TP-Link, a well-established Chinese company, has made its mark by providing millions of Americans with reliable and cost-effective routers and mesh Wi-Fi systems. Despite its popularity, the company is under scrutiny, with the U.S. Departments of Justice, Defense, and Commerce investigating its operations. This inquiry stems from alleged connections to China-backed cyberattacks, targeting both governmental and non-governmental entities.
Thomas Pace, CEO of NetRise, a cybersecurity firm, expressed to CNET, “People expect there to be some smoking gun or something in these devices from Chinese manufacturers, and what you end up finding is the exact same problems in every device. It’s not like the Chinese devices are glaringly insecure. That’s not the risk. The risk is in the corporate structure of every Chinese company.” This highlights a broader issue of trust and security in the corporate governance of companies tied to geopolitical hotspots.
As the fate of TP-Link hangs in the balance, with the brand accounting for 65% of router sales in the U.S. as reported by The Wall Street Journal, users are rightly concerned about the future of their home and office networks.
Top Router Brands to Consider
Asus: The Gamer’s Delight
Asus stands out with its high-performance routers, often resembling something out of a sci-fi movie, and targeted primarily at gamers. Known for their robust processing capabilities, Asus routers like the Asus RT-BE96U BE19000 offer cutting-edge technology with speeds up to 19Gbps, dual 10Gb WAN/LAN ports, and advanced Wi-Fi 7 support, priced at a premium. For those seeking a balance between performance and price, the Asus RT-AX86U Pro provides a powerful yet affordable alternative with ample features for gaming and home use.
Netgear: Versatility Across the Board
Netgear offers a wide range of routers, catering to both general users and tech enthusiasts. The Netgear Nighthawk series, for instance, boasts models like the RS700S with Wi-Fi 7 and speeds up to 19Gbps. For those with more modest needs, the Netgear R6700AX provides reliable Wi-Fi 6 coverage at a more accessible price point. Additionally, Netgear’s innovative designs, such as the Orbi Voice, combine router functionality with smart speaker capabilities.
Eero: Seamless Mesh Networking
As an Amazon brand, Eero provides easy-to-set-up mesh systems that enhance Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. The Eero 6+ system is particularly notable for its ability to cover large areas and support multiple devices, making it ideal for busy households. For those needing higher bandwidths, the Eero Max 7 supports up to 10Gbps, catering to the most demanding network environments.
Securing Your Network
Even if the TP-Link ban does not materialize, securing your network remains a priority. For TP-Link users and others alike, here are a few tips:
- Replace ISP-provided routers with more secure, third-party options.
- Regularly update passwords and firmware to protect against unauthorized access.
- Implement additional security measures such as firewalls and Wi-Fi encryption to safeguard against potential cyber threats.
As we navigate these uncertain times, staying informed about the security and capabilities of your networking equipment is crucial. Whether TP-Link remains a viable option or not, the market offers numerous alternatives that can meet the diverse needs of consumers while ensuring greater peace of mind in matters of online security.
