

The router finds the location of your device to determine where to focus the WiFi signal. Beamforming (or spatial filtering) gives the router the ability to focus the signal toward specific devices in your home instead of blanketing the entire home with the same signal strength. This means that if someone downloads a file while you're playing an online game, your game won’t lag because it’s been assigned first priority.īeamforming is another advanced option on modern routers that can significantly improve signal strength and speed. For example, you can set the QoS option in the router's admin panel to give priority to online games or video streaming.

By utilizing the QoS feature in your router, you can ensure the router will allocate the appropriate bandwidth to your favorite devices. With so many connected devices in your home like smart plugs, mobile smart phones and notebook computers, your wireless signal can get stretched thin. Quality of Service or QoS is a feature found in advanced routers that gives you the ability to prioritize certain kinds of WiFi traffic.

From your smartphone or tablet, you can prioritize WiFi between devices, monitor your speeds, restrict sensitive content from the kids, or access home security cameras while you're at work. Some routers come equipped with mobile app compatibility, allowing you to remotely check in on your home Wifi network settings. If you have multiple antennas, you can adjust them to better deliver coverage to each floor of your home, from the basement to the upstairs bedrooms. Routers with internal antennas look more elegant on a bookcase or table, but those with external antennas can give you stronger signals. When comparing routers, you'll see that some models have antennas protruding from the case, while others do not.
