The ASUS RT-BE88U is a cutting-edge WiFi 7 router that offers exceptional performance and advanced features. As one of the few routers to support the latest WiFi standard, the RT-BE88U delivers significant improvements over its predecessors. In this article, we will delve into the key features, performance, and overall value of this powerful router.
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WiFi 7 Technology
The adoption of WiFi 7 technology in the RT-BE88U brings several notable benefits. Firstly, it offers significantly faster speeds compared to previous WiFi standards. This is especially beneficial for demanding applications such as online gaming, 4K streaming, and large file transfers. Secondly, WiFi 7 increases network capacity, allowing for more devices to connect simultaneously without experiencing congestion. This is particularly useful in crowded households or offices with multiple users and devices. Finally, WiFi 7 introduces new technologies like 4K QAM and OFDMA, which further enhance efficiency and performance.
Our test setup: – Server Desktop connected to router via 2.5GbE port – Client Laptop connected to router via WiFi| WiFi 7 | WiFi 6 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5GHz | 2.4GHz | 5GHz | 2.4GHz | |
| Transfer Speed (MB/s) | 180 | 36 | 167 | 35 |
We compared WiFi 7 and its predecessor WiFi 6 and found out the the overall transfer speed has increased. This is excellent for high speed Internet and even better for local file sharing across different machines. Besides, the real hidden benefit of WiFi 7 is its ability to support more devices without choking the network.
Based on the official specification, the total throughput is up to 7200MBps, combining 5764MBps on the 5GHz band and 1376MBps on 2.4GHz band. In contrary, the RT-BE88U does not support 6GHz band.
Nonetheless, the router still supports Dual-band Multi-Link Operation (MLO) that intelligently manages traffic and aggregates bandwidth across both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Since both bands offers different types of pros and cons, connecting to multiple bands enables seamless switching for better user experience.
10 Gigabit Ethernet Ports
The RT-BE88U is equipped with two 10 Gigabit ports, four 2.5 Gigabit ports, and four Gigabit ports, providing ample connectivity options for high-speed devices. This is especially important for users who need to connect wired devices such as gaming consoles, NAS, or PCs to the network.
The 10 Gigabit ports ensure that these devices can fully utilize the router’s capabilities and avoid bottlenecks. Most importantly, one of the 10 Gigabit ports supports SFP+ module. It is an enhanced SFP form factor pluggable transceiver that fits into the SFP+ port of the switch or other networking device supporting a higher speed of 8G/10G/16G.
AiMesh Compatibility
One of the standout features of the RT-BE88U is its compatibility with ASUS’s AiMesh technology. This allows you to create a seamless and reliable WiFi network throughout your home or office, even in areas with poor coverage. By using multiple AiMesh nodes, you can eliminate dead zones and ensure strong WiFi coverage everywhere.
Subscription-free Network Security
The ASUS RT-BE88U includes AiProtection Pro, a comprehensive network security suite that provides robust protection against online threats. AiProtection Pro features include:
- Intrusion Prevention System (IPS):Â Blocks malicious attacks from hackers and other intruders.
- Malware Protection:Â Scans and blocks malicious software that may attempt to infect your devices.
- Infected Device Quarantine:Â Isolates infected devices to prevent them from spreading malware to other devices on the network.
- Parental Controls:Â Helps manage internet access for children and other users, including website filtering and time limits.
- Automatic Firmware Updates:Â Ensures that the router is always up-to-date with the latest security patches.
AiProtection Pro provides peace of mind by safeguarding your network and devices from online threats, making it a valuable feature of the ASUS RT-BE88U.
Advanced Features
In addition to its core features, the RT-BE88U offers a range of advanced options for customization and optimization. These include:
- Adaptive QoS:Â Prioritizes network traffic based on application type, ensuring smooth streaming and gaming experiences.
- Parental controls:Â Helps manage internet access for children and other users.
- VPN Fusion:Â Allows you to connect to multiple VPN servers simultaneously.
- ASUS Router App:Â Provides easy management and control of the router using your smartphone.
Conclusion
With its powerful hardware, advanced features, and AiMesh compatibility, the RT-BE88U is an excellent choice for users who require maximum network performance. While it may be more expensive than WiFi 6 routers, the RT-BE88U is a worthwhile investment for those who demand the best.
Key Features:
- WiFi 7 technology
- 2x 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- AiProtection Pro
- AiMesh compatibility
- Adaptive QoS
- Parental controls
- VPN Fusion
- ASUS Router App
Pros:
- Fast speeds
- Wide coverage
- Low latency
- Easy to set up and manage
Cons:
- Does not support 6GHz band
- Premium priced compared to WiFi 6 routers
- May not be necessary for users with less demanding network needs
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