What Distinguishes a Business Router from a Consumer Router?

If you are on the market looking for a router for your business, you are tempted by the high speeds, the flashy functionality and the low cost of consumer routers. The latest models seem nothing short of attractive.

But do you think that a consumer router can provide everything an average business needs? Do you think it’s safe enough? Is it scalable and can it offer redundant Internet connections? If it is a wireless model, do you think it has an adequate range to cover your desk? Should you invest in routers designed to meet the needs of small and medium-sized businesses?

What exactly distinguishes from consumer Routers Business class models?

Consumer Router

As soon as you enter a store, you will find a dozen wireless routers available at variable prices. These are offered by well-known brands and the prices at which they are available are also very attractive. They also have all the required features.

• Compatibility with the IEEE 802.11n wireless network standard
• Integrated firewall
• Wireless encryption
• 4-port Ethernet switch

Most routers here include 2 × 2 antenna arrays for theoretical 300 Mbps throughput. It's difficult to see the real-world performance so quickly. However, the distance between the router and the client, the overhead costs and environmental factors can reduce this number.

Small Business Router

You might be surprised to learn that most business-class routers don't even include an integrated wireless network. If the selected router does not have one, you can add this functionality by distributing some wireless access points. High-end professional routers offer redundancy, scalability, and advanced security features.

Scalability defines the router's ability to grow with business growth. It is quite easy to extend the wired capabilities of a particular network. Another multiport Ethernet switch can be connected to one of the ports on the router.

You now have multiple doors.

If you manage a complex network that includes multiple VLANs, a RADIUS server and several other features, you may need to invest in a Managed Router.

The best way to increase Internet bandwidth is to get additional connections to the ISP through the Wide Area Network (WAN) ports on the router. While professional low-end routers and consumer routers have a single WAN port, high-end business-class routers have multiple WAN ports to help you establish multiple connections to one or more ISPs.

Since the router is the heart of the network, it is necessary to choose it carefully. Any router can share the connection between your computers and other network devices such as tablets and smartphones. The best models include features that can improve network and performance. Here are some features you should look for when you find a commendable Business Class Router.