Finding the right router for a small business network requires balancing performance, reliability, and ease of management. The ASUS ExpertWiFi AX3000 stands out for its strong Wi-Fi 6 coverage and user-friendly setup, making it ideal for growing small businesses. The Ubiquiti EdgeRouter 4 offers enterprise-grade routing with advanced features but demands more technical knowledge. Tradeoffs often involve choosing between high-end performance and straightforward usability. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and what suits different small business needs best.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Performance varies significantly; top picks deliver robust Wi-Fi 6 or multi-gigabit ports for seamless connectivity.
- Ease of setup and management distinguishes beginner-friendly models from more complex enterprise-oriented devices.
- Multi-WAN and VPN features are critical for redundancy and security, especially in small business environments.
- Build quality and expandability influence long-term reliability, with some routers supporting additional hardware or software upgrades.
- Price points reflect different tradeoffs; investing in premium features often means higher costs but better future-proofing.
| ASUS ExpertWiFi AX3000 Business Router |  | Best Overall for Scalable Enterprise-Grade Networking | WiFi Standard: WiFi 6 (AX3000) | Management: Remote management, easy setup | Features: Custom guest portal, SDN, VPN, VLAN, AiMesh support | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ubiquiti EdgeRouter 4 |  | Best for Wired Reliability and Flexibility | Ethernet ports: 3 x 10/100/1000 Mbps | Serial port: RJ45 | SFP port: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link ER605 V2 Wired Gigabit VPN Router |  | Best for Secure, Wired Business Connections | Number of Gigabit Ports: 5 | WAN Ports: 3 | USB WAN Port: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link ER707-M2 Omada Multi-Gigabit VPN Router with Dual 2.5G WAN Ports |  | Best for High-Bandwidth, Cloud-Managed Networks | Port Configuration: 1 x 2.5Gbps WAN, 1 x 2.5Gbps WAN/LAN, 4 x Gigabit WAN/LAN, 1 x Gigabit SFP WAN/LAN, 1 x USB 2.0 | Maximum Concurrent Sessions: 500,000 | Maximum Clients: 1000+ | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Slate AX Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router with VPN |  | Best Compact Travel Router with VPN for Remote Work | Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 | Dual-band Speed: 1800 Mbps | 2.4GHz Speed: 600 Mbps | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link Omada ER7412-M2 Multi-Gigabit VPN Router with Quad-core Processor and Dual 2.5G Ports |  | Best for Advanced Small Business Networks with Load Balancing | WAN/LAN Ports: 10 (2 SFP, 8 RJ45) | 2.5G Ports: 2 | USB Port: 1x USB 3.0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| ASUS ExpertWiFi EBG15 Gigabit VPN Wired Router |  | Best for Easy Setup with Enterprise-Grade Security | WAN Ethernet Ports: 3 (1 gigabit WAN + 2 gigabit WAN/LAN) | USB Ports: 1 | Security Features: IPS, VPN, AiProtection Pro | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Cudy Gigabit Multi-WAN VPN Router R700 |  | Best Compact Multi-WAN Router with VPN Support | Number of Ports: 5 | Compatible Devices: Laptop, Router | Voltage: 12 volts DC | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NETGEAR 10G/Multi-Gigabit Dual WAN Pro Router with Insight Cloud Management (PR60X) |  | Best for High-Speed, Managed Networks with Cloud Control | LAN/WAN ports: one 10G/Multi-Gigabit, one 2.5G WAN, three 2.5G LAN | SFP+ port: 10G | VLAN support: up to 32 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
ASUS ExpertWiFi AX3000 Business Router
This router stands out for its combination of WiFi 6 speeds and enterprise features like remote management, making it ideal for small businesses aiming for reliable, scalable wireless coverage. Compared with the Ubiquiti EdgeRouter 4, which excels in wired reliability but lacks WiFi, the ASUS provides a wireless-focused solution with easy setup and security. Its support for AiMesh allows expanding coverage without complex wiring, yet this complexity can be daunting for less tech-savvy users. The ASUS’s security suite offers peace of mind, but as a renewed product, potential buyers should consider warranty concerns. Overall, this makes the most sense for businesses needing robust WiFi combined with management features, willing to handle some setup complexity.
Pros:- Supports WiFi 6 for faster, more efficient wireless connectivity
- Easy to set up and manage remotely
- Supports scalable networking with AiMesh
Cons:- Renewed product may have warranty or condition concerns
- Features like SDN and VLAN can be complex for non-technical users
Best for: Small business owners seeking scalable, WiFi 6 networking with easy remote management
Not ideal for: Businesses requiring purely wired setups or with minimal technical expertise, due to complex feature set
- WiFi Standard:WiFi 6 (AX3000)
- Management:Remote management, easy setup
- Features:Custom guest portal, SDN, VPN, VLAN, AiMesh support
- Security:Free commercial-grade security
- Scalability:Scalable with AiMesh
Our verdict“A strong choice for small businesses that want scalable WiFi with enterprise-grade security and management options.”
Ubiquiti EdgeRouter 4
The Ubiquiti EdgeRouter 4 excels in wired, reliable routing with its fanless design and multiple mounting options, making it ideal for businesses prioritizing a stable wired backbone. Unlike the ASUS, which offers WiFi, the EdgeRouter focuses purely on wired connectivity, giving it an edge for high-performance, noise-free operation. Its multiple gigabit ports and SFP support make it versatile for various network setups, but the lack of built-in WiFi limits its use for wireless needs. Advanced features are present but not extensively detailed, which may require technical expertise for full utilization. This makes it well-suited for tech-savvy small businesses with existing WiFi infrastructure needing a dependable wired router.
Pros:- Fanless design for silent operation
- Multiple mounting options for flexibility
- High-speed Ethernet and SFP support
Cons:- Limited details on advanced features and management
- No included power supply info, potential setup uncertainties
Best for: Small businesses requiring a silent, flexible wired router with multiple mounting options
Not ideal for: Businesses needing integrated WiFi or simple plug-and-play solutions, due to its wired focus and technical setup
- Ethernet ports:3 x 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Serial port:RJ45
- SFP port:Yes
- Power consumption:13 Watts
- Mounting options:Desk, wall, rack
Our verdict“Ideal for small businesses that prioritize wired stability over wireless simplicity and are comfortable with technical setup.”
TP-Link ER605 V2 Wired Gigabit VPN Router
The TP-Link ER605 V2 offers multiple gigabit ports and robust VPN support, making it a strong contender for security-conscious small businesses that rely on wired connections. Unlike the Ubiquiti EdgeRouter 4, which emphasizes simplicity and quiet operation, the ER605 V2 provides comprehensive security features like SPI firewall and DoS defense, supporting complex VPN setups. Its multiple WAN ports allow load balancing and backup, ideal for maintaining uptime. However, the setup can be complex, requiring a certain level of networking knowledge, and it lacks WiFi, limiting its versatility. This router suits businesses needing secure, wired remote access with advanced security features but not wireless connectivity.
Pros:- Multiple WAN ports for load balancing and backup
- Supports various VPN protocols for secure remote access
- Advanced security features to protect network
Cons:- Setup complexity may require technical knowledge
- No WiFi built-in limits wireless flexibility
Best for: Small businesses with existing WiFi and a need for secure, wired remote access
Not ideal for: Businesses seeking an all-in-one WiFi solution or with limited technical expertise
- Number of Gigabit Ports:5
- WAN Ports:3
- USB WAN Port:Yes
- VPN Support:Yes
- Security Features:SPI Firewall, DoS Defense, IP/MAC/URL Filtering
Our verdict“Best suited for businesses prioritizing wired security and remote VPN access over wireless features.”
TP-Link ER707-M2 Omada Multi-Gigabit VPN Router with Dual 2.5G WAN Ports
The TP-Link ER707-M2 offers dual 2.5Gbps WAN ports along with multiple high-speed ports, making it suitable for businesses needing extensive bandwidth and high session capacity. Compared with the ASUS ExpertWiFi, which focuses on WiFi management, the ER707-M2 emphasizes wired performance and centralized cloud control. Its large number of supported sessions and clients suits growing small networks, but setup can be complex for those unfamiliar with advanced network configurations. Its lack of built-in WiFi means it’s better paired with wireless access points. This router is tailored for tech-savvy businesses that need high-capacity, secure, wired connections with remote management capability.
Pros:- Dual 2.5Gbps WAN ports for high bandwidth
- Supports extensive VPN and security options
- Centralized cloud management for easy control
Cons:- Setup complexity for non-technical users
- No integrated WiFi features
Best for: Small businesses with high data throughput needs and existing wireless infrastructure
Not ideal for: Small businesses seeking simple plug-and-play WiFi solutions or with minimal technical resources
- Port Configuration:1 x 2.5Gbps WAN, 1 x 2.5Gbps WAN/LAN, 4 x Gigabit WAN/LAN, 1 x Gigabit SFP WAN/LAN, 1 x USB 2.0
- Maximum Concurrent Sessions:500,000
- Maximum Clients:1000+
- VPN Support:LAN-to-LAN IPsec, OpenVPN, L2TP, PPTP
- Warranty:5 years
Our verdict“Perfect for high-capacity, wired backbone networks that benefit from cloud management and VPN flexibility.”
GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Slate AX Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router with VPN
The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 combines Wi-Fi 6 speeds with a small form factor, making it ideal for on-the-go small business owners who need fast, secure internet access. Unlike the wired-focused routers like the TP-Link ER605, this device provides wireless connectivity with support for up to 120 devices simultaneously. Its OpenWrt-based OS allows deep customization, including VPN setup for secure browsing, comparable to dedicated VPN routers but on a portable device. The USB port adds file sharing capabilities, but its manual VPN toggle and limited default features may challenge non-technical users. It’s best for remote workers or traveling sales teams needing a reliable, secure WiFi connection on the move.
Pros:- Wi-Fi 6 speeds supporting many devices
- Built-in VPN support for secure browsing
- OpenWrt provides extensive customization options
Cons:- Requires manual VPN setup and toggling
- Limited default features and physical switch functionality
Best for: Traveling small business owners or remote workers needing fast, secure WiFi on the go
Not ideal for: Businesses seeking a dedicated wired router or plug-and-play simplicity without customization
- Wi-Fi Standard:Wi-Fi 6
- Dual-band Speed:1800 Mbps
- 2.4GHz Speed:600 Mbps
- 5GHz Speed:1200 Mbps
- Device Capacity:up to 120 devices
- Operating System:OpenWrt 21.02
Our verdict“A versatile, portable WiFi 6 router for remote business operations requiring secure, high-speed wireless access.”
TP-Link Omada ER7412-M2 Multi-Gigabit VPN Router with Quad-core Processor and Dual 2.5G Ports
The TP-Link Omada ER7412-M2 stands out for its robust support of multiple WAN connections, making it ideal for businesses needing dedicated bandwidth management. Unlike the ASUS ExpertWiFi EBG15, which emphasizes ease of use and security, this router prioritizes high-performance load balancing across up to 11 WAN links—perfect for bandwidth-heavy or multi-ISP setups. However, its setup complexity and lack of Wi-Fi mean it’s best suited for network professionals rather than small office users seeking plug-and-play solutions. The dual 2.5G ports deliver high-speed wired connections, but the absence of Wi-Fi limits flexibility for environments relying on wireless devices.
Pros:- Supports load balancing across multiple WAN connections for higher bandwidth reliability
- Advanced security features including VPN, DoS/DDoS protection, and filtering
- Dual 2.5G ports enable high-speed wired connectivity
Cons:- Complex setup requiring technical expertise
- No integrated Wi-Fi, limiting wireless flexibility
Best for: Network administrators needing advanced load balancing and security for multiple internet connections in a small business setting
Not ideal for: Small offices seeking an all-in-one Wi-Fi and router solution with minimal configuration
- WAN/LAN Ports:10 (2 SFP, 8 RJ45)
- 2.5G Ports:2
- USB Port:1x USB 3.0
- Processor:Quad-core
Our verdict“This router is best suited for small businesses with dedicated IT staff managing multiple internet links and security needs.”
ASUS ExpertWiFi EBG15 Gigabit VPN Wired Router
The ASUS ExpertWiFi EBG15 makes a compelling choice for small businesses prioritizing security and straightforward deployment. Its user-friendly setup via web or mobile app contrasts with the more complex configuration of the TP-Link ER7412-M2, making it accessible for non-technical users. The inclusion of VLAN support, multiple WAN ports, and advanced security features like IPS and VPN provides a level of protection comparable to higher-end models, but at a premium price. While its features suit business environments, the setup may still challenge complete beginners, and some security features might require ongoing subscription costs.
Pros:- Simple setup via web or mobile app
- Multiple WAN ports for load balancing and backup
- Robust security with IPS, VPN, and AiProtection Pro
Cons:- Setup complexity for complete beginners
- Premium features may require subscription fees
Best for: Small business owners or IT teams seeking reliable security and easy management without extensive networking expertise
Not ideal for: Tech-savvy users wanting maximum customization or advanced load balancing for multiple internet lines
- WAN Ethernet Ports:3 (1 gigabit WAN + 2 gigabit WAN/LAN)
- USB Ports:1
- Security Features:IPS, VPN, AiProtection Pro
- Management:Remote via app, Bluetooth setup
Our verdict“This router makes sense for small businesses that need quick deployment with enterprise-grade security features without extensive technical complexity.”
Cudy Gigabit Multi-WAN VPN Router R700
The Cudy R700 offers a compact, durable solution for small businesses needing multi-WAN load balancing and VPN capabilities. Compared with the ASUS EBG15, which emphasizes security and ease of use, the R700 shines with its straightforward design, supporting up to four WAN ports and multiple VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. Its small footprint suits environments where space is limited, but its interface details are sparse, requiring some technical knowledge to optimize. It lacks extensive management features like remote cloud control, making it less ideal for businesses that prefer centralized oversight.
Pros:- Supports multiple WAN ports with load balancing for better bandwidth use
- Includes comprehensive VPN support (OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPsec)
- Compact, durable design suitable for small spaces
Cons:- Limited detailed UI information and management tools
- Requires technical expertise for setup and ongoing management
Best for: Small businesses needing reliable, multi-WAN internet with VPN support in a space-constrained environment
Not ideal for: Less technically experienced users who prefer graphical interfaces or cloud management for their network
- Number of Ports:5
- Compatible Devices:Laptop, Router
- Voltage:12 volts DC
- Data Transfer Rate:1 gigabit per second
Our verdict“This router is ideal for small offices that need multi-WAN redundancy and VPN support in a compact form factor, but requires technical skill to configure effectively.”
NETGEAR 10G/Multi-Gigabit Dual WAN Pro Router with Insight Cloud Management (PR60X)
The NETGEAR PR60X is designed for networks requiring ultra-fast connections and remote management. Its high-speed 10G and 2.5G ports outperform the other options in raw bandwidth, making it suitable for data-heavy environments. Compared to the Cudy R700, which offers good VPN support, the PR60X emphasizes enterprise-grade speed and scalability with dual WAN failover and VLAN support. However, its reliance on a subscription for cloud management and complex setup might deter small businesses without dedicated IT resources. It’s best for those needing a rackmount solution with centralized control.
Pros:- High-speed 10G and 2.5G ports for versatile connectivity
- Dual WAN with failover and load balancing for reliability
- Remote management via NETGEAR Insight
Cons:- Requires a subscription for cloud services
- Setup complexity may be too high for non-experts
Best for: Small to medium-sized enterprises seeking high-speed internet and centralized cloud management
Not ideal for: Small businesses or startups with limited technical skills or budget for cloud service subscriptions
- LAN/WAN ports:one 10G/Multi-Gigabit, one 2.5G WAN, three 2.5G LAN
- SFP+ port:10G
- VLAN support:up to 32
- VPN support:IPSec, OpenVPN, WireGuard
Our verdict“This router targets organizations that need high throughput and centralized cloud management, though it comes with a higher cost and setup complexity.”
How We Picked
We evaluated each router based on performance metrics, usability, build quality, security features, and value for small business owners. Reliability and scalability were key considerations, along with how well the device integrates with existing network setups. The ranking favors routers that balance advanced features with straightforward management, ensuring options for both tech-savvy users and beginners. Cost efficiency was also a factor, highlighting products that provide strong performance without unnecessary extras. This approach ensures that the top picks are genuinely suited to small business environments, not just enterprise-level or consumer-grade devices.Factors to Consider When Choosing Router For Small Business Network
When choosing a router for a small business network, several factors influence the best fit. Understanding these can help you avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for features you don’t need or selecting a device incapable of supporting your growth. Consider your current network size, security requirements, and future expansion plans. The right router should offer a balance of speed, security, manageability, and reliability. Below are key factors to keep in mind as you evaluate your options.Performance and Speed
Performance is central to ensuring your small business network can handle daily tasks smoothly. Look for routers supporting Wi-Fi 6 or multi-gigabit Ethernet ports to future-proof your setup and accommodate growing bandwidth needs. While higher speeds can reduce lag and improve file transfers, they often come at a higher price. For most small businesses, a balance between speed and affordability is key, but if you rely heavily on cloud applications or large data transfers, investing in higher-end hardware pays off.
Security Features
Security should be a top priority, especially if your network handles sensitive client data or online transactions. Features like built-in VPN support, firewall options, and automatic firmware updates help protect your network from external threats. Some routers include integrated security services, reducing the need for additional hardware or software. Overlooking security can expose your business to risks, so prioritize devices with robust security options tailored to business use.
Ease of Management
Small business owners often prefer routers with intuitive management interfaces, either via web portals or dedicated apps. Certain models offer cloud management, allowing remote oversight and troubleshooting. Complex enterprise-grade routers might require more technical expertise, making them less suitable for users without dedicated IT staff. Consider your comfort level with networking management when selecting a model; an easy-to-use interface can save time and reduce frustration.
Expandability and Future-Proofing
As your business grows, your network needs will evolve. Choose a router that supports additional hardware, such as extra access points or switches, and can handle increased traffic. Multi-WAN support can provide redundancy, minimizing downtime if one connection fails. Think long-term: investing in a scalable device can save money and effort down the line, even if it costs more initially.
Price and Value
Prices range widely, reflecting differences in features and performance. While budget models may suffice for very small setups, they often lack advanced security or multi-user support. Premium routers offer more robust features but may be unnecessary for simple needs. Aim for a device that offers the best value—meeting your current requirements without overspending on unused capabilities. Consider total cost of ownership, including potential upgrades or subscriptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a small business router support multiple users and devices?
Yes, most small business routers are designed to handle multiple users and devices simultaneously. Features like multi-user MIMO, QoS (Quality of Service), and sufficient bandwidth capacity ensure that several employees, devices, and applications can operate smoothly without noticeable lag. When evaluating options, check the maximum device count and whether the router can prioritize traffic for critical applications to optimize performance across your network.
Is Wi-Fi 6 necessary for small business networks?
While Wi-Fi 6 is not strictly necessary, it offers significant advantages such as higher speeds, better handling of multiple devices, and improved efficiency. For small businesses with many wireless devices or those expecting growth, Wi-Fi 6 provides future-proofing and smoother operations. However, if your current setup is limited and budget is a concern, Wi-Fi 5 routers can still deliver reliable performance for smaller or less demanding environments.
Should I prioritize security features over speed?
Security features are vital for protecting sensitive data and maintaining business continuity. While high speeds improve productivity, neglecting security can expose your network to cyber threats and data breaches. Ideally, choose a router that balances both—offering strong security measures like VPN support, frequent firmware updates, and firewalls without compromising essential performance. Security should never be an afterthought, especially in a business context.
How important is ease of setup for a small business router?
Ease of setup can significantly reduce the time and frustration involved in getting your network operational. Many modern routers feature guided setup wizards, mobile apps, and cloud-based management, making it accessible even for those without extensive networking experience. For small businesses without dedicated IT staff, a straightforward setup process ensures quick deployment and minimal downtime, enabling you to focus on core operations rather than technical hurdles.
What features should I look for if I want to expand my network later?
If expansion is on the horizon, select a router that supports additional access points, switches, or mesh configurations. Multi-WAN support can also provide redundancy, reducing potential downtime. Check compatibility with future hardware and whether firmware updates enable enhanced features over time. Planning ahead ensures your network remains scalable without requiring a complete overhaul as your business grows.
