How to choose the right router for your home

The internet can sometimes feel like a language all on its own. Between internet lingo, new and unfamiliar equipment, and trying to understand how your internet works, things get confusing quickly. That’s why we’re here to help make things easier on how to select an essential component to your internet connection, your router.

What is a router?

The router is a piece of equipment that takes the signal from your modem and distributes it to both wired devices and wireless (wi-fi) devices. The router also controls the range in which you can receive a wireless signal. (Learn more about how the internet gets to your digital device)

The first step in selecting a router is making sure it can handle the speed of your internet plan. Not all routers can handle all internet speeds. If your internet plan has 300 Mbps and your router can only handle 100 Mbps, you will be missing out on 200 Mbps of speed. (What internet speed is right for you?)

Another element you will want to look for if you live in a large home or a home with multiple levels is your router’s wi-fi signal range. Every router has a specific signal range, and it may not be strong enough to reach every corner of your home. On occasion, walls, appliances, and sometimes furniture can disrupt your signal or stop it from going into the room next door. If your router is not strong enough, we recommend pairing it with a wi-fi extender to expand the signal into every corner of your home.

The last feature to look for in a router is built in security. To keep you and your family safe from digital threats and someone else using your network, your router should come with a password security option. Along with a password security option, you want to make sure that your router is able to make automatic updates when the manufacture makes changes to their software.

Want a router that checks off all of these boxes and more? All West trusts the Plume SuperPod system for all your router needs. Plume is a cloud-based system that provides you with full-strength, uninterrupted connectivity where and when you need it. The Plume app delivers an enhanced experience through custom guest access, parental controls, and AI Security™ for added protection. SuperPods™ are beautiful, small and plug straight into the wall.

Learn more about the top 5 features of Plume our staff raves about

If you need help selecting a router or want to learn more about Plume, our Customer Service team is just a phone call away at 866.255.9378.