Chapter 1: Introduction to Wi-Fi 6

The quality of our online interactions can greatly influence our mood. Even with gigabit internet speeds, a subpar Wi-Fi router can hinder performance across devices.

Most modern smartphones, tablets, and laptops now feature upgraded Wi-Fi 6 chipsets, enabling gigabit speeds. However, achieving these speeds necessitates a reliable router. My experience with the ASUS RT-AX88U confirms its capability to deliver such speeds without the need for wired connections.

Launched in the latter half of 2018, ASUS has consistently updated the software of this Wi-Fi 6 router, introducing numerous impressive features.

In the following sections, I will outline some standout characteristics of the RT-AX88U and help you determine if it could elevate your home network and online experience.

Section 1.1: A Wireless Connection Comparable to Wired

With a variety of devices capable of reaching gigabit speeds via Wi-Fi, navigating the wireless connection landscape is more intricate than simply adopting a new Wi-Fi standard.

The existing 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz network standards often fail to deliver their full potential, particularly for IoT devices. Many of our smart gadgets feature low-cost, slower Wi-Fi chips. To enhance the wireless connection experience, investing in a robust router that supports the 2.4 GHz channel is essential.

The RT-AX88U is equipped with four external antennas for the 2.4 GHz band, expanding the Wi-Fi signal reach for IoT devices. In my household, which hosts over 20 IoT devices utilizing the 2.4 GHz channel, I have not encountered a single Wi-Fi outage in the six months since I began using this router.

The 2.4 GHz capabilities of this router bring an array of features to your home network configuration. One notable feature is Wi-Fi Agile Multiband, which can alleviate congestion by distributing clients across different bands, thereby reducing traffic.

Subsection 1.1.1: Why the RT-AX88U Stands Out

Wi-Fi 6, also known as the 802.11ax standard, merges the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to achieve impressive speeds. This is particularly beneficial for homes with multiple devices; if you have over 30 Wi-Fi devices, this router will meet your demands.

The fast wireless connection allows seamless file transfers between my Mac, iPhone, and iPad. For example, I can send a half-gigabyte file from my Mac to my iPhone in under 8 seconds, and in less than 4 seconds using its gigabit LAN!

Adaptive QoS is another feature that enables me to prioritize streaming services, particularly since I frequently use YouTube and prefer to avoid buffering.

The ASUS App for iPhone is an excellent tool for users who may find the router's web interface complex. It receives bi-monthly updates and continually adds new features. One of the app's most useful aspects is its notification system, alerting me whenever a new device connects to my router.

The router's software updates are noteworthy; since 2018, ASUS has issued over 30 updates, enhancing the device with new VPN protocols, WPA3 encryption, WAN aggregation, and AI Mesh, among other features. This router boasts advanced hardware and consistently receives both new functionalities and security enhancements.

Chapter 2: Features I Appreciate

The VPN Client feature allows me to circumvent internet censorship in my region, providing unrestricted internet access for all my devices. This is particularly beneficial in countries with strict regulations on certain services.

The OPEN VPN and WireGuard protocols ensure a swift VPN connection with high security and performance. I am particularly impressed by WireGuard, as it connects in under 3 seconds and reduces my latency, which is advantageous for online gaming.

NAS support is another highlight, allowing me to connect two external drives through the included USB 3.1 Gen 1 port and share them across the network. I have successfully connected two 1 TB external HDDs to the router, and it operates reliably.

WAN Aggregation lets me combine two internet connections into one. While it doesn’t drastically increase internet speed, it does enhance bandwidth, which is incredibly useful for households where multiple users are streaming simultaneously.

Conclusion: Embracing New Technology

In the realm of technology, it is essential to embrace advancements and leverage them to enhance our everyday experiences.

A Wi-Fi 6 router may not be essential for those with a competent existing router, but it can significantly reduce the time spent on technology, allowing for more meaningful connections with loved ones.

If you're considering an upgrade to your router and wish to experience the benefits of Wi-Fi 6, I highly recommend exploring the ASUS RT-AX88U. It offers excellent performance, aesthetic appeal, and is reasonably priced.

Available for $349, I suggest comparing prices across various retailers, as discounts are often available.

Thank you for taking the time to read my insights on Medium.

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