Which router should I choose for my company?

The choice of a router is a decision that should be preceded by an analysis of the basic technical parameters and future expansion possibilities of the network. The role of relays is not limited to connecting a computer or mobile device to the network – data security, team productivity and the ability to expand the IT infrastructure depend on them. See which models will work best in specific scenarios.

Don’t know which WiFi router to choose? Answer these questions!

These days, choosing a WiFi router can be like trying to wade through a thicket of technical specifications and marketing promises. There are plenty of models on the market, with each offering different features and specifications, so before you decide on a particular router, answer a few questions:

• How many end users will use the Internet?
  A small company with a few employees needs completely different equipment than an organization with several hundred employees.

• Will you be using one or multiple Internet connections?
  If you need additional protection against failures, the best choice is a router with support for protection (failover).

• Should the WiFi router also act as a VPN server?
  If so, choose hardware capable of handling secure VPN tunnels with adequate performance.

• Do you want to analyze and control network traffic?
  If you need deep traffic analytics and monitoring of user activity, we recommend a router with so-called Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) and advanced filtering options.

Small and medium-sized businesses: the FortiGate 40F Wi-Fi router or Vidon

If your company has up to 10-12 employees and your Internet connection does not exceed 1 Gbps, it is worth investing in a FortiGate 40F or Vidon router. The FortiGate 40F is a powerful router with firewall and VPN server functions, which supports advanced security and filtering features. It will be very suitable for small offices and businesses that want more control over network traffic. Vidon (a virtual FortiGate in the ITH cloud), on the other hand, is a cost-effective alternative fully managed by the ITH team, operating in a cloud model.

Medium-sized enterprises – FortiGate 60F

For organizations with no more than 250 users and using an ITH link of up to 1 Gbps, the recommended solution is the FortiGate 60F. Such equipment is more powerful than the 40F, offers better VPN support and more computing power. It works well for companies that make heavy use of the cloud, instant messaging and SaaS applications, and has additional security features such as network threat protection, application control and IPS.

Large companies and high throughputs – FortiGate 100F

If your company uses faster Internet, such as 10Gb or 10Gb Lite, and has an extensive IT infrastructure, the best choice is the FortiGate 100F, which is designed to handle very high bandwidth and multiple users. It allows simultaneous VPN services, traffic inspection, content filtering and other security functions – without any performance degradation. The FortiGate 100F’s own WiFi router provides the highest level of control, which is why it’s a popular choice for business customers who want to have a complete view of what’s happening on the network.

FortiGate devices – more than modems

Each of the devices shown offers extensive functionality, so calling them routers is a gross oversimplification.

What do you gain by investing in top-of-the-line routers?

• Firewall of the UTM (Unified Threat Management) class.

• Traffic monitoring and analysis system

• A platform for securely connecting remote workers (VPN)

• Solution to support compliance with RODO, ISO and other standards

Purchase a WiFi router or a subscription model?

At ITH, you have a choice. You can buy a FortiGate unit outright or rent one with the option of full maintenance, monitoring and support.

In a service model:

• always have up-to-date software,

• You don’t worry about configuration and security,

• You can focus on your business and not on network administration.

Want to test? Receive equipment for trial

You don’t have to buy a router “blind.” If you want to see how the FortiGate will perform in your business, ITH allows you to test the equipment. Contact the team, test the device and evaluate for yourself whether it meets your expectations.

Summary: Which router to choose?

Do you have questions? Contact ITH

Choosing a router is an investment in the stability and security of your business. If you have additional questions, need a consultation or would like to talk to an ITH expert – don’t hesitate. Our team will be happy to help you choose the best solution for your needs.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers

Can I use my own router, or do I have to use my ISP’s device?

In most cases, you can use your own router, as long as your Internet provider (such as Netia, Neostrada, Orange or UPC) allows it. It’s important that the device is compatible with the technology of the provider in question (e.g. DSL, fiber or cable modem).

Which router should I choose for a small office (up to 10 people)?

For companies with less traffic and sufficient may be FortiGate 40F. It’s a device that provides stability, protection and basic traffic analytics options.

What is the difference between a router and a modem?

The modem is responsible for the connection to the Internet, and the router distributes this connection to the local network – wired and Wi-Fi. In some cases it’s one device, but businesses often use a separate modem and professional router for greater flexibility and efficiency.

Can I configure the company router myself?

Depending on the model – yes. Most devices have a user-friendly interface, but more advanced equipment (e.g. FortiGate, Mikrotik) may require the help of a specialist or the use of a vendor’s Network Operating Center services, like ITH.