We live in a connected world, so it's no surprise that a vehicle router is becoming an increasingly popular choice for vehicle communication and entertainment. Auto routers are essential for vehicle owners who want to stay connected on the go. Plus, they provide security and peace of mind for vehicle fleet owners.
But with various options available on the market, it can be difficult to know what vehicle router is right for you and your needs. Therefore, before investing in a vehicle router, it's important to consider several factors to make an informed decision. Besides, vehicle routers can be expensive, so weighing the pros and cons of each option before making a purchase is essential.
So, if you're in the market for vehicle routers but need help with what to look for, read on to learn what to consider.
What Is a Vehicle Router?
Before getting into the nitty-gritty of vehicle router shopping, let's first define what vehicle routers are. Vehicle routers are gateways that provide secure, reliable wireless internet access within a vehicle area network (VAN). They typically connect to the vehicle's existing entertainment system and provide access to the internet and other wireless services. They use cellular networks such as 4G, 5G, and Wi-Fi to provide secure wireless connectivity and access to the internet.
Vehicle routers have various uses depending on the vehicle and the owner’s needs. These include:
- Providing vehicle occupants with access to the internet and vehicle entertainment systems, such as music and video streaming services.
- Securing vehicle communications, such as vehicle telematics and diagnostics.
- Enhancing vehicle safety by providing access to emergency services.
- Improving vehicle efficiency by providing real-time traffic and road condition updates.
Importance of Choosing the Right Vehicle Router
When choosing a vehicle router, the difference between making a smart purchase and a bad one can be significant. While there are various reasons why choosing the right router is crucial, your needs will determine the vehicle router that's best for you. For instance, connectivity for mission-critical applications will require a reliable and secure connection, whereas entertainment connectivity may not need the same level of security. Here is why it's important to invest in the right vehicle router:
- Saved time and money: Investing in the right vehicle router means you won't waste your time or money on a subpar device.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your vehicle router provides a secure, reliable connection means you can rest easy knowing that your fleet and passengers stay connected.
- Improved connectivity: The right vehicle router can provide increased connectivity and a secure network for mission-critical tasks, such as remote monitoring of vehicles and asset tracking.
7 Key Things To Consider When Purchasing Router for Vehicles
Now that you know why choosing the right vehicle routers is important, let's delve into the seven key considerations you should keep in mind when purchasing one:
Network Requirements
Before purchasing mobile routers, you should determine your network requirements. How many devices will be connected to the vehicle's Wi-Fi? What type of mobile network speeds do you need? Are you looking for a 4G or 5G router? Do you need additional features such as GPS tracking? Answering these questions will help you narrow your search and determine which vehicle router best fits your needs.
Hardware Considerations
Compatibility is key when it comes to auto routers. Different routers have different hardware requirements, so make sure the router you choose is compatible with other vehicle applications and systems. Additionally, it's important to consider battery life, storage capacity, and processor speed when shopping for vehicle WiFi routers.
Data Plans & Costs
The cellular carriers you select for your vehicle WiFi router will determine your data plan and costs. Different cellular carriers offer different plans, so it's important to research each one thoroughly to find one that best fits your needs. Plus, keep in mind any roaming fees associated with cellular carriers and data plans.
Installation and Maintenance
It's important to consider the installation and maintenance of your vehicle router. Some routers are plug-and-play, while others require a more complicated installation process. You should consider the cost of maintenance over time and any additional features you may need to keep your router running at optimal performance.
Durability
Car WiFi routers are exposed to a lot of wear and tear during their lifetime, so it's important to consider durability when shopping for vehicle routers. Look for car WiFi routers tested for vibration, temperature, water resistance, and other environmental factors. Durability also includes the quality of the materials used in its construction and the warranty and customer service offered by the manufacturer.
Security and Privacy
Secure connectivity is paramount if you're purchasing vehicle routers for mission-critical operations. Ensure the mobile routers you purchase have robust security features such as SSL encryption, secure authentication protocols, centralized configuration, and other measures to keep your data safe from hackers and other cyber threats. For instance, a centralized configuration system such as Cradlepoint Netcloud can ensure all routers are up-to-date with the latest security patches. Additionally, consider the privacy policies of the cellular carriers you're considering to ensure that your data is not shared or sold to third parties.
Signal Strength and Coverage
The signal strength and coverage of your vehicle router will determine the connectivity you have while driving. Before purchasing a vehicle router, research its service coverage and check what frequency bands it supports to ensure you have connectivity no matter where you take your vehicle.
Explore a Range of Vehicle Routers for Seamless on-the-go Connectivity
Vehicle routers and gateways are here to stay. With a vehicle router, you can keep your vehicle connected on the go and ensure that fleet operations and mission-critical tasks run smoothly. Nonetheless, exploring your options when shopping for vehicle routers is important to find the best one for your needs.
For vehicle router solutions that offer high-quality, reliable performance, and unbeatable customer service, look no further than Novotech. With a wide range of telematics, vehicle routers, LTE gateways, and accessories, Novotech has the perfect solution for your vehicle. Shop with us today to find the vehicle router you need for fast, reliable vehicle connectivity.