The best Cisco routers will have plenty of ports in the back for wired connections. Not only do they contain ethernet ports and USB ports, but they feature excellent dual-band support and extra security features. As a result, they will keep your connections safe and offer solid performance for a reliable connection.
Cisco routers are some of the best routers you can buy, and they’re ideal for large businesses and people who need a consistent internet connection for most of the day. That may include small businesses and people who work from your home office. However, these robust Cisco routers tend to be expensive, and these high costs can price some average or beginner users out of the market.
Keep reading to learn more about Cisco routers and how they work.
Top Cisco Routers
#1 Cisco RV110W-A-NA-K9 Router
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This three-in-one device incorporates the functions of a router, network switch, and virtual private network device, so it’s a good all-around solution for businesses. With a browser-based GUI, this device is easy to configure.
- Incredibly compact design
- Integrated 4-port switch
- Integrated firewall
- Complicated to configure
The Cisco RV110W-A-NA-K9 router is a secure network device that incorporates the functions of a router, VPN firewall, and network switch. This device has four Ethernet ports, providing robust switching. It connects to computers, printers, IP phones, and other devices, providing enhanced data transfer. We like the browser-based device manager on this unit for its intuitive design with easy-to-use setup wizards. However, getting the various functions of this device to work together is a bit complicated.
This Cisco RV110W-A-NA-K9 router has a high-speed 802.11n access point for super-fast wireless connectivity. It’s Ipv6-enabled, supporting modern internet and network technologies. This device has LED indicators to simplify troubleshooting. A WPS function enables fast configuration and connection. With a height of just 3.9 inches, this device is compact and easily fits on desks. It supports IP Security (IPsec and Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) VPN, providing secure remote connectivity.
#2 Cisco RV345 Router
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router has a TCP throughput of up to 900 Mbps, supporting multiple devices. With an incredible sixteen LAN ports, the device has excellent switching abilities and it has USB ports for thumb broadband modems.
- Super-fast double-Wide Area Network connectivity
- Has 16 WAN ports
- Two USB ports
- Challenging to configure
The Cisco RV345 router is an advanced three-in-one VPN router that will appeal to small business owners. This device offers high-speed Ethernet connectivity, featuring a TCP throughput of up to 900 Mbps.The device has an integrated VPN, facilitating secure interconnectivity. Protocols such as IPSec, Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP) over IPSec, and Cisco IPSec provide security. However, this device has complex functions and may be challenging to configure for some users.
This Cisco RV345 router has an astonishing 16 LAN ports, allowing organizations to connect entire workgroups. The device supports dual WAN, offering load balancing for multiple internet connections. Two USB ports enable plugging in a 4G modem into this device to tap broadband connections. This router also supports USB flash drives. With intuitive web-based and mobile network management tools, this device offers comprehensive configuration tools. It supports switching and routing, offering all-in-one network connectivity.
#3 Cisco RV260W Router
Award: BEST FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router features 802.11ac 3×3 Wave 2 technology, providing fast connectivity to bandwidth-hungry applications such as streaming. It has a built-in virtual private network and eight-port network switch.
- Blazing-speed 802.11ac 3×3 Wave 2 tech
- Gigabit Ethernet 8-port network switch
- Built-in VPN firewall
- Security functions sometimes block Wi-Fi
The Cisco RV260W router is a triple-function device with features of a router, VPN firewall, and network switch. With an integrated 8-port Gigabit Ethernet switch, this device enables connecting multiple devices in homes and small businesses. The device delivers 3×3 802.11ac Wave 2 Wi-Fi, offering high-speed connections suitable for streaming and other bandwidth-intensive applications. It has one Ethernet WAN/ SFP port. However, it takes time to configure properly.
This Cisco RV260W router supports setting up separate virtual local area networks (VLAN) for guest Wi-Fi. It supports IPsec VPN, providing secure remote-access connectivity. This device comes with one year of web filtering, to keep the network safe from a number of security threats. The device has LED indicators to let network administrators monitor network parameters and troubleshoot easily in case of issues. The router has a web GUI and mobile network management tools for comprehensive configuration.
#4 Cisco Linksys E1000 Router
Award: BEST FOR HOME OFFICES
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router provides wired and wire-free connectivity to homes and home offices. It has four 10/100 Mbps LAN ports, enabling users to connect computers, printers, and other devices.
- Sleek design
- Four LAN ports
- 300 Mbps data transfer speed
- Small coverage
The Cisco Linksys E1000 router delivers high-speed internet connections to homes and offices. This dual-band device supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering connection flexibility. With support for WPA-PSK and WPA2-PSK protocols, this router provides security. It has four 10/100 Mbps LAN ports for plugging to various devices. Featuring data transfer speeds of up to 300 Mbps, this device supports streaming, gaming, and web browsing. However, this router has a small coverage and is not adequate for large homes or offices.
This Cisco Linksys E1000 router has a sleek stylish design that will add a modern flair to any home or office. It features Network Address Translation (NAT) technology, allowing computers to share the internet through a single public IP address. This device comes with Linksys Connect software for fast configuration. It has a number of LED indicators to help users troubleshoot and configure. A WPS button automatically configures connections using secure settings.
#5 Cisco Linksys E2000 router
Award: BEST FOR APARTMENTS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This router has a dual-band selector, allowing users to deliver over 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands. With four Ethernet ports, this device lets consumers connect various wired devices for convenience
- Excellent dual-band connectivity
- 300 Mbps data transfer speed
- Guest access feature
- Low coverage
The Cisco Linksys E2000 router is a high-quality Wireless-N router that allows users to switch between 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. It uses multiple radios to create a robust network with strong signals. It has a guest-access feature, which offers network connectivity to new users without compromising security settings. The router supports connection speeds of up to 300 Mbps, making it a good choice for apartments and small offices. However, this device has a low coverage, so it’s not adequate for large homes.
This Cisco Linksys E2000 router has a stylish design that will add visual interest to the home or office. The device is compact, allowing easy placement on desks or drawers. Featuring four Ethernet ports, this router allows users to connect computers, printers, and other office devices. It also has a number of LED indicators on the front to alert users when there’s a connection issue, simplifying troubleshooting. With a web interface and software utility, this router is easy to set up.
#6 Cisco Linksys WRT54G2 Router
Award: BEST 2.4GHz
WHY WE LIKE IT: This Cisco router has a push button that provides fast, effortless installation. It has a 4-port network switch, simplifying connecting computers and printers in homes and small offices.
- Convenient push button configuration
- Integrated 4-port network switch
- Excellent security features
- Doesn’t connect devices on the 5GHz band
Users with broadband connections will appreciate the features of the Cisco Linksys WRT54G2 router. It has a wireless access point, connecting everything from computers to smartphones. This router also has an integrated four-port switch, which can come in handy for users with small offices. Featuring a push button, this device offers automatic configuration, helping users to save time. However, this Wireless-G 802.11g device only supports devices on the 2.4GHz band.
This Cisco Linksys WRT54G2 router uses the high-security Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) protocol to secure the network. It also has MAC address filtering and a powerful SPI firewall for security. With a sleek black design, this router will add visual interest to any office or home. It supports data transfer speeds of up to 54 Mbps, making it a good choice for regular office and home connectivity. With a Cisco setup wizard, this device is easy to configure on a computer.
Introduction to the Best Cisco Routers
If you’re looking for the best routers on the market, look no further than Cisco. Cisco has been a leading provider of networking equipment since 1984 and offers a wide range of routers to suit every need.
Cisco Systems started when two Stanford University students, Sandy Lerner and Len Bosack, developed the first multi-protocol router. They continued to grow the Cisco umbrella by acquiring smaller companies with exciting products of their own.
Cisco is now an international company with more than 53,000 employees working at 24 research centers worldwide. They offer many different types of routers so that you can find the perfect one for your needs. While many Cisco Enterprise Routers are meant for a business network, they offer a small selection of routers designed for home wireless access.
In addition to routers, Cisco offers products and services like network security, data center, and cloud solutions. They have IoT devices, software, collaboration tools, and a lot more. This wide range of products offers integrated services and comprehensive security over your entire network.
How Cisco Compares to Other Brands and Their Products
Pro 1: Cisco routers are some of the best on the market. They offer high-quality products at a wide range of price points and many different features. As a result, they appeal to both businesses and home users alike.
Con 1: Cisco routers tend to be more expensive than other brands. You can find a less expensive router from another brand, but it likely won’t have the same quality or features as a Cisco router.
Pro 2: Cisco’s routers are extremely easy to set up and use. All you have to do is plug the cables from your modem into the router and follow the on-screen instructions. Then, it only takes a few minutes to set up.
Con 2: Cisco’s routers don’t have the best range. If you need a router that can cover a large area, you might want to consider a different brand or set up a few range extenders to get better coverage in dead zones.
Pro 3: Cisco routers have an excellent interface. The dashboard is easy to use, and you can change the settings with just a few simple clicks. This makes them great for beginners because they take the guesswork out of configuration.
Con 3: Cisco routers occasionally have firmware issues. Sometimes, the router’s firmware will need to be updated, and if you’re not familiar with how to do this yourself, you’ll have a hard time getting it done.
Pro 4: Cisco offers excellent customer service. They have a team of experts who are available 24/7 to help you with any issues. They’re easy to contact and are very helpful.
Con 4: Cisco’s routers can be challenging to configure due to various advanced network settings. If you’re not familiar with networking basics, it might take some time to get the router set up the way you like it might take some time. So instead, you may want to read about the best Arris routers.
Pro 5: Cisco routers are very reliable and offer solid performance. They’re built to last and are unlikely to break down or fail. These are some of the highest quality routers on the market, and you’ll rarely need to replace them unless technology changes require it.
Con 5: Cisco routers are not always the best choice for homes or small businesses. They can be too expensive and overkill for a company that doesn’t need all the bells and whistles that Cisco offers. So instead, read about the best Eero routers if you’re looking for something a bit smaller and more stylish for your home.
Why Should You Buy a Cisco Router?
The biggest reason you should buy a Cisco router is that they are some of the best routers on the market. They’re built to last, are easy to use, and have a user-friendly interface so you can set up the router quickly.
Cisco routers are well worth the money because they have a solid reputation, come with excellent customer service, and are built to last. If you’re looking for a top-quality router that will meet your needs for years to come, a Cisco router is the best option.
Cisco routers include dual-band support, USB ports, and advanced security settings. They’re perfect for businesses that need a reliable and robust router, but you can also use them in homes with multiple devices that require a strong connection.
They are also compatible with software like Cisco Security Connector and Cisco Wireless Network Management so that you can get the most out of your router. That means you can take advantage of features like malware protection and traffic shaping to keep your network safe and running smoothly. This level of security is essential for large businesses but may also be effective for small companies or people who work from home and rely on a consistent internet connection.
How Long Will a Cisco Router Last?
While Cisco routers are incredibly reliable, you should know that they don’t last forever. Every router has a life span, and this life span will depend on how frequently you use it and what kinds of devices are connected to its network.
When you take proper care of your router, it can last for up to seven years without any problems. However, if you don’t maintain it and take care of it properly, it might only last a year or two.
It’s important to keep your router updated with the latest firmware and regularly check its performance. For example, if you notice that your internet connection is slowing down, your router might be to blame.
The other thing to consider is that while Cisco routers last a very long time, technology changes rapidly. So you may have to replace your Cisco router before it breaks, simply because it’s obsolete.
Cisco Warranty
Cisco offers a standard warranty for all of its routers. This warranty lasts one year and covers any manufacturing defects that might occur. If your router malfunctions within that year, Cisco will replace it for free.
Beyond the one-year warranty, you can invest in an extended warranty for Cisco routers. This covers your router for a total of three years and includes remote troubleshooting services, security updates, and firmware upgrades.
If you’re willing to pay the extra money, you can get a longer warranty covering your router for five years. This warranty is perfect for people who spend a lot of time on their computers and want to make sure they have a solid and reliable internet connection at all times.
