jstand
jstand HalfDork
5/19/17 12:41 p.m.

I happened to noticed the wide variety of wireless routers when I was at Staples a couple days ago, and that some had marketing claims geared towards streaming content.

We have cable internet at home an a wifi router that supports b/g/n, but otherwise is fairly basic. According to charter their claims speed is 60 Mbps, and last time I checked with a speed test it seemed close, but when site like GRM load slowly I suspect something isn't right.

We tend to stream Amazon, Netflix, Youtube, and just surf the web. Most streaming is done on an Ipad mini (2 or 3), Amazon firestick, through the DVD player, or Ipod touch (current gen). Surfing is done on a Macbook, Windows PC, Iphone, or the devices used for streaming.

I've been trying to figure out if a new router with MU-MIMO would benefit the speeds/quality, or if it is technology that sounds cool, but won't make much difference.

Any info or education that you guys can provide would be appreciated.

Thanks.

GameboyRMH
GameboyRMH GRM+ Memberand MegaDork
5/19/17 1:11 p.m.

Technology that sounds cool but won't make much difference. What you want is the latest 802.11 standard, which is 802.11ac. That will make the most difference for devices that can take advantage of it. Ideally you want your router and all your devices to have 802.11ac wifi.

That said, the speed problems almost certainly have nothing to do with your wireless network, but with your Internet connection. Few Internet connections are faster than your wifi network can handle.

Look at it this way, your house is an island with decent streets (your wifi connection) and an 8-lane autobahn you might not be using (wired LAN) connected to the rest of the world by a rope bridge (typical North American home Internet connection).

jstand
jstand HalfDork
5/20/17 8:10 a.m.

Thanks, i figured it wasn't going make much of a difference, but wanted to ask people who understand more about it.

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