Tenda AC18 WiFi router: Pros and Cons

The AC18 is a cheap router. It supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) for faster wireless speeds. You can connect supported USB devices to the router. Tenda provides affordable networking solutions. They are accessible to many users.

Tenda AC18 specifications

Body

The dimensions and design of a router can impact its cooling capabilities. Routers with larger dimensions may have more space for internal cooling mechanisms. 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

The Tenda AC18 router has a Broadcom BCM4709C0 @ 1.4 GHz processor. 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. Tenda often releases firmware updates. They improve the router's features, security, and bugs. They also add new features. The 12 V / 2.5 A PSU provides power to the router. If it breaks, you can replace it with a new one.

Network

Like many modern routers, the Tenda AC18 supports many features and tech. They improve your network's connectivity and security. The IPv4 is the fourth iteration of the Internet Protocol (IP). It is the most widely used version of IP on the internet today. The latest firmware supports IPv6. It provides a system to identify and locate computers on networks. 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. PPTP creates a VPN tunnel between two endpoints. It allows secure communication over an insecure network, such as the internet.

Wireless

This router has 3 x 3 dBi, fixed antennas. Antennas are key parts of wireless routers. They send and receive radio signals to make wireless connections. The router supports the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. The 5 GHz band is less crowded. This leads to less interference and a clearer wireless signal. The AC18 router is 5 GHz capable. The Wi-Fi router offers fast data speeds. They are good for streaming HD video, online gaming, and large file transfers.

The top speed, 600 + 1300 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

The USB 3 ports provide a fast interface for external storage with data transfer rates of up to 4.8 Gbps. USB print servers let you connect a USB printer to your network. This makes it accessible to many devices. You can connect external storage devices such as USB flash drives or USB hard drives to your router.

Administration

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 Tenda 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.

Tenda AC18 photos

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Robert Miller

For over 15 years, I've immersed myself in the world of networking devices as a tech aficionado. I've dedicated myself to thoroughly testing and analyzing routers and other networking gear. I aim to provide thorough reviews. They will give you the knowledge needed to improve your network.