How Often Should You Replace Your Router? Recommendations for Router Products

The frequency of rebooting and replacing routers has always been a topic of interest for many users. We've previously discussed how often you should reboot your router. Now, let's explore the recommended replacement intervals for routers.

A common consensus is that routers don't need to be replaced as frequently as smartphones or computers. However, regular router replacement can ensure optimal network security and performance.

Routers, being electronic devices, typically operate 24/7, and their performance and stability will gradually decline over time. The average lifespan of routers on the market is around 3-5 years. In practice, many households tend to replace their routers only when they malfunction.

There are two main reasons to consider replacing a router:

• If the router experiences unstable signals, slower speeds, frequent crashes, or has been in use for a long time, it might be time for an upgrade.
• As technology evolves and new network protocols emerge, newer routers may offer higher speeds and more advanced features, improving the network experience. Therefore, if a household or business has high demands for network speed, stability, and security, regular router replacement is advisable.

The choice of a home router generally depends on individual needs and budget. For guidance on selecting a router, click here: What to Consider When Choosing a Router.

Based on market recommendations and brand popularity, here are some top home router brands for your consideration:

• MI/Xiaomi: Xiaomi routers are known for their cost-effectiveness and rich features. The Xiaomi Router AX3000, for example, boasts high speeds and the ability to network multiple devices, as well as supporting smart home functions.
• HUAWEI: HUAWEI routers are praised for their stability and extensive signal coverage, making them suitable for home use. The Huawei Router AX3 Pro, in particular, offers great value for money with its WiFi6 capabilities and wide signal coverage.
• TP-LINK: TP-LINK's home router lineup is diverse, catering to the needs of various households. The TL-XDR3010 Expandable Version, for instance, has received positive reviews for its performance and versatility.
• ASUS: ASUS routers are generally regarded as high-end, with excellent performance, stability, and expandability. They also support various advanced features, such as gaming acceleration and VPN services, making them suitable for users with demanding network requirements.
• NETGEAR: NETGEAR routers are known for their solid performance and stability, supporting various networking protocols and high-speed transmission. They also offer a range of features and expandability options, such as VPN services, remote management, and smart home control. Additionally, NETGEAR provides optimization features for gaming and multimedia applications, such as QoS (Quality of Service) control and media servers.
• LINKSYS: LINKSYS routers are renowned for their good signal coverage and transmission performance, meeting the needs of home networks. They also support various smart home control functions, allowing seamless integration and collaboration with other smart devices.

In addition to the above brands, Tenda, Mercury, CISCO, and Google Nest also offer various models and performance levels of home routers. For a comprehensive list of router brands, click here: Router Brand List. When choosing, it's recommended to consider your budget, home network requirements, and house layout comprehensively. Before making a purchase, check if the product's specifications and features meet your needs, and make a final decision based on user reviews and other information.