You are probably shopping or contemplating buying a router for Verizon Fios, as opposed to paying a monthly rental fee.
Choosing to buy a router instead of renting makes economic sense in the long run. This is because owning a router gives you the freedom to select one that is best suited for Verizon Fios and saves you money in the long run. The option also gives you more control over advanced settings, so you can manage the performance of your router, giving you the ultimate internet experience.
Essentially, the benefits of buying outweigh what you get from renting. If finding the best routers for Verizon Fios seems challenging considering there are many router brands in the market, worry not; we got you covered.
If you are in a rush, here’s a quick look at our best picks:
NETGEAR Nighthawk Wi-Fi Router (R7000)- Best Value
TP-Link AC1750 Smart Wi-Fi Router- Most Popular
NETGEAR Nighthawk RAX40 Wi-Fi 6 Router- Best Budget
Best Routers for Verizon Fios Overviews: Top Picks
TP-Link AC1750 Smart Wi-Fi Router
Your budget may not allow you to only focus on expensive routers. Luckily, there are cost-friendly routers you can choose from, including the TP-Link AC1750. However, keep in mind that it does not have numerous features because it is low-priced, but its performance is satisfactory.
The TP-Link AC1750 design is relatively simple, coming in black with three antennas. The option to turn off the LED lights is quite exciting because it means you can have the router in your bedroom without being annoyed by the blinking lights.
I like the fact that this router offers the choice to block unwanted websites. It runs through 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands. The 2.4GHz can handle simple tasks such as web browsing or e-mails, while the 5GHz band can work on bandwidth-intensive operations like HD video streaming and online gaming.
What I did not like about this router is that its USB port is 2.0 rather than 3.0. It is ideal for a single-story house that does not exceed 2500 square feet. Setting it up is effortless, so you can have it operating within a few minutes.
Pros
- It is ideal for small spaces.
- Budget-friendly.
- A good router for parental controls.
- Quick, easy installation.
- It delivers excellent performance.
Cons
- The performance decreases at range.
- It only has a 2.0 USB port.
NETGEAR Nighthawk RAX40 Wi-Fi 6 Router
Nighthawk series routers are usually high-end or mid-range, and the RAX40 falls under the mid-range section. It is one of the slim and compact routers the nighthawk series has to offer. Despite its relatively low price, this router offers respectable performance and an eye-catching design.
I liked that it is Wi-Fi 6, so it offers up to 4X more device capacity and faster speeds than Wi-Fi 5. Due to this, ultra HD 4K/8K streaming and other activities can be done seamlessly. While it is less compact than other routers, the RAX40 can be mounted on a wall, so it does not have to take up a table or desk space.
There are five Ethernet ports (Gigabit) on the router’s back, which facilitate wired connections to game consoles, Samsung Smart TV, computers, and other devices. Since the RAX40 does not include a modem, you must connect one of the Ethernet ports with an existing broadband modem or router to get internet access.
A minor complaint I have with this router’s design is the two antennas’ fragile nature. To be safe, keep it in a high self away from curious pets and young kids.
Pros
- It can handle multiple devices.
- It’s wall-mountable.
- It has a responsive, user-friendly mobile app.
Cons
- Bulky
- The 2.4GHz band can be faulty in some networks
Related: Netgear N300 Range Extender Overview
NETGEAR Nighthawk Wi-Fi Router (R7000)
The R7000 has all the essential features to enjoy fiber optic internet fully. It comes with remarkable design elements that I liked, including the 2.0 and 3.0 USB ports to get shared connection or storage and three extended antennas, which can be pointed in different directions to offer a broad range.
It can support up to 30 devices simultaneously, making it ideal if you live in a smart home with smart doorbells, cameras, and other devices.
Breaking down the R7000’s 1900Mbps gives you 1300Mbps and 600Mbps on the 5GHz and 2.4GHz, respectively. The speed will maintain a seamless connection when browsing or streaming a game or movie.
The R7000 should offer a reliable internet connection to an average home since its coverage extends up to 1800 sq. ft. and the Beamforming + strengthens the connection. If you are an Amazon user, you will control the router’s functioning efficiently through Alexa.
I liked that its vents are situated at an angle on the sides to keep the device cool continuously. It is also compatible and connects with Verizon Fios. However, you will have to look elsewhere and increase your budget if you want MU-MIMO technology and tri-band.
Pros
- Smart parental controls.
- Complete VPN capability.
- The 5GHz provides excellent throughput.
- Intelligent design.
Cons
- Less than desirable 2.4GHz band throughput.
Google Wi-Fi System, 3 Pack Router
Google arguably has the sleekest router units as every unit is simple and cylinder-shaped with a centered white LED band. Any unit can serve as the system’s core router, while the rest can extend the signal wirelessly or through the Ethernet ports.
Although the Google Wi-Fi system does not offer in-depth access compared to other routers like Netgear Orbi, it automatically handles the scenes, including band switching. Using an Android or iOS app, you can set it up effortlessly.
I found the additional settings quite impressive. They include the ability to continuously monitor the connected devices, points, and the network itself and speed tests like the mesh test to measure the connection points’ health, and WiFi test to measure the network’s strength.
It offers some of the most sophisticated and complete control suites I’ve seen in a WiFi mesh system. Traffic prioritization ensures that devices that require critical bandwidth like gaming consoles are prioritized.
I did not like that it does not offer AC2200 or AC3000 throughput, but that should be expected from WiFi mesh systems.
Pros
- The Beamforming raises the WiFi signal’s stability and range.
- The parental controls prevent access to inappropriate content.
- It delivers strong signals throughout a home.
- A simple design
Cons
- Every connected device must support 5GHz to enjoy the highest speed.
Linksys WRT3200ACM Wireless Wi-Fi Router
The WRT3200ACM has plenty of impressive qualities like superb performance, slick software, old-school design, and the option to install third-party firmware. Many consumers love the classic design used by Linksys in this router.
One of its most important features is MU-MIMO data streaming which allows sending data simultaneously instead of sequentially. It also comes with tri-stream 160 tech, which doubles the 5GHz band’s 80MHz channel width, and four external antennas that are removable and adjustable.
The WRT3200ACM operates using a dual-core 1.8GHz processor and utilizes the latest 802.11ac circuitry. The AC3200 router can produce throughput speeds of up to 600Mbps and 2600Mbps on the 2.4GHz and 5.0GHz, respectively.
Its settings include security, wireless, connectivity, OpenVPN server, and troubleshooting. The beamforming technology optimizes the router’s network performance. It does this by scanning, identifying connected wireless devices, and focusing the signal directly instead of broadcasting it everywhere.
The security page provides settings for VPN Passthrough, internet filtering, port triggering and forwarding, and a firewall. Through the OpenVPN Server Page, you can set up the IP addresses and configure ports. I found its file transfer rate and 5GHz throughout stellar, but the 2.4GHz could use a bit of improvement.
Pros
- Impressive Ethernet connectivity.
- Fast 5GHz throughput.
- It supports Tri-Stream 160MHz.
- Excellent speeds for file transfer.
Cons
- Standard 2.4GHz throughput.
Conclusion
While there are plenty of routers in the market, finding one compatible with Verizon Fios isn’t an easy task. Narrow down the choices by examining your needs, budget, and preferences. You can find a router that works well with Verizon Fios and is ideal for your internet needs in this guide.
FAQs on Best Routers for Verizon Fios
How Do I Connect My Verizon Fios Router?
The manufacturer’s manual contains the instructions you should follow. Keep in mind that installation procedures vary with every brand. Your router will provide Verizon internet as long as it supports the company’s Optical Services. Therefore, do your research to ascertain that your router is Verizon-compatible.
Do I Require a Verizon Fios Modem?
No, since Fios is purely a fiber service, it does not use modems. Instead, the fiber signal is transformed by an Optical Network Terminal (ONT). After signing up for the service, the ONT will be installed by a Verizon technician to provide Fios internet.
Since a modem is unnecessary, you only need to find a suitable, compatible router within your budget. Although Verizon Fios offers a compatible router, it may not be within your budget. Additionally, it will not be wise to rent one if you wish to have the fastest internet. Buying a router is a better option because it will save you money long-term.
How Do I Set Verizon Router to Bridge Mode?
Whether it is replacing an existing Fios router or connecting to a current Fios modem, you will need to add to your network a new Verizon router. This is only possible when the router is in bridge mode. The Verizon official website contains the instructions for setting your router in bridge mode.