Learn about 5G NR router and D-Link's WiFi Exo router

At the CES 2019 technology show, D-Link introduced a new series of Exo mesh smart router and McAfee security suite. D-Link also introduced its first 5G router.

EXO mesh Wifi routers

A Wifi mesh router will consist of one or more access points, providing signals for a wide area. This is useful for large or large areas of Wifi interceptors, such as concrete walls or ceilings. In contrast to the Wifi extenders that are not mesh types (creating separate networks), the Wifi mesh network is a unified whole, meaning that users can seamlessly move between different access points.

5 Exo routers in this new series support 10 or more access points. D-Link, though giving out information is unlimited, said it has not been thoroughly tested. In the test area of ​​D-Link, this setting covers an area of ​​about 5000 square feet (465 square meters), but the actual results will vary depending on the environment.

Exo AC1300 is a dual-band router, while high-end AC3200 is a tri-band type.

1. What is a dual-band and tri-band router?

For ease of use, the Exo routers use the WPS button (this is a button on the router, just press it to set it) for Wifi Protected Setup (WPS). The problem with this convenient solution is that anyone who has access to this button can access the network. So make sure the router is secure to prevent unwanted access.

McAfee security suite

All Exo routers offer a five-year free security package that supports McAfee's Cloud-based Machine learning feature.

The software is preinstalled on all routers in this series. It protects all connected devices from external threats, using artificial intelligence to detect McAfee's global threats.

Users can manage their network security, including parental control settings or listing black sites, via the McAfee application.

The expected release date for these new Exo routers is Q2 of 2019 and prices will range from $ 170 to $ 190 (VND 3,940,000 - VND 4,400,000). Access points are sold separately and will cost up to $ 100 (2,300,000VND).

Router 5G NR

D-Link also introduced 5G routers. 5G mobile Internet is the highlight at CES this year. In addition to making mobile Internet faster, the 5G network promises to replace traditional wired broadband Internet.

With 5G NR, users will no longer need a traditional ISP. D-Link hopes that mobile Internet service providers will equip routers with integrated SIM cards and sell directly to consumers. At the moment, the company has no plans to release an unlocked version of the 5G NR, although D-Link says that will depend on users' needs. D-Link did not give any information about prices for 5G 'home' Internet service packages.

A potential advantage of the 5G home Internet router is that users can take with them wherever they go and connect to the Internet, as long as ISP provides 5G network. In other words, the user may not have to change the ISP when moving.

The first release for the 5G NR is expected to be in the third or fourth quarter of 2019. However, it should be noted that its speed may not be as fast as you expect unless the place you live is available 5G .

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