A router is a rather effective piece of equipment. Linking all your PCs makes file sharing, backing up files and internet usage much easier.

When buying a router you ought to keep in mind that there is a noteworthy speed difference between the quality and cheap routers, especially for larger networks.

There are various kinds of routers that perform different functions effectively: some are low-cost, others deal with a sizable network well, some are straightforward for newbies to use and some are extremely quick. In Best Wireless Router 2012 we will look at a few routers with various good and bad points.

One tip for planning your wireless network: with all the routers the speed of the link with the router is better the physically nearer the wireless device is to the router.

Linksys by Cisco

The Linksys is our best wireless router of 2012 as it ticks all the boxes. It’s fairly easy to setup, it offers decent range, it’s cost effective and it handles a larger network nicely. Its strong point however is it’s quickness, this is a seriously fast wireless router.

The Linksys has always on dual band. Consequently your wireless devices will pick up two wireless modems. It’s handy for establishing 2 levels of security on your network. Moreover there is less interference in between wireless devices.

The largest problem with this router is the fact that it does not have any USB ports. USB ports on a router are regularly employed to connect external computer drives or printers to the network.

WRT610N

This router is much the same to the one discussed before. The difference is that it does not possess the dual band connect, but it has gigabit Ethernet.

So if your Ethernet tempo is more essential to you, try to get this one. If the wireless speed is a bit more important, purchase the one above.

Apple AirPort Extreme Base Station

If some of the devices on the network was created by Apple you should have this router. Using a Mac with some other router isn’t a good option. The Airport lets you connect your iPhone, iPod touch, and Apple TV to your network.

The router is a bit more pricey than other routers in it’s class, but it is a very high end router. It will manage up to fifty connections and comes with a one year warranty.

This router has 3 Gigabit Ethernet ports and one USB port.

Netgear Rangemax WNDR3700 Dual Band

The Netgear routers are the least difficult to setup. This is a quality feature rich router and you can set it up in a couple of minutes.

Of all routers here the Rangemax has the longest range. If you are setting up a network in a three story home it is the router to have. The Rangemax also handles interference from microwave ovens and mobile phones better. Probably because it puts out a stronger signal.

I have used many Netgear devices at home over the years and I have always been pleased with their level of dependability and with the customer support Netgear gives.