Today, we’re diving into the world of high-speed internet with the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Gigabit Dual Band Wireless Wifi 6 Router. In an era where every device in our homes seems to demand an internet connection, from fridges sending shopping lists to smartphones streaming the latest binge-worthy series, the question is: Can this router keep up with the Joneses of the digital world? Let’s find out if it’s more of a hare or a tortoise in the race for connectivity.
What exactly is the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Gigabit Dual Band Wireless Wifi 6 Router?
In a nutshell, the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 is a compact powerhouse designed to bring the future of internet connectivity into your living room, study, or any corner of your home craving high-speed internet. With its Wi-Fi 6 technology, it promises to deliver up to 1.8 Gbps of speed, ensuring that your devices are more than just connected; they’re on a virtual speedway. But it’s not just about speed. In today’s smart home, security and customisation are equally paramount, and this router aims to tick all those boxes, making it a relevant choice for tech enthusiasts and smart homes alike.
Benefits of using this router
- Ultra-fast Wi-Fi 6: Enjoy streaming, gaming, and browsing without the dreaded buffer symbol.
- High device capacity: Connect up to 120 devices, because let’s face it, we’re all tech hoarders now.
- Robust security: Sleep easy knowing your data is encrypted and secure.
- Practical file sharing: Share files with ease, making work-from-home a breeze.
- User-friendly: Setup so simple, even your technophobe aunt could do it.
Un-boxing & First Impressions
Upon unboxing the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800, my first thought was, “Is this all?” It’s compact and unassuming, yet feels solid in hand. The design is sleek, with a minimalist vibe that won’t scream “I’m a tech gadget!” in your living room. It’s equipped with three Gigabit LAN ports, promising stable wired connections for when Wi-Fi just won’t cut it. My initial impression? This little box might just be the silent hero of my smart home setup.
Features: Quick overview of what you’re getting
- Wi-Fi 6 technology: Up to 1.8 Gbps speed.
- Supports up to 120 devices: No more fighting for bandwidth.
- Robust security: IPV6 and VPN encryption.
- NAS feature: Easy storage and sharing.
- User-friendly: Simple setup and customisable OpenWrt OS.
- Compact design: Sleek and travel-friendly.
- Three Gigabit LAN ports: For stable wired connections.
- Advanced MU-MIMO and OFDMA technology: Efficient connections.
- IPV6, OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Cloudflare encryption: Enhanced security.
- Customisable OpenWrt 21.02 operating system: For the tinkerers.
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface: No tech degree required.
- Exceptional customer support: They’ve got your back.
What’s missing, you ask? Well, it’s a real shame that gaming features aren’t specified, as many of us look for routers that can support our late-night gaming marathons without lag. Additionally, while the router performs admirably, the heat buildup during extended use and the somewhat subpar quality of the included power supply are slight letdowns.
Smart Features
When it comes to smart home technology, the ability to integrate seamlessly with other devices and platforms is key. The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Gigabit Dual Band Wireless Wifi 6 Router doesn’t disappoint in this arena. Let’s dive into some of its standout smart features.
Compatibility with Alexa – The router’s compatibility with Alexa allows for voice-controlled internet management. Imagine pausing the internet or enabling guest Wi-Fi with just a simple voice command. This feature adds a layer of convenience and futuristic control to your smart home setup.
What we liked about the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800
No introduction needed here; let’s jump straight into the features that impressed us the most.
Impressive Wi-Fi 6 Performance
The router’s Wi-Fi 6 capability is a game-changer, offering speeds up to 1.8 Gbps. During my testing, I experienced seamless connectivity across multiple devices, which is crucial in a smart home filled with IoT gadgets. The efficiency and stability provided by MU-MIMO and OFDMA technology mean that every device gets its fair share of bandwidth, ensuring a smooth and lag-free internet experience.
Advanced Security Features
In today’s digital age, security is paramount. The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 router provides peace of mind with its robust security features, including IPV6, OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Cloudflare encryption. These features ensure that your browsing is private and secure, protecting your smart home from potential cyber threats.
Customisation Galore
The customisable OpenWrt 21.02 operating system is a tinkerer’s dream. It offers extensive customisation options, allowing advanced users to tailor the router to their specific needs and preferences. Whether it’s setting up a custom firewall or configuring a VPN, the possibilities are nearly endless.
Exceptional Customer Support
Good customer support can be the difference between a frustrating experience and a fantastic one. The GL.iNet team goes above and beyond, providing responsive and incredibly helpful support. Whether it’s troubleshooting an issue or answering queries, their dedication to customer satisfaction is evident.
What we were disappointed with
Even the best products have their flaws. Here are a few areas where the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 could improve.
Heat Buildup
It’s a real shame that the router tends to get warm during extended use. While this doesn’t affect performance, it could be a concern for users in warmer climates or those without adequate ventilation. Implementing better heat dissipation in future models could alleviate this issue.
Power Supply Quality
The included power supply left much to be desired. Its subpar quality is a stark contrast to the router’s overall performance and features. An upgrade to a more reliable and durable power supply would enhance the user experience significantly.
Connectivity Challenges
Despite its many strengths, the router faced some challenges in environments with heavy internet censorship and VPN blocks. This limitation could be a deal-breaker for users in certain regions. Expanding the router’s compatibility and improving its ability to navigate these challenges would make it an even more versatile tool for global users.
Getting Set Up
Setting up the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Gigabit Dual Band Wireless Wifi 6 Router was, on the whole, a breeze, but not without its quirks. From unboxing to surfing the web, the process took me less than 15 minutes, which is impressive for a device boasting such a complex array of features. However, I did stumble upon a few hiccups that other users have also reported, such as occasional connectivity issues during the initial setup, especially when trying to configure the router for specific network environments.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to getting started:
- Unbox the router and connect it to your modem using the included Ethernet cable.
- Power up the router and wait for it to boot. This usually takes a minute or two.
- Connect to the router’s default Wi-Fi network, which is usually printed on the bottom of the device.
- Access the router’s web interface by entering the default IP address into your browser.
- Follow the on-screen setup wizard to configure your network settings. This includes setting up your Wi-Fi networks and passwords.
- For advanced users, delve into the customisation options offered by the OpenWrt 21.02 operating system to tailor your network preferences.
While the setup is straightforward for most, it’s worth noting that some users have reported needing to reset the router to factory settings to resolve initial connectivity issues. A bit of patience and perhaps a quick visit to the GL.iNet forums might be necessary for those rare cases.
Build Quality and Extras
Regarding extras, the warranty coverage is comprehensive, offering peace of mind to users worried about long-term reliability. This, coupled with GL.iNet’s responsive customer support, enhances user confidence in the product’s durability and the company’s commitment to their satisfaction.
Who is this product best suited to?
If You’re a Tech Enthusiast with a Smart Home
The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 shines in environments where multiple devices require simultaneous high-speed internet access. Its advanced Wi-Fi 6 technology and support for up to 120 devices make it a powerhouse for smart homes brimming with IoT devices.
If You Value Security and Privacy
With its robust security features, including IPV6, OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Cloudflare encryption, this router is ideal for users who prioritise their online privacy and security. Whether you’re working from home or managing sensitive data, the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 has got you covered.
If You’re Always on the Move
Its compact and travel-friendly design, coupled with three Gigabit LAN ports for stable wired connections, makes the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 perfect for those who need a reliable internet connection on the go.
Who should avoid this
Value for Money
Considering its advanced features, high device capacity, and robust security, the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 offers great value for money. It’s competitively priced within its range, especially when you factor in the versatility and performance it brings to the table. While there are cheaper options available, few match the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 in terms of overall functionality and reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for those in need of a high-performance router.
The verdict: Is the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Gigabit Dual Band Wireless Wifi 6 Router worth a buy?
My experience with the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Gigabit Dual Band Wireless Wifi 6 Router has been largely positive. Its lightning-fast Wi-Fi speeds, support for a high number of devices, and enhanced security features make it a standout choice for tech enthusiasts and smart homes. The easy setup and user-friendly interface, coupled with exceptional customer support, further enhance its appeal. However, it’s important to consider the potential heat buildup and power supply quality issues. Compared to similar routers, the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 holds its ground with its advanced features and customisation options. Overall, I recommend the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 for anyone looking for a reliable and secure wireless networking solution, provided the minor drawbacks are not deal-breakers for you.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | GL.iNet |
| WiFi Speed | Up to 1.8 Gbps |
| CPU | IPQ6000 1.2GHz Quad-core |
| Device Capacity | Up to 120 devices |
| Security Features | IPV6, OpenVPN, WireGuard, Cloudflare encryption |
| File Sharing | NAS feature |
| Operating System | OpenWrt 21.02 |
| Design | Compact and travel-friendly |
| LAN Ports | Three Gigabit |
| Setup | User-friendly interface |
| Customer Support | Responsive and helpful |
| Heat Management | May warm up with extended use |
| Power Supply Quality | Potential issues noted |
| Connectivity in Censored Environments | Challenges reported |
| Portability | Good, with some limitations |
| Price | Competitive |
| Warranty | Comprehensive coverage |
