Best Wireless Router For Penetrating Concrete Walls (2024)

If you’ve ever struggled to get reliable, fast internet at home or work, it may be due to the presence of thick concrete walls which get in the way of the network.

Finding the best router for penetrating concrete walls is therefore a priority for those wanting to eliminate WiFi dead zones and have access to speedy internet wherever they are in a given home or workplace.

Sometimes, the electromagnetic waves are either absorbed or reflected back by materials within the wall, which in turn weakens the speed and range of an internet connection.

Best Routers For Penetrating Concrete Walls

For a router to penetrate through concrete walls, it needs to be using the latest WiFi 6 wireless internet protocol and have options that can boost the internet range, such as dual or tri-bands, Power Boost options, or Mesh compatibility.

Luckily, most manufacturers such as Asus, TP-Link or Netgear, have products available which meet these criteria.

The most suitable WiFi router choice for your home or office setup will also depend on the total square footage, internet usage type, and the number of simultaneous users.

Top 7 WiFi Routers For Penetrating Concrete Walls (2024) 

Finding the best router to penetrate concrete walls is a challenge as you need a device that has extensive coverage while also offering high internet speeds.

Although many manufacturers may claim this is the case, it can be tricky to know what the quality options available are.

Below, we have identified the 7 best WiFi routers that can penetrate concrete walls and provide small, medium, or large properties with a brilliant network connection.

1. ASUS RT-AX3000 Router (Editor’s Choice)

Our Editor’s Choice for the best wireless router for concrete walls is the Asus RT-AX3000 WiFi 6 Router.

Design

The ASUS WiFi 6 Router (RT-AX3000) offers a fast and secure internet connection and is one of the most reliable next-generation routers available.

Ultra-fast WiFi is enabled through technology innovations within the unit, such as AiMesh technology and OFDMA.

The ASUS RT-AX3000 has the standard setup of WAN, LAN, and USB ports, providing wireless and Ethernet internet connectivity. The signal is maximized through the four high-gain antennas fitted to the device.

The high-gain technology targets radio signals with increased precision as they have a narrow radio beam, which leads to improved signal strength.

The router is dual-band, offering 2.4GHz and 5GHz to allow users to maximize network connection based on their locality.

Performance

The RT-AX3000 provides ultra-fast WiFi for users, with a total network speed of 3000 Mbps.

Broken down, the maximum speed on the 5GHz band is 2402 Mbps while the maximum speed on 2.4GHz is 575 Mbps. These speeds far exceed the performance of most everyday routers.

A great strength of the RT-AX3000 is that it can cover the whole home, breaking through solid wall structures with ease. The total range is 3000 square feet, which adequately covers small to medium size homes.

The router is mesh compatible which also extends the range, as you can have multiple mesh-compatible routers to connect to the RT-AX3000.

Other great performance features include Alexa compatibility, allowing users to change the router settings using voice control. Also, the RT-AX3000 mobile app which is Android and iOS compatible allows easy management of the system from your phone.

The security system uses AiProtection Pro which protects all connected devices within the home network from cyber-attacks.

The advanced parental controls also give families extra monitoring capability of their kid’s internet usage.

Specs

• Speed: 3000 Mbps
• Range: 3000 sq ft
• Bands: Dual
• Wireless Protocol: 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11ax, 802.11a, 802.11ac
• Ports: 6

Who It’s For

The RT-AX3000 is aimed at medium size households or small workplaces with high internet consumption. The high-quality security and control features also lend well to families with children.

Pros

• Fast internet speed.
• Suited for high internet consumption households or small workplaces
• Mesh compatible for extra strong coverage
• Quality security and parental control features

Cons

2. NETGEAR Orbi Mesh System (High Performance)

Design

The NETGEAR Orbi RBK852 is a high-performance router that utilizes WiFi 6 technological advances to deliver high-speed internet throughout the home.

The product uses Mesh technology to allow large properties to have equitable access to a fast internet connection.

Similar to other Mesh-compatible routers, the NETGEAR Orbi RBK852 has a modern design with a smooth white exterior and silver border.

The router device contains an LED light system that glows amber when booting and green when fully powered up. Helpfully, the unit will turn a magenta color if there are any connection issues.

The router is in the premium range and is available to purchase as a 2 or 3-device pack depending on the size of your property.

The purchasing package includes the Orbi router and one Orbi satellite, while an additional satellite is available if you have more rooms to bring the high-speed internet connection to.

In terms of users, the device router setup can handle up to 5000 square feet and 100 devices with simultaneous use including streaming and gaming.

Performance

The NETGEAR Orbi RBK852 is a tri-band setup, allowing users to maximize speed with the ultra-fast 6GHz band. The router is capable of delivering speeds of 6000 Mbps which outdo many competitors.

The high-speed internet is enabled by the best that WiFi6 technology has to offer. This includes the quality transmission of data using OFDMA and WPA3 encryption.

On the 5GHz band, the router delivers up to 2,400 Mbps, and 1,200 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band.

Within the unit, eight antennas are built in to maximize the signal coverage, while MU-MIMO technology allows for simultaneous data streaming, which ensures many users can benefit from the high speed at the same time.

The router is easy to manage via the Orbi app which is user-friendly for all ages. The app allows users to alter WiFi settings, inspect data usage and also manage permissions.

Users can also access the Netgear Armor to protect their network from cyber-attacks.

Specs

• Speed: 6 Gbps
• Range: up to 5000 sq. ft. and supports up to 100 devices.
• Bands: Tri-band
• Wireless Protocol: 802.11ax, 802.11ac
• Ports: 5

Who It’s For

This router is best used in very large family homes with many rooms and many simultaneous internet users.

The Mesh system is best utilized in homes of significant size, to justify the premium investment in the technology.

Pros

• Easy setup
• Premium design and specification
• The mesh system is ideal for large homes
• Vast coverage

Cons

• Premium price High on the price point
• No USB port

3. TP-Link Archer AX55 (Budget Friendly)

Design

The TP-Link Archer AX55 follows the same design scheme as TP-Link routers, with a flat rectangular unit with two antenna pairs located on the rear.

The TP-Link Archer AX21 is an affordable router for those wanting internet that can cover the whole household or workplace, without needing to break the bank.

Using the benefits of OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology, the Archer A55 can communicate with multiple high-consumption devices at the same time to ensure all users are benefiting from the high internet speed.

The router unit is designed with an improved battery performance which improves efficiency by reducing power consumption.

The Archer AX55 is also less likely to overheat due to the improved cooling system, which features a larger heat sink and redesigned case.

Performance

The TP-Link Archer AX55 generates a total speed of 2976 Mbps. This breaks down to 2402 Mbps on 5GHz and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz. These speeds far outperform many comparable-priced routers.

Within the TP-Link range, the AX55 is only slightly more expensive than the AX21 but has a vastly improved internet speed.

The router comes equipped with a premium-level security offering. With TP-Link HomeShield’s free service, your household network is kept incredibly secure.

The service includes a network security scan, easy parent control settings, and regular reports. For extra protection, the paid-for service is available.

Another great feature is Alexa compatibility for easy router management via voice control. The router is also compatible with most high-speed internet service providers including Verizon, AT&T, and Xfinity, but requires a modem or ONT box purchases separately.

Specs

• Speed: 2976 Mbps
• Range: Up to 2500 sq ft
• Bands: Dual Band
• Wireless Protocol: 802.11ac, 802.11g, 802.11b, 802.11ax, 802.11n
• Ports: 5

Who It’s For

The Archer AX55 is ideal for households on a limited budget who want to improve internet speed. The router works best in small to medium size dwellings.

Pros

• High-speed internet for an affordable price
• Strong free security settings
• Easy-to-use app for management
• Strong coverage within the home

Cons

4. TP-Link Deco S4 (Mesh System)

Design

The TP-Link AX3000 utilizes the latest WiFI6 Mesh technology to guarantee strong coverage throughout your home, removing those WiFi dead zones for good.

The Mesh technology ensures the same network is accessible across different sections of a home or workplace, allowing equally good internet speeds.

The router operates well in 5500 square feet and can handle up to 100 devices operating simultaneously. This ensures the router performs well in large homes or decent size workplaces.

The router design is cool and slick, with a smooth white cylindrical exterior and a black wired top. There is no visible antenna as they are built into the router, hidden from view.

The Deco S4 package comes with three devices to be placed strategically within your home or office environment. The easy portability of the devices allows them to be placed in areas where the best signal can be accessed, whether that be on a wall or desk.

Performance

The TP-Link AX3000 is better equipped compared to other TP-Link mesh-enabled routers, as it has the capacity for six ports including LAN, WAN, and USB, ensuring both wireless and wired internet are accessible.

The router generates speeds of 1200 Mbps, which although slower than other premium devices, comes into its own when considering the substantial range and coverage of the router.

The Ai-Mesh built into the router is very clever at reading environments and user activity to tailor the network signal. The router uses 2.4GHz and 5GHz bandwidth for tailored internet connectivity, wherever you are based.

The system is easily managed through the Deco app which allows users to manage network settings and parental controls, even when they are away from home.

The Alexa compatibility also ensures the router fits in well with the modern smart home.

Specs

• Speed: 1200 Mbps
• Range: up to 5,500 sq. ft and connects 150 devices.
• Bands: Dual-band
• Wireless Protocol: 802.11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g
• Ports: 3

Who It’s For

This router is best suited for houses with 3 to 5 bedrooms.

Pros

• Unrivalled coverage throughout the home
• Ai-Mesh allows for device learning and optimizing based on the environment
• Smooth installation

Cons

5. Motorola MG7700 (Modem Router Combo)

Design

The Motorola MG7700 is a popular modem router combo, which provides high-speed internet and reliable coverage within a home.

The 3×3 gigabit router is built into the 24×8 cable modem device, to prevent the need for purchasing separate modem and router units. This also reduces space, removes wires, and simplifies the whole setup process.

The router is designed as a slim rectangular unit that sits on a flat stand. It can easily be placed on a bookshelf or a wall near the coaxial cable. The approved internet service providers for the product are Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox

The device contains three internal antennas to maximize signal coverage and four LAN ports on the rear.

Performance

The Motorola MG7700 compares favorably against similar-priced modem router combos. The maximum modem speed is 1000 Mbps, however, the unit supports internet plans of up 800 Mbps.

A great feature of the product is the wireless power boost, which amplifies the wireless signals to the maximum legal limit to boost internet speed and range.

Internet speed is also improved by the AnyBeam beamforming technology which works on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

The Motorola MG7700 comes with a bespoke wireless security password to ensure a smooth and quick setup. Users can then easily change the password for their security management. The system is also built with an advanced firewall to protect your local network against cyber attacks.

Specs

• Speed: 1000 Mbps 
• Range: 253 devices
• Bands: Dual
• Wireless Protocol: IEEE 802.11 n, ac, g, and b
• Ports: 4

Who It’s For

The Motorola MG7700 is ideal for smaller properties that want to save on space by combining the modem and router.

Pros

• Combines the modem and router into one device
• Optional Power Boost to maximize WiFi speed and range
• Slim design

Cons

6. TP-Link Archer AX75 (Tri-Band Router)

Design

The TP-Link AX5400 Archer AX75 WiFi 6 router utilizes the technological advances of WiFi 6 to provide ultra-fast internet speeds for streamers, gamers, browsers, and downloaders.

The gigabit WiFi generates internet speeds of 5400 Mbps, easily handling 8K streaming.

The router exceeds similar-priced products through its tri-band, which enables users to benefit from 2.4GHz, 5.2GHz, and 5.8GHz bands.

The Archer AX75 adopts the typical TP-Link router design of a flat black rectangular unit with the antenna sticking up on the back and sides.

The antenna is built with beamforming technology and is a high gain which maximizes router coverage.

The router also supports OneMesh technology, which creates one unique network within your home which can connect to a OneMesh extender for full home coverage.

Performance

The Archer AX75 router delivers 2402 Mbps at the 5.2GHz and 5.8GHz bands, and this reduces to 574 Mbps at 2.4GHz. These speeds are very fast for most everyday users, and they can also easily handle high-consumption gaming and 8k streaming.

The Archer AX75 is a powerful device due to the 1.7GHz Quad-Core processor. This enables up to 6 simultaneous streams, and connectivity of over 100 devices at the same time.

An advantage of purchasing the Archer AX75 is the benefit of TP-Link’s HomeShield security service which ensures your home is well-protected from cyber attacks.

The WPA3 protocols also provide strong network protection and encryption.

The router can be centrally managed from the TP-Link app for user ease. The router is also compatible with most internet providers including The TP-Link AX5400 works with various internet service providers including AT&T, Xfinity, Cox, CenturyLink, and Spectrum.

Specs

• Speed – up to 5,400 Mbps.
• Range – supports up to 100 plus devices.
• Bands – tri-band
• Wireless Protocol – 802.11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g
• Ports – 5

Who It’s For

This router is ideally suited to high-consumption households or small to medium size workplaces. The OneMesh system can also be utilized by large households with many rooms.

Pros

• Tri-band setup allows for maximum users with minimal interference
• OneMesh is compatible to extend the range
• High-powered antenna improve signal coverage
• Quality security options

Cons

7. ASUS RT-AX82U (For Gaming & Streaming)

Design

The ASUS RT-AX82U AX5400 is a router that is designed and performs to meet the needs of gamers.

The funky, mask-like design, is eye-catching with the ASUS Aura RGB light effects giving a range of options for users to play with.

The device includes a specific gaming port that allows users to connect the router to their PC or gaming device.

Through establishing this connection, the ASUS RT-AX82U then prioritizes the connection to the wired device to provide a stable and fast internet connection.

The dual-band WiFi router also allows users to avoid congestion on the 2.4GHz band, in favor of the 5GHz band which offers speeds that are 8.4 x faster and perfectly suited to gaming.

Performance

The ASUS RT-AX82U maximizes the WiFi 6 technology to deliver games at faster speeds, lower latency, an increased range, and greater energy efficiency.

The device produces speeds of up to 5400 Mbps. The router connects directly to gaming devices and also has a specific Mobile Game Mode which prevents lag when playing on your smartphone.

A great performance feature of the ASUS RT-AX82U is the adaptive Quality of Service. This allows users to prioritize certain traffic on your network compared to others.

For example, a game or a stream may be prioritized ahead of web surfing, to reduce the latency across the WiFi network.

The ASUS RT-AX82U is also AiMesh compatible, which means it creates a full home network by connecting with other ASUS routers.

The Mesh system is easily managed from the central application and eliminates WiFi dead zones.

Specs

• Speed: 5400 Mbps 
• Range: Up to 2000 sq ft
• Bands: Dual
• Wireless Protocol: 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11ac, 802.11g
• Ports: 6

Who It’s For

The ASUS RT-AX82U is built for gamers. Whether it be in large households with multiple gamers or an elite gamer setup.

Pros

• AiMesh compatible to eliminate dead zones
• Ideal for gamers
• Adaptive QoS and gaming modes to reduce latency

Cons

• Issues when doing firmware updates

Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best WiFi Router For Brick Walls

Speed

Router’s speed is important because the higher the speed the faster your internet connection will be. You will need a faster router if you use your router for streaming and gaming.

The router and the Internet Service Provider (ISP) determine the maximum speed of a network. If the Internet Service Provider has a small bandwidth with a router that provides ultra-fast speed, the router will give that small bandwidth.

A slower router as well provides slow speed even with ultra-fast bandwidth.

Routers designed for concrete walls are much more powerful than traditional routers. Hence, they can handle more data as well as provide faster speeds. This should be considered when you are looking to download large files or stream video.

WiFi Range & Coverage

WiFi range is the distance that the router can cover. Larger homes require a router with long range.

Routers for thick walls need a broader range of connections. This will help to enhance the signal power to become a reliable network. Powerful routers push wireless signals further.

The best routers for penetrating walls have the best ranges that enable the WiFi signal to get through a thick wall.

Routers come in various ranges. Some routers offer connectivity up to 1200 square feet while others can spread their signals up to 5000 square feet.

Usually, standard routers can transmit signals to a certain distance. Routers that need to penetrate walls are designed to be able to push the signal further.

Dual Band vs Tri-Band

The main difference between a tri-band and dual-band router is the bands of frequency they support.

In recent times, most routers come with 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. 2.4GHz is slower with wider range while the 5GHz band is quicker but has a reduced range.

Dual-band routers support 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands while tri-band have an extra 5GHz or a 6GHz band.

This allows faster speed and improves the ability of the router to deliver WiFi connection to multiple devices.

Dual-band routers are good for households with a small family and for one person if you do not have tons of internet-connected devices.

Tri-band routers are great and ideal for big families or people with a lot of internet-connected devices, like people with fully functional smart home setups.

Triband will make it better for your home if multiple people stream a lot of content at the same time.

Antennas

One of the most important factors in ensuring a good connection through concrete walls is the type of antenna you have.

An antenna is a metallic structure that captures and transmits radio electromagnetic waves.

For your devices to communicate with the router, your router sends wireless signals of radio frequency.  A router and a wireless signal communicate over radio frequencies using antennas.

Antennas may be externally visible while some wireless devices are internal to the device. Omnidirectional antennas broadcast in all directions from a single point. The signal is sent perpendicularly from the long side of the antenna.

There is also an internal directional antenna that emits more focused signals from several points in the device.

High-gain antennas provide greater signal penetration and have a longer range. This comes in handy when dealing with thicker obstructions like concrete walls.

Router Features

To manage how your Wi-Fi network is used ensure that the router has a QoS option, Parental controls, Beamforming, and MU-MIMO.

• Parental controls allow network access limitation for some users to specific days and times. It is ideal for parents who keep tabs on their children’s social media and online gaming activities. Some routers offer basic parental control such as website blocking and access scheduling. Others offer more improved controls such as internet pausing or age-appropriate presets denying access to social media containing adult content, games, blogs, and shopping.
• QoS (Quality of Service) setting decides the type of clients and applications that get network priority.  For example, if one device is downloading files and another is streaming Netflix, the streaming device can be given priority to avoid choppy videos. Gaming lag time can be reduced by prioritizing online gaming.
• MU-MIMO enables you to simultaneously communicate with multiple devices. A home with many smart devices that uses the router simultaneously needs MU-MIMO.
• Beamforming is great for larger homes because they improve router signal quality and range.

Where To Place the Router If You Have Concrete or Brick Walls

Considering a good location for your router if you have concrete or brick walls is important.

For example, radio signals do not only broadcast in one direction. They are like water ripples where the router is placed at the center with coverage radiating outward. If you place a router in a corner near the wall, it reduces the usable coverage.

Concrete and bricks absorb WiFi signals better than wood. You should place your router in a centralized location at home and should be free from walls.

This allows the signal to travel despite the walls. When you place your router directly next to concrete, it may impair the signal. It also reduces the wasted coverage area and reduces blockage by the walls.

FAQs

Does WiFi 6 Penetrate Walls Better?

Yes, WiFi 6 goes through the walls.

WiFi 6 is the latest technology that integrates advanced technologies. It increases the speed in congested areas up to four times. WiFi 6 works well for families with any devices at home and they have children using the internet as well.

The WiFi 6 works better when there are multiple devices. There is also enhanced management of battery-powered devices. WiFi 6 makes the 2.4GHz band faster and easily connects multiple devices to the internet.

Is Mesh WiFi System Better Than WiFi Router for Brick Walls?

A mesh WiFi system forms a wireless blanket because of several interconnected nodes or devices. The blankets’ signal works well when they are placed against thick or solid walls.

Mesh WiFi can also penetrate thick walls which is an advantage. It also increases the network coverage for the walls made of reinforced concrete.

How To Improve Coverage & Speed If I Have Concrete Walls?

Using mesh networks or a Wi-Fi extender will help you improve your WiFi extender. To cover more space, use the best wireless access point or a powerline adapter to prevent WiFi dead zones.

Having a decent site for the router is important. Wood, bricks, or concrete do not absorb WiFi signals. Therefore, place your router in a central position away from the walls.

Why Do Brick and Concrete Walls Interfere with WiFi Signals?

The substance of walls can disrupt the wireless signal. This is because the wireless router signal must travel through the wall material to get to its destination.

Depending on the material of the wall, the electromagnetic waves can pass through the substance, be absorbed, and even be reflected.

Bricks and concrete partially absorb the wireless signal, making it a challenge to get to the destination with interference.

This causes a slowdown because of the overall range. Hence better to pay close attention to your router.

Final Words

Hopefully, you now feel well-informed about some of the great WiFi router options that can penetrate through concrete walls and provide your home or workplace with high-quality internet speed, great coverage, and eliminate dead zones.

Our choice for the best WiFi router for penetrating concrete walls is the ASUS (RT-AX3000). This router delivers high-performing internet speeds without the premium price tag.

The router has all the benefits of WiFi 6, including coverage in large properties as well as super reliable network protection to keep the household network secure from any external attacks.

When looking for a WiFi router that can break through walls at home or work, you should prioritize routers that have a range of at least 2000 square feet, are compatible with Mesh technology, and also have prioritization features to put high consumption activities to the front of the queue.