Can anyone give me help selecting a router?

[Deleted]

I think I'd rather buy one than rent one (our providers is garbage and keeps shutting off) but I don't know where to start. I've checked out reviews online but how do I know what I should get?  I do work from home occasionally so I need it to be secure, consistent and fast.  I also want it to allow wireless for iPads and iPhones.  Can anyone more techy than me help?

Is the ASUS RT-N66U ok?  There is a newer version too.  

[july]

www.bestbuy.com/site/linksys-wireless-n-router-with-4-port-ethernet-switch-black/6571476.p?id=1218760170282&skuId=6571476

I just bought this in December when ours went out. We have tablets, laptops, bluray player, and phones connected to it with no problem. Setup was easy through the laptop.

[july]

I bought and returned a more expensive model, because I realized that the faster speed was overkill since I have the base internet speed.

[moolarkey]

We also have a linksys, have had it for years. Easy to set up, we have connect everything through it.

[gibbinator]

All routers will allow apple devices to connect.
When looking at specs, make sure it's a wireless N router if you want maximum speeds. (usually it's designated 802.11 BGN on the box. Just make sure the N is there. 90% of routers sold these days are). Same thing with wpa2-psk encryption.

Unless you're hardcore Internet users,(gaming online, streaming video to multiple devices simultaneously, running servers, etc.) , you don't really need anything expensive. If you go with a cheap to mid-priced router from any of the top brands (linksys, d-link, belkin, trendnet,... ) you should be happy with it.

You'll still need to rent a modem from the Internet provider even if you buy your own router.

[pamela]

Mar 1, 2015 8:09:57 GMT -5 gibbinator said:

All routers will allow apple devices to connect.
When looking at specs, make sure it's a wireless N router if you want maximum speeds. (usually it's designated 802.11 BGN on the box. Just make sure the N is there. 90% of routers sold these days are). Same thing with wpa2-psk encryption.

Unless you're hardcore Internet users,(gaming online, streaming video to multiple devices simultaneously, running servers, etc.) , you don't really need anything expensive. If you go with a cheap to mid-priced router from any of the top brands (linksys, d-link, belkin, trendnet,... ) you should be happy with it.

You'll still need to rent a modem from the Internet provider even if you buy your own router.

No, you don't. You can buy a combo modem / router. Just make sure it's the right type (DSL or cable).

[gibbinator]

Unless things are different in the states (which is very possible), if you go the combo modem/router approach as pamela suggests, you'll have to check with your Internet provider what models they'll be able to activate on their network. The telecom company I used to work for would only activate 3 different models.

[pamela]

Mar 1, 2015 8:33:42 GMT -5 gibbinator said:

Unless things are different in the states (which is very possible), if you go the combo modem/router approach as pamela suggests, you'll have to check with your Internet provider what models they'll be able to activate on their network. The telecom company I used to work for would only activate 3 different models.

I think most here accept a wide variety of the major brands. Never found one not listed. Your provider should have a list on their website of what works.