Linksys E1200 Wireless-N Router 300Mbps 2.4GHz 4-Port Ethernet

The Linksys E1200 is a single-band Wireless-N router built for standard home Wi-Fi, not large or multi-device commercial networks. It's a straightforward fit if you're connecting a normal household of laptops, phones and a smart TV, and you don't need coverage across a large building.

What it actually does

• Runs on the 2.4GHz band only, with wireless speeds up to 300Mbps — fine for browsing, email and streaming, but shared bandwidth if many devices are active at once.
• Uses MIMO antenna technology, which combines multiple antenna paths to extend coverage and keep the connection steadier when several devices are connected.
• Has 4 Ethernet ports for wiring in kit that benefits from a fixed connection — a desktop PC, smart TV or games console.
• Setup runs through Linksys Connect, a guided installer for Windows and Mac, so you're not digging through a web admin panel to get online.

Security and control

Security is handled with WPA2 encryption and a built-in firewall. On top of that you get parental controls, a guest network (keeps visitors off your main Wi-Fi), and basic connection monitoring so you can see what's attached.

Before you buy

Check your household's device count and where the router will sit — single-band 2.4GHz routers have decent range but no separate 5GHz band for less-congested speed. If you're replacing an existing router, confirm your ISP setup (modem-only vs modem-router) so you know how the E1200 slots in.