Try the Affordable and Secure Asus ExpertWiFi EBR63: A Hands-on Review of Wi-Fi 6 Router

Asus ExpertWiFi EBR63: A Powerful and Secure Router for Small Businesses

A Complete Network Solution for Small Businesses

The Asus ExpertWiFi product family is designed with small businesses and retail outfits in mind, providing a complete network security solution that’s both affordable and easy to deploy. Take the EBR63, for example, a deceptively small router that packs a punch with dual-band Wi-Fi 6 capabilities and a range of gateway security measures, all for a surprisingly reasonable £125.

Wi-Fi 6 and Gigabit Ports

The EBR63’s wireless capabilities are built around its dual-band Wi-Fi 6 services, with claimed speeds of 574Mbits/sec on its 2.4GHz radio and 2,402Mbits/sec on the 5GHz radio, with the latter supporting high-performance 160MHz Wi-Fi 6 channels. However, be aware that the router’s gigabit WAN and LAN ports may limit the full potential of its Wi-Fi 6 credentials.

AiMesh and Customization

One of the EBR63’s standout features is its support for Asus’ AiMesh technology. This allows you to use any compatible Asus wireless device to extend your network coverage with up to 12 mesh nodes. Plus, you can create up to five separate wireless SSIDs and even present custom captive portals to guests and customers.

Compact and Easy to Deploy

The EBR63 itself is a compact plastic unit that can be wall- or ceiling-mounted using the two holes in its rear panel. It also comes with a flip-out desk stand, although we wouldn’t recommend using it in a busy environment, as it’s a bit flimsy. Better to wall-mount it for stability.

Internet Redundancy and Backup

The EBR63 also features internet redundancy, with its dual WAN port allowing for failover or load balancing across two internet connections. And if your main internet connection goes down, you can quickly switch to a mobile internet backup by connecting a mobile device to the router’s USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 port.

Security and Management Features

The EBR63 delivers a wide range of security features, including a customizable SPI firewall with up to 128 rules, as well as Trend Micro-powered AiProtection Pro, which blocks malicious sites, stops infected systems from accessing the network, and provides intrusion prevention services and security assessment reports. Web content and app filtering can also be applied to selected clients, and the router supports PPTP, OpenVPN, IPsec, and WireGuard VPN servers.

Ease of Use and Deployment

Deployment is a breeze using the ExpertWiFi mobile app, which allows you to connect to the router and follow a wizard to activate the device and update its firmware. The EBR63’s web interface is also well-designed, making it easy to create separate wireless networks, set up custom captive portals, and apply web content and app filtering rules.

A Great Option for Small Businesses

In conclusion, the Asus EBR63 offers a powerful and secure router for small businesses, with a range of features that make it easy to manage and secure your network. While it may not be the most powerful router on the market, its combination of dual-band Wi-Fi 6 capabilities and gigabit ports make it a great option for those looking for a reliable and easy-to-use solution.

Other Options to Consider

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