
If you’re looking to connect your devices with an ethernet cable you will need to make sure the speed of the ethernet ports support your connection, Most newer routers will offer full 1Gbps ethernet ports however you may find routers are still being offered with 100Mb ports. If you are opting for full fibre speeds you will benefit from a router with 1Gbps ports.
By considering these factors and answering the questions about your usage needs, you should be able to find a router that provides a reliable and fast internet connection for your home.