Routers provided by Ziply Fiber come with our built-in tech support. You can rest assured that our equipment is optimal for your chosen internet plan.
This page provides recommended specifications for fiber routers of any brand, and answers questions about Ziply Fiber firmware updates.
WAN port speed
This is the first specification to check when shopping for a fiber router. An insufficient WAN port will bottleneck your fiber speed.
- Minimum requirement for fiber internet: Be sure the router’s WAN port supports one gigabit Ethernet (1 Gbps) or higher depending on your internet plan.
- The higher your Ziply Fiber speed, the higher your WAN port should be. For example, for a 2 Gig Fiber plan look for a WAN Port speed of 2.5G. For 5 Gig Fiber look for a 5.5G WAN.
WiFi standards
This specification indicates how fast and efficiently your router distributes data to all the wirelessly connected devices in your home.
- Minimum requirement for fiber internet: Look for a router with a minimum WiFi standard of WiFi 6E or WiFi (802.11ax)
- For the best experience: We recommend a WiFi 7 router such as Ziply Fiber’s Aginet HB810.
Dual-band or tri-band support
The number of bands impacts wireless traffic. Think of it as the difference between a 2-lane and 3-lane highway. More lanes allow traffic to flow with greater ease and fewer bottlenecks.
- Minimum requirement for fiber internet: Dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)
- For the best experience: Tri-band (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz for WiFi 6E)
Throughput speed
To avoid bottlenecks (dropped or slow connections) your router’s throughput should be equal to or greater than your fiber plan. For example, if you have Fiber Gig, get a router that supports at least 1 Gbps wireless and wired speeds. For 2 Gig Fiber the router should support at least 2 Gbps wireless and wired speeds.
Ethernet ports
Look for multiple Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports for wired connections to devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles and desktop computers.
MU-MIMO & OFDMA
Look for this in a router’s list of special features. MU-MIMO & OFDMA improve efficiency and allow the router to handle multiple devices simultaneously, which is great for households with many smart devices.
Compatibility with ONT (Optical Network Terminal)
Fiber internet connects to your home via an ONT (Optical Network Terminal), where cable and DSL use modems. When considering routers for use with fiber internet, be sure to choose a model that’s ONT compatible.
Router Firmware
If you use Ziply Fiber equipment (modem, router, gateway) your firmware is managed automatically by us. No need to download or monitor version updates. We handle everything for you.
For equipment not provided by Ziply Fiber, be sure it’s running the latest firmware for optimal performance and security. If you’re not sure whether your non-Ziply equipment needs updating, contact the manufacturer directly for support.