Are you a small business owner looking for the perfect router to enhance your network connectivity? Look no further, as we present to you the "8 Amazing Small Business Routers for 2023." In today's fast-paced world, a reliable and efficient internet connection is vital for the success of any business, irrespective of its size. With the constant advancements in technology, it is crucial to stay updated and choose a router that can meet the increasing demands of your business. This comprehensive list of eight exceptional small business routers for the year 2023 will help you make an informed decision and ensure seamless connectivity for your operations.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The TRENDnet Gigabit Multi-WAN VPN Business Router (TWG-431BR) is a powerful and reliable networking solution designed for small businesses. With its 5 x Gigabit ports and support for up to four separate WAN internet connections, this router provides efficient load-balancing to ensure optimal network performance. It also offers high availability network setup with router redundancy, minimizing downtime. The built-in VPN functionality allows for secure remote access to local area network resources, supporting various protocols for flexibility. Additionally, the router features content filtering capabilities for managing screen time and filtering web content. With its multiple management methods, including web browser, CLI, SSH, and Telnet, the router offers convenience and flexibility in managing your network. While the router is made in China with a plastic case, its performance and features make it a great option for small business applications.
Key Features
- 5 x Gigabit ports (Modes:4 WAN ports/1 LAN port or 1 WAN port/4 LAN ports), 1 x USB 3.0 port,1 x RJ-45 console port
- Load-balance traffic with up to four separate WAN internet connections
- Create a high availability network with router redundancy
- Create encrypted VPN tunnel for remote access using various protocols
- Manage screen time and content filtering
- Supports various management methods
- Comes with 3 Year TRENDnet Manufacturer's Warranty
- NDAA / TAA compliant (U.S. and Canada only)
Specifications
- Dimension: 10.40Lx7.28Wx1.75H
- Size: 5-Port
Pros
- Provides load-balancing for multiple WAN connections
- Allows for high availability network setup
- Offers encrypted VPN tunnel for remote access
- Comes with built-in content filtering
- Supports multiple management methods
Cons
- Made in China with a plastic case
- May require router reboot after power outages
- Limited configuration options for advanced users
Overall, the TRENDnet Gigabit Multi-WAN VPN Business Router is a solid networking solution for small businesses. It offers excellent load-balancing capabilities, high availability network setup, and secure remote access via VPN. The built-in content filtering is a useful feature for managing web content, and the multiple management methods provide flexibility in network management. Although it is made in China with a plastic case, the router’s performance and reliability make it a great choice for small business applications. With its affordable price point, it offers good value for the features it provides. However, advanced users may find the configuration options somewhat limited. All in all, the TRENDnet Gigabit Multi-WAN VPN Business Router is a reliable and cost-effective option for small businesses in need of a robust networking solution.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
The UTT ER520 4 WAN Ports Router is a reliable and cost-effective option for home and small business networks. With 4 WAN ports and 4 LAN ports, this router offers seamless connectivity and the ability to load balance and failover. It supports both IPSec and PPTP VPN protocols for secure remote access. The router also features access control and quality of service (QoS) capabilities, allowing you to prioritize network traffic. While the interface may be a bit old school and firmware support is lacking, the UTT ER520 router is a good enough device for basic networking needs.
Key Features
- SMB Router
- VPN (PPT/IPSec)
- 2 Wan 3 lan
- Load Balance
- Qo S
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 9.20Lx1.80Wx5.50H
- Size: 4 WAN + 4 LAN
Pros
- Affordable price
- Multiple WAN and LAN ports
- Supports VPN for secure remote access
- Load balancing and failover capabilities
- Access control and Qo S features
Cons
- Old school interface
- Lack of firmware support
- Limited manufacturer support
- No gigabit ports, only 100M
Despite some drawbacks, including the old interface and lack of firmware support, the UTT ER520 4 WAN Ports Router is a reliable and affordable option for small-scale networking needs. Its load balancing and failover capabilities, along with VPN support and access control features, make it a suitable choice for both home and small business users. However, if you require advanced features or gigabit connectivity, you may need to consider alternative options. Overall, the UTT ER520 router provides decent performance and functionality for its price range.
Overall Score: 7/10
The UTT ER840G is a reliable internet router designed for home and small business use. It features 4 WAN ports for load balancing and failover capabilities, allowing you to optimize and maintain a stable internet connection. With wired VPN support, you can ensure secure communication between your network and other devices. The router also offers access control to restrict unauthorized access and protect your data. It is compact in size and easy to set up, making it a convenient choice for users with limited technical knowledge. Despite its functionality, the router lacks a USB port and may have limited firmware updates and support. Overall, the UTT ER840G is a decent router with reliable performance and essential features for small-scale networking needs.
Key Features
- 4 WAN ports for load balancing and failover
- Wired VPN support for secure communication
- Access control to restrict unauthorized access
- Compact size and easy setup for convenience
Specifications
- Dimension: 8.60Lx5.30Wx1.20H
- Size: 4 WAN + 1 LAN
Pros
- Load balancing and failover capabilities
- Secure communication through VPN support
- Access control for data protection
- Compact and user-friendly design
Cons
- Lack of USB port
- Limited firmware updates and support
- Difficult to set up for some users
The UTT ER840G is a reliable internet router suitable for home and small business environments. It offers essential features like load balancing, failover, and wired VPN support to ensure stable and secure internet connectivity. The compact design and user-friendly interface make it convenient for users with limited technical knowledge. However, the router may be lacking in terms of firmware updates and support, and some users may find it challenging to set up. If you are in need of a versatile router for basic networking needs, the UTT ER840G can be a suitable choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
The TP-Link ER605 V2 Wired Gigabit VPN Router is a powerful networking device designed for small to medium-sized businesses. With five Gigabit ports and support for up to three WAN connections, this router optimizes bandwidth usage and provides reliable internet connectivity. It is integrated into the Omada SDN platform, enabling centralized cloud management of the network from anywhere. The router offers advanced security features, including firewall policies, VPN connections, and IP/MAC/URL filtering, ensuring the protection of your network and data. It also comes with a limited lifetime protection warranty and 24/7 technical support. With its robust performance and abundant features, the TP-Link ER605 V2 Wired Gigabit VPN Router is a reliable choice for businesses in need of secure and efficient networking.
Key Features
- Five Gigabit Ports
- Up to 3 WAN Ethernet Ports + 1 USB WAN
- Omada SDN Integrated
- Load Balance
- SPI Firewall
- Limited Lifetime Protection
Specifications
- Color: Silver
- Dimension: 6.22Lx3.94Wx1.00H
Pros
- Optimizes bandwidth usage
- Integrates into Omada SDN platform
- Advanced security features
- Supports multiple VPN connections
- Limited lifetime protection and 24/7 technical support
Cons
- Lack of visibility for WAN port problems
- Interface can be complicated for novices
The TP-Link ER605 V2 Wired Gigabit VPN Router is a reliable and feature-packed networking solution for small to medium-sized businesses. Its five Gigabit ports and support for multiple WAN connections ensure efficient bandwidth usage and reliable internet connectivity. The integration with the Omada SDN platform allows for centralized cloud management of the network, making it convenient for businesses with multiple sites. The router’s advanced security features provide protection against threats and the limited lifetime warranty offers peace of mind. However, the lack of visibility for WAN port issues and a complicated interface may pose challenges for inexperienced users. Overall, the TP-Link ER605 V2 is a highly recommended router for businesses in need of a secure and efficient networking solution.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Experience faster browsing, streaming, gaming, and downloading with the TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router. Equipped with Gigabit WiFi and powerful technologies, this router offers high-speed performance and extensive coverage throughout your home. It supports MU-MIMO and OFDMA to reduce congestion and ensure smooth connectivity for multiple devices. The router features improved vented areas for efficient heat dissipation and a USB 3.0 port for easy media sharing and private cloud storage. With TP-Link HomeShield, you can enjoy premium security services to keep your home network safe. This router works with all major internet service providers and is compatible with a modem. Upgrade your internet experience with the TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router.
Key Features
- Gigabit Wi Fi for 8K Streaming
- Full Featured Wi Fi 6 Router
- Connect More Devices
- Extensive Coverage
- More Vents, Less Heat
- USB Sharing
- TP-Link Home Shield
- Works with all internet service providers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 10.73Lx5.80Wx1.94H
Pros
- Fast and reliable performance
- Easy setup process
- Large Wi Fi coverage area
- USB port for media sharing
- Premium security features
Cons
- Initial setup issues with the app
- Need to separate networks for legacy devices
The TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router offers impressive performance, extensive coverage, and advanced security features. With Gigabit WiFi and powerful technologies, it ensures fast and reliable connectivity for all your devices. The router is easy to set up and comes with a USB port for convenient media sharing. Its large coverage area and improved heat dissipation make it a reliable option for homes of all sizes. While there may be some initial setup issues with the app, the overall performance and features of this router make it a great choice for upgrading your internet experience. Say goodbye to lag and buffering with the TP-Link AX5400 WiFi 6 Router.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
The Meraki Go Ethernet Router Firewall Plus is a cloud-managed stateful firewall and router that offers quick and easy setup through the Meraki Go mobile app or web portal. It provides peace of mind with website blocking, bandwidth prioritization, and usage limits. The hardware features site-to-site and client VPN for secure network access from anywhere, as well as 500+ Mbps firewall throughput and 4 additional LAN ports. There are no fees or licenses required, and you'll receive automatic security updates, mobile app and web portal management, and tech support. The router also offers increased protection with DNS-based security powered by Cisco Umbrella. With optional subscription, you can enable content filtering, anti-malware, anti-phishing, and C2C callbacks. The Meraki Go Ethernet Router Firewall Plus is a reliable and feature-packed solution for managing your network.
Key Features
- Quick and easy setup with mobile app or web portal
- Block websites, prioritize bandwidth, and set usage limits
- Site-to-site and client VPN for secure network access
- 500+ Mbps firewall throughput and 4 additional LAN ports
- Automatic security updates, management, and tech support
- DNS-based security with optional subscription for increased protection
Specifications
- Dimension: 9.41Lx5.12Wx1.06H
Pros
- Easy setup and management through mobile app or web portal
- Multiple admin support for network management
- Secure access to network from anywhere with VPN
- Fast firewall throughput and additional LAN ports
- Automatic security updates and tech support included
- Optional subscription for advanced content filtering and security
Cons
- Firewall apparently requires a hard-to-buy subscription
- Limited support from Cisco for Meraki Go products
- Configuration can only be done through the app, not browser
- No dedicated Meraki VPN client available
- Subscription required for advanced features and content filtering
The Meraki Go Ethernet Router Firewall Plus is a solid solution for managing your network with its easy setup and management features through the mobile app or web portal. It offers reliable security, fast firewall throughput, and the flexibility of VPN access. However, the requirement of a separate subscription for advanced features may be a drawback for some users. Additionally, limited support from Cisco for Meraki Go products and the need to configure the router through the app instead of a browser may be inconvenient for certain users. Overall, it is a good choice for small businesses or home networks that require a cloud-managed firewall and router.
Overall Score: 7/10
The Order Logbook is an essential tool for small businesses, retail stores, and offices to track sales orders efficiently. It offers a convenient and organized way to record and manage order information. With its user-friendly design, this logbook helps businesses keep track of customer orders, product details, and delivery information. The logbook's compact and portable size makes it easy to carry and store. Whether you're a small business owner or managing sales in a retail store or office, the Order Logbook is a reliable and practical solution to streamline your order tracking process.
Key Features
- Efficiently track sales orders
- User-friendly design
- Record customer orders, product details, and delivery information
- Compact and portable size
Specifications
- Dimension: 8.50Lx0.25Wx11.00H
Pros
- Convenient and organized order tracking
- User-friendly and intuitive design
- Compact and portable for easy carrying
Cons
The Order Logbook is a valuable tool for small businesses, retail stores, and offices that need a simple yet effective way to track sales orders. Its user-friendly design and compact size make it a practical choice for managing order information on the go. Whether you’re a store owner keeping track of customer orders or an office manager coordinating sales, this logbook offers convenience, organization, and efficiency. While it may not have any notable downsides, some users might prefer a digital or software-based solution. Overall, the Order Logbook is a reliable and handy resource for businesses in need of a physical order tracking system.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The TP-Link AX5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX75) is a high-performance router that offers super-fast WiFi speeds for browsing, streaming, gaming, and downloading. With its Tri-Band technology, it utilizes separate bands to reduce interference and ensure fast and reliable connections. It is equipped with a powerful quad-core processor to handle heavy throughput and eliminate latency. The router features 6 high-performance antennas, beamforming, and high-power FEM for broader coverage. It also supports OneMesh, allowing you to create a seamless whole-home network. Additionally, it comes with VPN server and client capabilities, as well as TP-Link HomeShield security services for a protected network. Compatible with all internet service providers, the TP-Link AX5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6 Router is a reliable and feature-packed option for enhancing your home network.
Key Features
- Super-Fast Tri-Band Wi Fi 6
- Powerful Quad-Core Processing
- Broader Coverage with 6 high-performance antennas
- One Mesh Supported
- VPN Server and Client
- TP-Link Home Shield Premium Security Services
- Compatible with all internet service providers
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 12.90Lx10.40Wx4.80H
Pros
- High-speed Wi Fi for multiple devices
- Reduced interference with Tri-Band technology
- Powerful processor for smooth performance
- Broad coverage with high-performance antennas
- Seamless whole-home network with One Mesh support
- Advanced security services for network protection
- Compatible with all internet service providers
Cons
- Limited range compared to some other models
The TP-Link AX5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX75) is a reliable and feature-packed router that offers high-speed WiFi for browsing, streaming, gaming, and downloading. With its powerful quad-core processor, it can handle heavy throughput and ensure smooth performance. The Tri-Band technology reduces interference and allows for fast and reliable connections. The router also offers broader coverage with its high-performance antennas and supports OneMesh, which enables you to create a seamless whole-home network. Additionally, it includes advanced security services for network and IoT protection. While it may have limited range when compared to some other models, the TP-Link AX5400 Tri-Band WiFi 6 Router is a great choice for enhancing your home network.
Small Business Router Buyer's Guide
Purchasing a small business router can be a daunting task with a wide array of options available in the market. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a comprehensive buyer's guide. Whether you are starting a new business or upgrading your existing network setup, this guide will assist you in selecting the right small business router that fits your needs.
Factors to Consider
When evaluating small business routers, keep the following factors in mind:1. Internet Speed Requirements
- Determine the required bandwidth for your business. Consider both the current and future needs of your organization to ensure a router that can handle your internet speed requirements.
2. Number of Users
- Identify the number of devices and concurrent users that will be accessing your network. This will help you select a router with the appropriate capacity and performance to accommodate all your users smoothly.
3. Network Security Features
- Prioritize network security to protect your sensitive business data. Look for routers that offer features such as firewall protection, VPN support, intrusion prevention, content filtering, and secure guest networks.
4. Wired and Wireless Connections
- Consider the types of connections you require. Determine if your network demands wired connections or if wireless connectivity is sufficient. Look for routers that offer a balance between wired Ethernet ports and wireless capabilities.
5. Scalability and Future Expansion
- Assess your business's growth potential and ensure your router can handle future expansion. Opt for a router that offers advanced features like VLAN support, multiple LAN ports, and QoS (Quality of Service) to handle increased traffic and network demands.
6. Budget
- Determine your budget range and compare the available options to ensure you get the best value for your investment. Consider long-term costs, such as maintenance and updates, to make an informed decision.
7. Brand Reputation and Support
- Research the reputation of the router manufacturer, and consider the availability of customer support services. Choosing a reputable brand ensures greater reliability, performance, and assistance in case of technical issues.
8. Ease of Setup and Management
- Look for routers that offer user-friendly setup and management interfaces. Consider whether you have the technical expertise to handle advanced router configurations or if you require a simpler, plug-and-play solution.
9. Additional Features
- Evaluate additional features based on your business needs. This could include support for VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services, remote management capabilities, USB ports for file sharing or network printers, or compatibility with IoT (Internet of Things) devices.
10. Reviews and Recommendations
- Research and read reviews from reputable sources and other small business owners to gain insights into the performance and reliability of different router models. Real-world experiences can provide valuable information for making an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions about 8 Amazing Small Business Router for 2023
While consumer-grade routers may suffice for small businesses with minimal network demands, a small business router offers advanced features and greater scalability to accommodate future growth.
Enterprise-grade routers are typically designed for larger organizations with complex networks. They can be costly and may have unnecessary features for small businesses. It is advisable to choose a router specifically designed for small business needs.
Wired routers primarily provide Ethernet connectivity for wired devices, while wireless routers offer both wired and wireless connectivity options, allowing devices to connect over Wi-Fi.
Network security is crucial for small businesses to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access. A small business router with robust security features will help safeguard your network and mitigate potential risks.
Most small business routers provide firmware updates, allowing you to upgrade and enhance the router’s performance, security, and stability. Regularly updating the firmware is recommended for optimal router functionality.