Linksys Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5 router review
Linksys introduced the Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5 router in 2020. It is powered by Qualcomm IPQ4019 @ 716 MHz chipset, 256 MB of RAM, and 256 MB of flash memory.
Wondering if this Linksys router is awesome? Stay tuned!
Table of Contents
Our personal experiences and opinions form the basis of this article. We aimed to share insights on a topic, and we hoped others would find it useful and inspirational. The specs below rely on official manufacturer data, but we also consider user reviews. If you noticed any mistakes or missing details about the Linksys Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5 is a powerful router. It is full of features and made for advanced networking. The USB connectors on the router add versatility to your network. They enable file sharing, printer sharing, and other USB functions. Linksys has a history of introducing innovative features and technologies into their products.
Linksys Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5 specifications
Brand | Linksys |
---|---|
Name | Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5 |
Type | MR6350 |
Rating | |
Launch | 2020 |
Body
Dimensions | 205 x 150 x 137 mm |
---|---|
Weight | 880 g |
If you have limited space, like in a small apartment or office, the dimensions can determine if it can fit there. If you plan to mount your router on a wall or ceiling, the weight can affect the mounting process. It also affects the type of mounting hardware needed.
System
Chipset | Qualcomm IPQ4019 @ 716 MHz |
---|---|
RAM | 256 MB |
Flash | 256 MB |
OS | Linksys |
Power supply | 12 V / 1.5 A |
The Qualcomm IPQ4019 @ 716 MHz CPU is key. It, along with factors like RAM and firmware, decides how well the router works. The 256 MB of RAM enables the router to handle multiple tasks and processes concurrently. Flash memory retains its data even when the router is off. This allows the router to keep its firmware and settings across reboots. Upgrading router firmware has become simple and user-friendly. The Linksys provides the right power supply. It is 12 V / 1.5 A, this matches the router's voltage needs.
Network
Protocols | IPv4 IPv6 |
---|---|
LAN ports | 4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps |
WAN ports | 1 x 10/100/1000 Mbps |
Mobile network | no |
VPN support | no |
Like many modern routers, the Linksys Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5 supports many features and tech. They improve your network's connectivity and security. Most networking equipment, like routers and switches, supports IPv4. The Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5 router is also compatible with IPv6. IPv6 has a much bigger address space. It also offers many enhancements and improvements over IPv4. Gigabit Ethernet ports support data transfer rates of up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps). A Gigabit WAN port is helpful. It is useful when your internet plan supports high speeds.
Wireless
Antennas | 2 x 4 dBi fixed |
---|---|
2.4 GHz | yes |
5 GHz | yes |
6 GHz | no |
60 GHz | no |
Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Class | AC1300 |
Speed | 867 + 400 Mbps |
Transmit power | 30 dBm |
Security | WEP WPA WPA2 WPS |
Guest network | yes |
The 2 x 4 dBi, fixed antennas allow sending and getting many data streams at once. This boosts overall throughput and improves Wi-Fi performance. The router supports the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. To optimize your Wi-Fi experience, it's often recommended to use a combination of both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. The Wi-Fi router offers fast data speeds. They are good for streaming HD video, online gaming, and large file transfers.
The top speed, 867 + 400 Mbps, is the highest data rate the router can reach. It's the theoretical limit in perfect conditions. WEP was the first Wi-Fi security protocol. But it is now seen as weak and easy to hack. The introduction of WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) improved upon WEP. It provides stronger security. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) provides an easy method. It connects devices to a Wi-Fi network.
Connectivity
USB ports | 1 x USB 3.0 |
---|---|
Print server | yes |
File server | yes |
The USB 3 ports provide a fast interface for external storage with data transfer rates of up to 4.8 Gbps. A USB print server adds print functionality. You can manage settings, watch queues, and control access from one place. The Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5 router lets you schedule backups. You can back up to the connected USB storage device.
Administration
Default IP | 192.168.1.1 |
---|---|
Default username | admin |
Default password | admin |
Changing the password often is a good security practice. It protects your network and devices from unauthorized access. Changing the default password improves your router's security. It reduces the risk of unauthorized individuals controlling your network.
Pros and Cons
Every router, including this Linksys one, has its good sides and not-so-good sides. Let's take a closer look at both to get a full understanding of what this router can do. We'll talk about what it does well and also where it could use some improvements. Just remember, this is just what I think, and you might see things differently.
Pros
- generous memory
- plentiful flash
- IPv6 capable
- high-speed LAN port
- high-speed WAN port
- works on 5 GHz band
- WPS friendly
- USB 3 compatible
- printserver functionality
- fileserver operation
Cons
- missing Wi-Fi 6 support
- incompatible with WPA3
Linksys Max-Stream Mesh WiFi 5 photos
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