Introduction
Typically, ISPs, such as Verizon Fios gigabit, will provide users with a router when they purchase an internet connection or as part of a package. Many people will be fine and satisfied with the router they provide, but sometimes people want to use a different router to get a better speed.
That is why we have provided the best router for Verizon FiOS, which will provide you with high-quality network speed as well as many other advantages. However, selecting the best router to use with FiOS gigabit will reap numerous benefits.
Verizon employs an ‘ONT,’ or Optical Network Terminal, a box that receives the optical connection to the home and converts it into a signal that the router can understand. I only mention this because some Verizon FIOS installations don’t come with a router with an ethernet port on the back – though most recent ones do – so if your router doesn’t have an ethernet port on the back, you’ll need to find the ONT and run an ethernet cable from it to your new router.
Best Router For Verizon Fios 2023
Netgear Nighthawk X6 Router for Verizon Fios
Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Router
TP-Link Archer AX10 Router
Motorola MR2600 Router
Asus RT-AX86U Wi-Fi 6 Router
Netgear Orbi RBK852 Mesh WiFi System
TP-Link Archer A7 Router
TP-Link Archer A20 (AC4000)
TP-Link Deco S4
Netgear Nighthawk AX8 Router
Arris SURFboard Router
The Netgear Nighthawk X6 was one of the first routers to sport the recognizable angular, multi-antenna design that appears to have come straight from an alien mothership. Even if you dislike the design, you must admit that the added functionality is well worth it. This Verizon Fios router is fast and provides extensive wireless coverage, even in large homes.
Its six external antennas use beamforming technology to distribute signals evenly throughout the home, allowing multiple devices to connect without slowing down the network.
Furthermore, the Nighthawk X6 offers tri-band functionality, which means you’ll have three different wireless signals to which you can connect your devices. Tri-band routers like this one have two 5GHz bands and one 2.4GHz band.
For optimal performance, we recommend connecting your gaming consoles and streaming devices to the 5GHz bands. When it comes to setup and configuration, you’ll have an easier time than most. Because the X6 router is larger than other options, finding the right spot for it can be difficult at times.
The basic configuration, on the other hand, is as simple as plugging in the Wi-Fi router, entering a network name and password, and connecting your devices. Fortunately, the X6 offers a wide range of customization options, including parental controls and Quality of Service (QoS) options, if required. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for the best WiFi router for long-range that also works well with Fios.
The Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 has every modern feature you could want in a high-end router. This tri-band router, which supports Wi-Fi 6E and has a plethora of ports, will ensure that your network provides fast Wi-Fi to all of your devices without interruption.
The Rapture GT-AX11000 also has a quad-core CPU to keep things running smoothly, as well as features that prioritize online gaming for lower latency and better ping rates. It also has a design that reduces the distance between the motherboard connectors and the antennas, allowing for better signal strength in all directions.
It is covered in RGB lighting in true gaming router fashion, but it isn’t just for show—you can configure the router to glow different colors to indicate network status, performance dips, and more.
When combined with other Asus routers, the GT-AX11000 can be used as a mesh network access point to cover a large area. Although it may be overkill for some, the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 provides excellent coverage across a wide range of high-demand networking scenarios.
The TP-Link Archer AX10 is a low-cost option for anyone looking for Wi-Fi 6.
It averaged 651.97 Mbps from 5 feet and 351.81 Mbps from 25 feet during testing. Both use the 5GHz frequency band.
Given the price, these are some excellent results. This makes it a good choice for Verizon FiOS internet packets of 400 Mbps or less.
The router’s range was about 80-90 feet, which was about average. This will suffice for the average home, especially if placed closer to the center of it.
The AX10’s features are lacking, with both QoS and Parental Controls being underwhelming.
You can only restrict clients with QoS, not applications. You can only limit URLs and Keywords with Parental Controls.
However, if you don’t need the extra features and don’t have a Verizon Gig plan, the TP-Link Archer AX10 is a good cheaper option.
The Motorola MR2600 router for Verizon Fios is a capable but understated device. It lacks the flashy, sci-fi designs that many other options have. It is, however, built to last, and the subtle form factor looks good tucked away or out in the open. The MR2600 is also extremely simple to set up. It’s as close to a true plug-and-play scenario as you can get, which is a big plus for anyone who struggles with networking devices.
Unfortunately, because of this streamlined approach, you won’t get as many in-depth customization options or adjustability, especially when compared to other routers on the market today.
In terms of performance, the Motorola MR2600 provides excellent speed and throughput even when transmitting the signal through obstacles such as doors and walls. This router is dual-band, with 5GHz and 2.4GHz frequencies for greater flexibility. The 5GHz performs best in terms of speed but struggles a little in terms of long-distance connections.
Overall, the Motorola MR2600 is the best choice for you if you want a simple wireless router that you can plug in and almost immediately get top speeds from. For the best streaming experience, pair it with the best smart TVs.
If you want a powerful router with an excellent balance of speed, technology, and features, the Asus RT-AX86U is hard to beat. This dual-band router includes Wi-Fi 6, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, and mesh networking, allowing you to easily set up a whole-home Wi-Fi network that covers every room in your house.
The Asus RT-AX86U also includes a mobile app for easy configuration, three amplified antennas, beamforming, and adaptive QoS (Quality of Service), which allows users to prioritize specific network traffic such as streaming video and gaming. In terms of gaming, the router has a dedicated gaming port that prioritizes any wired devices connected to it.
If you play online multiplayer games, this is an excellent way to ensure that you have the fastest and most consistent connection possible.
The Netgear Orbi RBK852 is a premium mesh system designed for large homes that require total coverage.
The main router tested at 851.86 Mbps from 5 feet and 540.76 Mbps from 25 feet. Both use the 5GHz frequency band.
These are some fast speeds, more than enough for a busy home with a lot of smart devices.
The Orbi RBK852 differs from most other Mesh networks in that its satellites (support units) reach 85-90% of the main router from each distance.
This is more than sufficient for the Verizon Gig plan.
The Orbi RBK852’s main disadvantage is that it lacks both Parental Controls and QoS. This makes it difficult to limit your child’s internet activities or prioritize internet activities.
Aside from that, the Orbi RBK852 is by far the best if you want extreme coverage and speed.
The TP-Link Archer A7 is the best budget router for Verizon Fios available today. And, thankfully, it doesn’t sacrifice much in terms of performance to provide you with fast speeds and extensive customization options. The Archer A7 still has enough throughput to handle the blazing fast speeds of your fiber optic internet, and its three antennas allow it to perform well over longer distances.
The Archer A7’s overall design and form factor are also noteworthy. It’s small, lightweight, and long-lasting, making it ideal for a variety of installation scenarios.
The TP-Link Archer A7 features dual-band functionality, allowing you to connect your mobile devices to either the 5GHz or 2.4GHz bands. This router provides impressive throughput and speeds across average-sized homes, ensuring a stable connection no matter where you are.
The TP-Link router’s most impressive feature is its extensive customization options, which include parental controls and Quality of Service prioritization. With all of this flexibility at your disposal, you’ll be able to maximize the router’s performance on a fiber optics network like Verizon Fios for the best possible experience.
The TP-Link Archer A20 should be on your wishlist if you spend your nights and weekends binge-watching shows on Netflix and HBO Max. The tri-band router has four Gigabit Ethernet ports and supports up to 4GB of bandwidth, giving users plenty of options for connecting TVs, gaming consoles, and set-top boxes.
The Archer A20 also has a 1.8 GHz processor and 512GB of RAM to keep things running smoothly. It also has “range boost” technology, which provides a more consistent, lag-free connection in your home’s far corners.
Beamforming technology, which directs wireless signals to a specific receiving device, is also supported by the TP-Link Archer A20. It also has MU-MIMO, or “multi-user, multiple-input, multiple-output” technology, which allows it to communicate with multiple devices at the same time.
These features make the Archer A20 ideal for homes with multiple streaming devices, preventing long periods of buffering.
The TP-Link Deco S4 is a good option if you don’t want to spend a lot of money but still get good coverage.
Using the 5GHz band, it achieved 317.27 Mbps from 5 feet and 169.59 Mbps from 25 feet during testing.
This makes the router usable with the Verizon 400 plan, but only just.
Because it does not provide 400 Mbps Wi-Fi speed. However, because it is mesh, you will have a high average throughput throughout the house.
The Deco S4 has excellent Parental Controls and QoS. Making it possible to limit your child’s internet activities and prioritize data.
The Deco S4’s disadvantage is that each satellite unit only reached 60-70% of the speed of the main router. As a result, it is a little slower than some of the more expensive options.
Overall, the TP-Link Deco is an excellent choice for anyone without a high-speed internet connection who wants good coverage at a reasonable price.
The Netgear Nighthawk AX8 router for Verizon Fios is one of the most powerful routers on the market today, as well as one of the most distinctively designed options. On either side, two large fins extend above the router, containing the antennas that output the tri-band frequencies across one 2.4GHz channel and two 5GHz channels. Unless you keep it on top of a cabinet or shelving unit, this makes the router a little bulky.
However, this novel antenna design approach improves throughput at mid-range distances. The long-range performance will suffer, but the Netgear Nighthawk AX8 still performs admirably.
This router’s compatibility with Wi-Fi 6 connections impressed us. This is the most recent type of wireless connection, and it offers much faster and more consistent Wi-Fi speeds overall. The Nighthawk AX8 also has a plethora of configuration options, allowing you to create a truly customized home network.
These advanced features and settings include Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing certain devices over others, as well as extensive parental controls to keep your family members safe. The only area where we could improve is malware protection. The AX8 provides a year of free malware protection, but after that, you’ll have to pay for it.
The Verizon FiOS gigabit modem router combo is a 2 product in 1 feature that includes the SURFboard SBG6950AC2 which combines a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, an 802.11ac Wi-Fi router, and 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports; you can get all of these features in one powerful device.
This is the Arris SURFboard, which also includes 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels.
The SBG6950AC2 router also includes built-in technologies that allow you to experience more speed and, of course, faster streaming, making your downloads much easier and faster.
There’s no need to wait any longer to finish your download because this handy router is here to provide you with maximum reach and strong signal capability.
Furthermore, because this is an all-in-one modem and Wi-Fi router combo that provides extra speed and high performance, there is no need to manage multiple devices. It will also obviously save you money, which you can easily spend on those monthly modem rental fees, and the best part is that it can easily fit into any office or home.
Verizon FiOS Router Buying Guide
Verizon, like most internet service providers, will gladly provide you with a router for no additional charge on your monthly bill. However, there is no requirement that you use that router. In fact, if you’re willing to pay a premium, the best routers provide significantly greater range and support for more devices.
In theory, any router should be compatible with Verizon’s internet connection. We looked for routers that can support up to 1 Gbps of bandwidth to ensure you get the most out of Fios’ best plan. Dual-band and tri-band routers that support the more recent Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 standards were also considered.
Choosing the best routers for Verizon Fios can quickly become complicated. Router specifications rely heavily on industry jargon. Even the most seasoned technophiles can find it confusing and frustrating. We’ll walk you through the fundamentals so you can choose the best router for your home.
Wi-Fi 5 vs. Wi-Fi 6
Wi-Fi standards are related to speed, but they are also worth considering.
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Wi-Fi 6 are the most common today (802.11ax). [2]
The standard’s performance is primarily determined by the router and its specifications.
However, Wi-Fi 6 will be faster, more capable of handling more devices, and more secure. Wi-Fi 5 is less expensive and works with more devices.
If you have a Verizon FiOS plan with 400 Mbps or higher, I recommend Wi-Fi 6. Otherwise, Wi-Fi 5 will most likely suffice.
Of course, nothing is set in stone. You can always upgrade your router to Wi-Fi 6 if you want to be prepared for the future.
Frequency bands and channels
A frequency band is a range of radio wavelengths that transmit data across a wireless spectrum. In the case of wireless routers, frequency bands serve as communication channels for your router to send data between your modem and devices.
Most routers have frequency bands of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz; the higher the frequency, the faster the data transmission rate. Because higher frequency bands have shorter signal ranges, you must be closer to your router for the fastest, most reliable connection.
Using 2.4 GHz frequencies sends data slightly slower but provides a wider range (150 indoors and 300 feet outdoors). Data travels faster and over a shorter distance at 5 GHz. The connection is also more susceptible to interference from solid objects such as walls. New high-end Wi-Fi 6E routers also include a third frequency band, 6 GHz, which provides faster speeds but at the expense of stability and range.
Most routers have dual-band or tri-band radio functionality, giving your devices two or three channels to connect to. Dual-band routers typically have 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, allowing them to connect to any Wi-Fi device. Tri-band routers typically include a second 5 GHz channel to reduce congestion on the faster frequency.
A tri-band router is recommended for large home networks with many devices that are constantly connected to the internet. The additional band allows more devices to connect to your network without noticeably slowing down. Be aware that tri-band functionality is typically reserved for more expensive routers.
Ethernet Ports
On a router, there are typically two types of ethernet ports: the WAN port (which, in the case of Verizon FiOS, connects to the ONT) and the LAN port.
In addition, the LAN ports are used to connect devices to the router.
There are different speeds for these ports, but the standard is 1G for LAN ports and 1G to 2.5G for WAN ports. This will suffice for the vast majority of Verizon customers.
What is more important to consider is the number of LAN ports required. Make sure you have enough for all of your wired devices.
You can also purchase an additional switch if you require more, so a lack of LAN ports is not a deal breaker.
USB Ports
USB ports are essential for sharing files with external hard drives and connecting devices to your network.
A router usually has two of them: a USB 2.0 port and a USB 3.0 port.
The distinction is that USB 3.0 is faster and newer, whereas USB 2.0 is generally less expensive.
The USB port is not critical for most people, but if you plan on doing file sharing on your network, you should consider getting USB 3.0 ports.
Range
More powerful routers can not only handle more devices and meet newer standards, but they can also extend the range of their wireless signals. Wi-Fi signals are strongest when you are close to a router and there are no physical objects between it and your device. Moving away from the router or putting up walls and doors will cause your connection to degrade. High-end routers frequently have a greater maximum range, which leads to greater stability over longer distances.
Purchasing a router with a longer maximum range can improve signal strength in your home, but it isn’t always the best option. If you’re having trouble connecting in a specific room or area of your home, a Wi-Fi extender can boost your signal just enough to alleviate the problem. If you need to cover a large area or have connection problems even when you’re close to your router, a mesh Wi-Fi system, which generates Wi-Fi from multiple devices, may be beneficial.
Before purchasing any new equipment, try relocating your router to a more central location in your home, such as an open shelf away from any walls. (Do not conceal your router behind a cabinet or TV stand!) Depending on the circumstances, you may discover that optimizing your setup improves things sufficiently to render an upgrade unnecessary. Also, if you’re hiding your router in a closet, replacing it won’t help much.
Connectivity
In the age of Wi-Fi, relying on an Ethernet port may appear archaic, but a wired connection ensures a consistent, uninterrupted connection at the fastest possible speed. As a result, we believe it’s critical to purchase a router with plenty of extra Ethernet ports so you can connect your most important, bandwidth-hungry devices directly. (I, for example, use Ethernet for my PlayStation 5 and Apple TV.) Modern routers typically have four Ethernet ports, so you might not have to look far. Still, we thought it was important enough to mention, especially if you use your computer for work.
QoS
QoS stands for Quality of Service and allows data on the network to be prioritized.
In many cases, this is as simple as pressing a button on the router control panel and selecting which activities should be prioritized.
Gaming, streaming, and working from home are all popular options.
MU-MIMO
MU-MIMO does not increase the router’s maximum throughput, but rather its ability to communicate with multiple devices at the same time.
This is useful if you have a house full of smart devices that are constantly communicating with the router.
How To Setup A Router For Verizon FiOS?
How you set up a Verizon router is heavily influenced by the services you have with them.
The setup is very simple if you only have Verizon internet. Simply connect your router to the ONT via an Ethernet cable.
The setup becomes a little more difficult with internet and television service. Because you’ll need to connect the Coax cable from your ONT to the router at that point.
Furthermore, no third-party router has a Coax input.
This means you’ll need a MOCA adapter to connect it to your router.
Simply put, the setup is simple:
- Connect the Coax cable to the network input of the MOCA adapter.
- Connect the router and the adapter to the LAN ports using an Ethernet cable.
- Connect the ONT and the router using an additional ethernet cable to the WAN ports.
FAQs
Will any router work with Verizon Fios?
Yes, any modern router can be used with Verizon Fios with no restrictions. Verizon makes no requirements for using a third-party router. However, you must use Verizon’s modem.
How long will my router last?
Routers, like all technology, will eventually become obsolete, and you will need to replace an old router. Because new wireless standards always include support for older versions, it’s extremely rare that you’ll need to replace a router before it breaks. Having said that, we’d recommend checking in every five years or so to consider an upgrade. There is no hard and fast rule, but a five-year cycle will ensure that you always have something that supports the most recent Wi-Fi advancements.
Routers, like anything else, degrade over time, resulting in slower speeds, a reduced range, and other issues. It’s difficult to isolate a single issue, but if your router isn’t back to normal after a reboot, you should think about upgrading.
My ONT doesn’t have an ethernet port. What do I do?
If you have a slower internet plan, you may receive an ONT with only coaxial ports.
Because Verizon is the only provider with routers with Coax inputs, using a third-party router is impossible.
To resolve this, call Verizon and request that your ONT be changed, or get at least a 100 Mbps internet plan.
Conclusion
Whatever router you choose, it should provide a consistent connection that is resistant to the stresses of modern living. There are enough things to worry about when working remotely, and we don’t want your internet to be one of them. Whether you choose a 1 Gbps plan from Verizon Fios or something a little slower, the routers listed above will ensure your Wi-Fi can handle back-to-back video meetings, high-resolution media, and Netflix streaming.
