With hundreds of brands and models to choose from, finding the right router can be a bit daunting at times. The following should explain what is compatible and how to help narrow down your search before buying a router.

What is Compatible?


The first thing to know when looking for a device is knowing that a Modem and Modem/Router combo do not work on our service. Modems only work with their specified Internet Providers, and have a different port than a Router will have to get an internet connection.

*Fiberwave already converts the fiber to ethernet eliminating the need for a modem*


Wireless Routers are what you should be looking for, these will have just Ethernet Ports on them, which is how Fiberwave provides an Internet Connection. You will then want to determine how fast of a router you want and if you'd prefer an AC or AX router.


What is the difference between AC and AX (Wi-Fi 5 vs Wi-Fi 6), and what do the numbers after it mean?


For a brief explanation, AX(Wi-Fi 6) is the newest standard of Wi-Fi to come out. This supports faster speeds, better connectivity, and often times more features. But it's very likely your devices won't fully support this standard of Wi-Fi if they were not made after 2020. While they should work just fine, you wouldn't be taking full advantage of the speeds it's capable of.

AC routers are still very common, more affordable, and more accessible. Unless you are set on getting the latest and greatest of technology, an AC router should still be a great option. 


When looking at AC/AX routers you will likely see a number, this is reference to the speeds it supports. Fiberwave typically recommends no lower than an AC1750 router. So for example, the 1750 number is split between the 2.4ghz and 5ghz band. When connected to the 2.4ghz signal you will get a maximum link rate of 450Mbps, and 1,300Mbps on the 5ghz band. From here all of your devices will split that link rate/speed of your router.



How much should I spend on a router?


You can find routers that will fit any budget, you may see some anywhere from $50 to $400. A lot of this pricing is due to features and maximum speeds a router can handle. Fiberwave recommends spending close to $100 minimum, but this is not required by any means.


What Features should I want in my router?


Features like Beamforming, MU-MIMO, and Tri-Bands are all features that becoming more common and can help drastically in your Wi-Fi experience. But keep in mind these may shoot up the pricing of your router.


  • MU-MIMO -  Stands for Multiple-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple Output. A basic explanation of this means your router can communicate with multiple devices all at the same time.
  • Beamforming - This allows your router to aim a signal directly at devices that need an internet connection. This can improve efficiency of your router and create stronger signals to your devices.
  • Tri-Band - For a long time routers have been dual band, this means that it has a 2.4ghz and a 5ghz signal. A Tri-Band router typically adds a 2nd 5ghz signal, which can improve speeds and connectivity to your network so that all your devices aren't cluttered on a single 5ghz signal. This is especially important if you have a lot of devices and most of them are connected to the 5ghz signal.