How to Choose a Wi-Fi Router for Apple Devices

Apple confirmed yesterday it had ended its production of AirPort base station devices, and shortly after it released a support document detailing what features you should look for in Wi-Fi routers to use with your Apple devices.

According to the company, “For the most compatibility, reliability, and performance when used with Apple devices, look for a Wi-Fi router that offers these features”:

• IEEE 802.11ac, which is the latest wireless-networking standard
• Simultaneous dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz), which allows the router to transmit over both frequencies at the same time, so no matter which band your wireless devices use, they automatically connect to the best available band for the fastest possible performance
• WPA2 Personal (AES) encryption, which is currently the strongest form of security available in a Wi-Fi router
• MIMO or MU-MIMO, which can offer improved performance when many devices use your Wi-Fi network simultaneously, you want to take full advantage of a high-speed Internet connection, or you need Wi-Fi coverage over a larger area

Apple says a single router is usually “suitable” for most homes, but for larger areas, mesh Wi-Fi setups are also something to consider.

It’s definitely sad that Apple has decided to abandon its AirPort hardware. If you’re looking for a mesh Wi-Fi setup, consider the Google Wifi as one of your picks, as it’s been excellent so far for us. Click here to read our review.