Wi-Fi mesh systems are for folks willing to pay a little more for two primary benefits: easy basic setup, and whole-home Wi-Fi coverage. (Check out our Wi-Fi 6 explainer for more in-depth information first.) There are still plenty of capable Wi-Fi 5 routers out there that will handle light to moderate networking needs, but if you want the latest technology and the performance it brings, you’ll want to go with a Wi-Fi 6 router. When choosing a router, you’ll have to decide whether you want a Wi-Fi 6 router, a Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) router, or a Wi-Fi mesh system. All these buying guides contain our best and latest reviews in each category with every player completing PC Labs' wireless router testing suite. If you're looking for the fastest possible pipe with which to enjoy video gaming, then check out our gaming routers guide. If you're still looking to make a purchase, check out our wireless router buying guide (link above) or, if you're looking for something a little cheaper, try our budget routers roundup, which consists of our top players under $100.

These steps assume that you've already found the right router for your home. Follow these basic steps to properly configure your router and optimize your wireless network. Just because you've plugged in everything and all the blinking lights have turned green doesn't mean your network's performance and its security are as good as they could be. While networking-gear makers have been making installation utilities easier to use over the years, getting the best out of your new wireless router purchase usually means delving a little deeper than the standard installation routine will go.

Wireless router for mac reviews