Everyone desires optimal connectivity. But to achieve that, you should get a reliable router to serve the purpose. With the many routers available today, choosing the right one takes time. The Linksys Max-Stream AC2200 is one of the most reliable routers for small to medium houses.
Linksys is a sought-after router provider that has been in the industry for a long time. That alone gives assurance that this company only provides quality routers and services that’s on par with other top options on the market.
PROS
CONS
HARDWARE & SPECS
Main Features and Benefits
Optimal Wi-Fi Distribution
The Wi-Fi traffic optimizer lets you transfer files, attend video conferences, watch 4K streaming, and gaming with the 5GHz band. On the other hand, older devices and less demanding connections like browsing and emails can use the 2.4GHz band.
With the MU-MIMO technology, all devices can connect to the router at the same time without experiencing connection lags. Four high-performance external antennas also help maximize coverage for up to 2,000 sq. ft in your home. Unlike traditional routers, the Linksys Max-Stream AC2200 had Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) that allows it to operate in clear airspace for better Wi-Fi connectivity.
Improved Wired Connectivity
The Linksys Max-Stream AC2200 has 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for stable and faster data transfer. The USB 3.0 lets you connect a printer or share data with the networked devices. It also boasts a link aggregation capacity to speed up data transfers from external storage devices.
Software and Support
This router is easy to manage from a companion app downloadable from the App Store or Google Play. You can manage everything from this app, including setup, troubleshooting, and other related management concerns.
The Linksys Max-Stream AC2200 also connects with Alexa so everything’s under voice command. Simply input the user profile into the system and you can activate and deactivate everything without having to lift a finger. The firmware also updates automatically so you won’t have issues with the features and security of your home network.
Security and Protection
Linksys SPI Firewall disallows unauthorized connections to pass the firewall. Denial of Service (DoS) protects all Linksys routers from Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, making your network working smoothly.
Cons
Like any other device, the Linksys AC2200 has its weaknesses. The one-setup plan using the companion app proves to be a disadvantage in some aspects as you need to have your phone with you to work on the router. Also renaming the three bands, while helpful in band-performance diagnostics, means additional work for the users. It is also expensive but the company offers discounts so checking on the product price helps to get the best deal.
What is the Linksys Max-Stream AC 2200 Best For?
The Linksys Max-Stream AC2200 is best for small to medium houses that need stable connectivity. Set up your devices that use fast internet to use the 5GHz bands, while devices usually used for browsing and communication can utilize the 2.4GHz band to optimize the connection.
Movie marathons in HD and 4K are also no hassle. You can experience the best graphics and no lags during games with the maximum throughput. Surely, everyone in the family will love the Linksys Max-Stream AC2200 with its superior connectivity and protection.
What Buyers Have To Say
Absolute great area coverage for whole-home Wi-Fi. I purchased the unit due to its Mesh Capabilities. No more using a range extender that requires you to create separate SID broadcasting between your Main Router and the extender.
I expected to have to purchase additional access points to get whole-home Wi-Fi in our 2400 sq ft home but ended up that this unit alone was good enough to cover the whole house, even thru walls!!! I even mounted the unit in a closet and it has a great signal throughout the house.
I am brand loyal and all of my routers have been Linksys. All of the things on the old router transferred to the new because the back view was identical.
The rest of the setup used an app on my phone. The only thing that slowed me down was a few misguided thumb taps. Human error. It is all set up and many of our devices are now online. We'll get the rest as we need them.
After setting the TVs and other devices I ran a speed test that showed 5 stars everywhere and 4 stars for gaming. If you are worried about spending money and getting a bunch of errors and confusion, don't. Go ahead and go for this model.
I bought this Linksys MR8300 Mesh Wi-Fi Router, AC2200, MU-MIMO to enhance my Wi-Fi router that came with Viasat Satellite Internet Service Provider. With the Viasat router I am paying $9.99 per month for their use (no you can not cancel this) and the Wi-Fi capability is very limited to about 15-20 feet.
I don't understand why Viasat would not build a better Wi-Fi router that they are very capable of doing as they sent out a repairman for over two hours that said he can not fix the range that I would have to buy an extender. Very frustrating! Anyhow, I bought this and routed it through the Viasat router, and WOW, the Wi-Fi capacity more than doubled if not more.
Problems with Wi-Fi are a thing of the past thanks to Linksys MR8300 Mesh Wi-Fi Router, AC2200, MU-MIMO. If needed I can even buy extenders if I want the Wi-Fi to extend further. In addition, I called the tech line and they provided fast, friendly, and competent help.
Things to Remember Before Purchasing a Wireless Router
Before taking the plunge, read the reviews, and check the specs of the router you have in mind. What do you want to achieve with that router? If your family loves gaming and movies (who doesn’t?), a tri-band router is the best choice since it can allocate a better connection to data-hungry devices and apps.
Always Go for Value
Affordability does not always mean value. Value means getting the services you paid for for a good period of time. Some cheap routers do half the job so you end up getting another one to make up for what it lacks.
If you are like most consumers who go for what you know or are comfortable with, getting the best value may also mean going out of your comfort zone and trying something new after considerable intelligent research. If you haven’t decided yet, check out the review on Best 4-Port Routers. You’ll find some customer-approved and reviewer-validated routers you can choose from.