When you are thinking of getting Google Fiber, the most lingering question on your mind will be which router to use. Will the router I have work well with Google Fiber? Must I only use Google hardware in order to get the best service? Well, today we delve a bit deeper into what Google Fiber is, and then tell you our top 3 contenders for the Best Router for Google Fiber.
Best Router for Google Fiber – Comparison Table
Here is a summary of the top 3 best routers for Google Fiber:
| Top 3 Best Routers for Google Fiber | |
|---|---|
| 1. Google Wifi System (Our recommendation) | |
| 2. Ubiquiti EdgeMax EdgeRouter Lite ERLite-3 | |
| 3. Mikrotik Routerboard RB2011UiAS-2HnD-IN |
So, what is Google Fiber?
Obviously, Google has become a household name. As far as innovation is concerned, Google leads the way among the world’s leading tech giants. From offering the most advanced search engine to offering map solutions, Google has ventured into almost all fields imaginable.
When it comes to internet and cable TV service, Google has mandated its Google Fiber arm with the responsibility of offering one of the most reliable services. Google Fiber boasts of a jaw-dropping 1000Mbps. You don’t need to be told how fast this is considering you can do just fine with even 20Mbps.
Consider buffering a thing of the past. With such high speeds, music/video streaming, downloads and uploads will only take seconds no matter how ‘huge’ the files are.
As part of the package, Google offers you a Network Box that allows you to connect all your devices to the internet. As an option, you may also use it to get connected to TV.
Is it a must that you use Google’s hardware?
Being offered as part of the package, you expect the Google Network Box to serve you right. Of course, it will work very well with Google fiber, but you may need your own router for some reasons I am going to elaborate. Moreover, you may already be having a router that you just don’t want to throw away.
There are a few reasons why you need to use your own router, or even get another router as an addition to Google’s Network Box.
Why you may need another router
i) An additional router will help you reach those areas in your house where the signal seems a bit low. All you need to do is to connect your other router to the Network Box using Ethernet. Then, set the router to Access Point Mode and you are sorted.
ii) Using a router will help you get the most of the 1000Mbps connection. In order to get high speeds (802.11 ac), you may need to replace the box with a router or use it as a compliment to the Network Box.
iii) When you are quite the tech guy and you want to customize your routing options, you definitely need to get your own router. The Network Box is certainly not as customizable as you would like.
In terms of adding your own router, it is very easy to connect to the Network Box since it acts as a router and an access point. However, replacing the box completely with your own router may prove quite a challenge if you are not tech-savvy. You may need to get hold of a professional to do that for you.
Nonetheless, you really do not have to replace the box. We recommend that you get another router only as a compliment. Unless you know your way around internet connections of course J.
What’s the Best Router for Google Fiber 2024?
Now that we have looked at the overview of Google Fiber and why you may need a different router, let’s get down to business.
Which routers make it to our podium? These the best routers for Google Fiber 2024:
1. Google Wifi System – best router for Google Fiber
Normally, If you bought a Samsung TV, you naturally tend to go with a Samsung soundbar. At the back of your mind, you are almost sure that the quality will be good. Also, seamless integration is almost guaranteed.
The same goes for using the Google Wifi System with Google Fiber. It is quite easy to connect it to the Network Box provided.
You have the option buying either one Wi-Fi point or a set of three. The single point covers up to 1,500 sq. ft. while the set of 3 covers up to 4,500 sq. ft. In addition, it has the Network Assist feature which selects the best channels to ensure fast connection on all your devices.
Amazingly, the Google Wifi System comes with Family control which allows you to pause Wi-Fi on specific devices. This means that when you want, like at night, you can pause Wi-Fi on your kids’ devices.
Lastly, the designer must have had a passion for fashion. The Google Wifi System design is a thing of beauty! I wish they had a set of 5!
Click here to see the price.
This YouTube video by Google shows you how to set up the Google Wifi System:
2. Ubiquiti EdgeMax EdgeRouter Lite ERLite-3
This router has proven useful for both the basic home use, as well as for more complicated business needs. For a basic user, there is a graphical interface where you can see your network’s working. For a pro, a CLI (command line interface) is available for advanced configuration.
This gigabit router also possesses an array of features that make it stand out. These include QoS (Quality of Service), OSPF RIP and BGP routing protocols, and a IPv6 support.
Unlike the Google Wifi System, connecting the Ubiquiti EdgeMax EdgeRouter to the Network Box is a bit complicated if you are not a pro. We advise that you get help from a professional in setting up your home or office network. However, if you feel that you must do it yourself, you can follow this guide on how to replace your Network Box with the EdgeRouter.
Click here to see its latest price.
3. Mikrotik Routerboard RB2011UiAS-2HnD-IN
Lastly, we have the Mikrotik Routerboard RB2011UiAS-2HnD-IN, just one of the many high-quality routers being made and sold by Mikrotik. Mikrotik has been in the industry for over 20 years now, making a wide range of routers and wireless ISP systems.
Needless to say, this router serves as a very good compliment to the Network Box, and with its outstanding features, you won’t go wrong.
It has various fantastic features to take your internet experience to the next level. These include an LCD touchscreen for easy configuration, a desktop enclosure as well as power supply. Also, it uses a powerful RouterOS, dynamic routing, firewall, VPN, hotspot, VPN, MPLS and an advanced QoS (Quality of Service).
Moreover, you have the freedom to connect as many devices as possible to its 10 Ethernet ports.
Click here to see its latest price.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, routers are some of the coolest gadgets one needs in the house. In regards to fast internet, you can’t go wrong with Google Fiber. With Google’s promise of 1000Mbps connection, you can live life to the fullest. Download movies, watch what you want online, and upload files with ease.
As outlined above, to get the most out of Google Fiber you may need to buy a router. Take your pick among any of the top 3 routers for Google Fiber and you won’t regret it. Just to reiterate, we recommend the Google Wifi System simply because it is easy to use owing to its seamless compatibility with Google Fiber.
The Ubiquiti EdgeMax EdgeRouter Lite ERLite-3 and Mikrotik Routerboard RB2011UiAS-2HnD-IN may need a bit of networks setup know-how. So, if you feel you are not able to do it yourself or follow an online guide, it won’t hurt to let a professional do it for you.
These are the top 3 best routers for Google Fiber in 2024:
- Google Wifi System
- Ubiquiti EdgeMax EdgeRouter Lite ERLite-3
- Mikrotik Routerboard RB2011UiAS-2HnD-IN
Any other router that you feel would work perfectly with Google Fiber? Let’s discuss in the comments section below.