When looking for the best router for CenturyLink, you need to consider certain factors such as coverage, range, wireless protocol, subscribed plan, and connection type.
CenturyLink’s Fiber and DSL internet connection plans have notable differences in terms of technology, speeds, and pricing.
DSL makes use of existing telephone lines to send high-frequency, digital data through a modem router combo device (gateway), while fiber sends data using light pulses in optical cables and uses an ONT box and a router to create the local network.
Fiber provides faster internet speeds compared to DSL and is also higher in price.
Editor's Choice
The ASUS RT-AX3000 is our top choice for the best router for CenturyLink as it features WiFi 6 (802.11ax) which is the latest technology and next-generation standard that is 2.7 times faster than WiFi 5. Also, the 802.11ax wireless protocol provides future-proof technologies, higher network efficiency, greater coverage, improved battery life, and faster WiFi speeds for your connected devices.
High Performance
The Netgear RAX50 is our high-performing option that features WiFi 6 technology to ensure that you are enjoying uninterrupted HD video gaming, streaming, and web conferencing. The blazing WiFi speeds of up to 5.4 Gbps allow you to stream, download, and transfer 4.5 times faster than before. It provides coverage of up to 2500 sq. ft. and can connect up to 25 devices.
Budget Friendly
The Linksys Hydra 6 provides you with WiFi 6 speeds using an intelligent mesh at an affordable price. This ensures that you have the fastest connection without any lags in everything that you do from streaming your favourite content to next-level gaming. The Qualcomm chipset offers the ultimate mesh WiFi 6 for wire-like low latency, stable streaming, and extremely fast performance.
Below, we examine 7 CenturyLink compatible routers that scored the best during the tests conducted by our team of network engineers, who tested 14 products in a two-week period.
Best Router For CenturyLink Fiber (2024)
- Best Overall: ASUS RT-AX3000
- High Performance: Netgear Nighthawk RAX50
- Budget Friendly: Linksys Hydra 6
- For Gaming: ASUS RT-AX82U
- Mesh WiFi: TP-Link Deco X55
- Best Security Features: Synology RT2600ac
- Best For CenturyLink 1 Gig: TP-Link Archer AX73
Top 7 CenturyLink Compatible Routers
The routers reviewed below come with features that make them perfect for CenturyLink Internet Services.
They are reliable, fast, and long-lasting, making them a great choice for either business or home use.
Paying attention to the design and performance features of each product will help you in making an informed decision on which router to get for your internet needs.
1. ASUS RT-AX3000 (Editor’s Choice)
Design
The ASUS RT-AX3000 features WiFi 6 (802.11ax) which is the latest technology and next-generation standard that is 2.7 times faster than WiFi 5.
It comes with OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies for simultaneous streaming of multiple devices.
The RT-AX3000 delivers an internet speed of up to 3000 Mbps: 575 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band. Also, it supports 160 MHz bandwidth and 1024-QAM.
Performance
The 802.11ax wireless protocol on the RT-AX3000 provides future-proof technologies, higher network efficiency, greater coverage, improved battery life, and faster WiFi speeds for your connected devices.
If you want to extend the range of your WiFi network, you can use the AiMesh tool to add satellites to the network and place them in different parts of your home.
This setup creates a mesh system that is very strong which from our tests provided stable internet coverage throughout the home.
The dual-band WiFi ensures there are fewer disruptions when more devices are connected to the network for smooth gaming and a 4K streaming experience.
The AiProtection Pro is a combination of antivirus and parental controls which helps in preventing access to dangerous content and providing protection from internet attacks and threats to ensure that the network is safe for the entire family.
The Adaptive Quality of Service allows you to assign profiles to certain devices like gaming which ensures they are performing better when doing the tasks assigned to them.
The ASUS Router app enables you to control and customize each feature as well as manage the network settings using Alexa voice control. The app can be downloaded on both iOS and Android devices.
Who It’s For
The ASUS RT-AX3000 is recommended for users who are looking for a device that offers the best value for money but still provides a great mix of features such as better performance, range, security, and speed.
Specs
- Speed: 3000 Mbps
- Range 3000 sq. ft.
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11n, 802.11b, 802.11ax, 802.11a, 802.11ac
- Ports: 5 Ethernet and 1 USB.
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros
- Extensive coverage.
- Stable WiFi performance.
- Advanced security features.
- The internet speed is super-fast.
Cons
- Does not have multi-gig ports.
2. Netgear Nighthawk RAX50 (High Performance)
Design
The Netgear RAX50 features WiFi 6 technology to ensure that you are enjoying uninterrupted HD video gaming, streaming, and web conferencing.
The blazing WiFi speeds of up to 5.4 Gbps allow you to stream, download, and transfer 4.5 times faster than before.
The RAX50 provides coverage of up to 2500 sq. ft. and can connect up to 25 devices.
Performance
You can easily create a wired connection and connect your streaming players, gaming consoles, computers, and more using the four ethernet ports.
Additionally, you can create personal cloud storage which you can access from anywhere using the USB port.
The RAX50 can support the latest 1G internet plans. So, simply connect the internet using an ethernet cable to the WAN port and begin sharing across all your devices.
With a 30-day free trial, the NETGEAR Armor protects your connected devices and home network from internet attacks and threats while the Parental Controls helps your kids to develop healthy internet habits and are safe while streaming and downloading content.
The Nighthawk App allows you to set up this router in minutes and get more out of your WiFi including amazing features such as remote access to your network, internet speed test, internet pausing, and more.
Who It’s For
The Netgear RAX50 is suitable for individuals who are looking for a high-performing router that offers fast speeds and comes with great features.
Specs
- Speed: 4 Gbps
- Range: up to 2500 sq. ft, 25 devices
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ax
- Ports: 4 Ethernet and 1 USB
- Warranty: 90 days Support
Pros
- Simultaneous streaming at fast speeds.
- Reliable and high-performing speeds.
- Great internet security.
- Easy setup and management.
- Excellent range.
Cons
- Need to pay for advanced security features.
3. Linksys Hydra 6 (Budget Friendly)
Design
The Linksys Hydra 6 provides you with WiFi 6 speeds using an intelligent mesh at an affordable price.
This ensures that you have the fastest connection in everything that you do from streaming your favourite content to the next-level gaming without any lags.
This dual-band router allows you to experience rock-solid connectivity as it comes with the Qualcomm chipset to offer the ultimate mesh WiFi 6 for wire-like low latency, stable streaming, and extremely fast performance.
Performance
The Linksys Hydra 6 is powered by intelligent mesh technology which dynamically maximizes speed and removes dead zones in your home as you can easily expand your WiFi network’s range by adding nodes that keep your connection strong every time.
From our experience, the Hydra 6 can support up to 2000 sq. ft. and 25 plus devices as it simultaneously receives and sends several streams of data which provide up to four times the WiFi capacity for handling more smart home and gaming devices.
The free Linksys app allows you to set up this router in minutes as well as seamlessly manage the mesh network system. The app can also be used to prioritize or view devices that are consuming more data from anywhere.
The parental controls, software updates, and separate guest access protect your home and helps you keep the network secure, safe, and up to date.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for an affordable router that can create a mesh system in your home to eliminate dead zones and reduce latency, the Linksys Hydra 6 is for you.
Specs
- Speed 3 Gbps
- Range: 2000 sq. ft and 20 plus devices
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11n
- Ports: 5 Ethernet, 1 USB
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Easy to set up using the Linksys app.
- Extremely fast performance.
- Great security for your network.
- Can connect to more devices.
- Intelligent mesh system for removing dead zones.
Cons
- Phone installation is a bit hard.
4. ASUS RT-AX82U (For Gaming)
Design
The ASUS RT-AX82U is a dual-band gaming router that comes with great features including Mobile Game Mode, WiFi 6 802.11ax, Lifetime Free Internet Security, ASUS AURA RGB, Gear Accelerator, Mesh WiFi Support, Adaptive QoS, Gaming port, and Port Forwarding.
The RT-AX82U offers you all the benefits of WiFi 6 technology and works well with all your current devices. This latest WiFi technology ensures that you have a longer range, faster speeds, and lower latency when using the internet.
Performance
The ASUS RT-AX82U has a port dedicated to gaming which ensures that any connected wired device is automatically prioritized.
You do not need any complex configuration as you just connect your gaming console or PC to the port and enjoy stable and fast connections.
The Adaptive Quality of Standard allows you to prioritize network traffic and applications such as gaming, web surfing, or streaming video which keeps your network running smoothly. It is the best ally for providing low-latency WiFi throughout your home.
This router supports the ASUS AiMesh which is a mesh networking technology that uses several ASUS routers to create a whole-home network.
From our tests, it was easy to set this up as it has easy central control and seamless roaming which eliminated dead zones.
The network security of your home is important when you have several connected devices, especially when these devices do not have the antivirus capabilities like IoT devices.
Fortunately, the RT-AX82U comes with the lifetime free AiProtetcion Pro which includes advanced Parental Controls and the latest WPA3 security protocol.
The AiProtection Pro protects your network from internet attacks, with regular and automatic updates.
The WPA3 is the latest WiFi security protocol that prevents threats from reaching your devices including those that cannot install antivirus like game consoles and smartphones.
The advanced parental controls feature content filters, schedule block time, kid-safe presets, and an internet activity dashboard.
The ASUS Router app allows you to easily manage the router as it has traffic analyzers, guest WiFi, and network diagnostics.
Additionally, you can use the app to monitor what is happening on your network and minimize latency and lag for mobile gaming with just one tap.
Who It’s For
The ASUS RT-AX82U is suitable for households with several users who are gamers and need fast and smooth internet speeds and less latency and lag during gaming.
Specs
- Speed: 5400 Mbps
- Range: Up to 2000 sq. ft, 30 plus devices
- Bands Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11a, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11n, 802.11ax
- Ports: 4 Ethernet
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Advanced security features.
- Has a dedicated gaming port.
- Eliminates dead zones.
- Allows you to prioritize traffic.
- Easy to set up and manage.
Cons
- Traffic is monitored by a third party.
5. TP-Link Deco X55 (Mesh WiFi)
Design
The TP-Link Deco X55 comes with WiFi 6 mesh technology which delivers up to 3000 Mbps and eliminates dead zones.
The three units work together to ensure that you have uninterrupted WiFi throughout your home from the backyard to the bedroom by providing coverage of up to 6500 sq. ft.
The Deco X55 is armed with AI-Driven Smart Mesh that provides smart WiFi that follows you anywhere you go without interruption as it automatically learns user behaviors, client quality, and your network environment.
Performance
The TP-Link Deco X55 comes with 9 ethernet ports in total as each unit has three to ensure that you have more wired connections.
For more stable speeds, the Deco X55 supports wired ethernet backhaul and any of the units can be used as a WiFi router.
Some of the features of the Deco X55 include Home Network Scanner, QoS, Parental Controls, Reports, and Homeshield Pro.
The Home Network Scanner detects security issues and potential threats in real-time. The QoS (Quality of Standard) allows you to assign your favorite devices to have top performance and faster connections.
The Parental Controls enable you to keep your family safe online by blocking inappropriate content and managing time online.
With Reports, you will gain full insights and statistics to help you know and manage your network better.
From our experience, it is easy to set up the Deco X55 with the Deco App. All you need to do is unbox the Deco, install the app, and follow the simple instructions on the screen.
The app will take care of the rest and get your network working in minutes.
Enjoy hands-free life by pairing the Deco X55 with Alexa and control your network with simple voice commands.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a mesh WiFi system that provides you with extensive coverage in your home so that you can experience an uninterrupted internet connection, the TP-Link Deco X55 is for you.
Specs
- Speed: 3000 Mbps
- Range: up to 6500 sq. ft
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g
- Ports: 3 Ethernet Ports per unit
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Whole-home coverage.
- AI-driven smart mesh system.
- More ethernet ports for wired connections.
- Smart parental controls.
- You can get insights about how you are using your data.
Cons
- Slow speeds when connected to gaming consoles.
6. Synology RT2600ac (Best Security Features)
Design
The Synology RT2600ac is powered by a 1.7 GHz dual-core processor that ensures your devices have fast and uncompromising performance.
For a great transition between maximum speed and range, this router comes with Smart Connect.
The RT2600ac has powerful tools that help you to monitor traffic and prioritize bandwidth for certain devices such as the gaming console or smart TV so that they get enough speed to prevent them from stuttering or lagging while in use.
The double WNA ensures that you have load balancing and failover support.
Performance
The Synology RT2600ac protects your network by blocking harmful sites and inappropriate content, especially for your children.
Additionally, you can set up profiles that are customized to meet the specific needs of your family members or employees.
The tools that make the RT2600ac great for providing security to your home and network include intrusion prevention, denial-of-service protection, and firewall management.
The router undergoes regular updates to ensure that there is constant protection from the latest threats and attacks.
The VPN server is comprehensive to offer secure access, smooth connections, and an easy set-up so that you easily create a virtual office for your employees who are working from home and also adapt to their flexible and different work styles and schedules.
The RT2600ac can also be used as a private cloud server and a centralized multimedia hub enables you to use the DNLA home devices to browse content and play as well as synchronize and share files across the devices and your family members.
Who It’s For
The Synology RT2600ac is a great router that provides security for homes and small offices as it comes with advanced security features, fast internet speed, and intelligent management tools.
Specs
- Speed: 53 Gbps
- Range 2,000 sq. ft
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ac
- Ports: 4
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros
- Different devices can use a single transmission.
- Parental controls block inappropriate content.
- Top performance and faster connections.
- Great security features.
Cons
- Unstable when there is more traffic.
7. TP-Link Archer AX73 (Best For CenturyLink 1 Gig)
Design
The TP-Link Archer AX73 is equipped with features such as parental controls, Quality of Service, MI-MIMO, Beamforming, and OFDMA to ensure that you can have reliable and faster internet on all your devices when they are all connected to the network at the same time.
The Archer AX73 features the latest WiFi 6 technology which upgrades your home to new levels of performance and speed.
It can deliver speeds of up to 5400 Mbps which is enough for your entire family to download, stream, and game simultaneously. The vents on this device ensure that it is protected from overheating.
Performance
The OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies maximize the average throughput of the Archer AX73 as they enable you to connect several devices to the network at the same time.
The OFDMA utilizes multiple streams while the MU-MIMO utilizes one stream to enhance the efficiency of your network.
When you are streaming, gaming, downloading, or doing any other online activity, your network is exposed to internet security threats and issues.
However, there is no need to worry as the Archer AX73 has a network scanner that protects the network and devices from cyberattacks. Also, the WPA3 security protocol provides stronger WiFi protection and encryption from internet attacks.
During our tests, the Quality-of-Service feature enabled us to focus enough bandwidth on devices that performed data-intensive tasks so that they could achieve faster connections and perform better.
The 4T4R structures, Beamforming, 6 antennas, and high-power FEM combine to concentrate signal strengths to devices and adapt the WiFi coverage to fit your home allowing you to enjoy stable internet connections throughout your home.
The ethernet ports allow you to have a wired connection to your printers, computers, consoles, and more while the USB port enables you to create private cloud storage for storing files and sharing media across your devices.
Parental control is a tool for monitoring the content that your children are watching and downloading from the internet which helps you to ensure that the content is appropriate and safe for their age.
Additionally, they will develop healthy internet habits as you can restrict the time they are spending on the internet.
The Tether App is very intuitive and you can use it to easily set up the Archer AX73.
Who It’s For
The TP-Link Archer AX73 is for users who live in large homes, have several devices, and need faster speeds for a smooth and stable internet connection.
Specs
- Speed: Up to 5400 Mbps
- Range: 2,500 sq. ft
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocols: 11n, 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11ac, 802.11g
- Ports: 5 Ethernet ports, 1 USB
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- It is easy to set up.
- Fast and smart roaming services.
- Has great parental controls.
- Wider range and great coverage.
- Allows for simultaneous use of the internet.
Cons
- Issues with the 2.4 GHz.
- Updating the firmware is needed for faster speeds.
Things To Consider When Choosing A CenturyLink Compatible Router
Speed Support
Your wireless router does not create faster internet speeds; instead, it utilizes the speeds provided directly by CenturyLink network.
The router cannot exceed the upload or download speed you pay for from your internet service provider.
Therefore, you must first know your current WiFi speed from your CenturyLink plan and buy a router that can handle that speed.
For optimal performance, it is recommended to choose a router that can handle higher speeds than your current plan, in case you decide to upgrade in the future.
For example, if you are on a CenturyLink gigabit plan but opt for a router with a capacity of only 300 Mbps, your internet speed will be limited to 300 Mbps, even though your plan offers higher speeds.
So, ensure you choose a compatible router to fully utilize your CenturyLink subscription.
WirelessRange & Coverage
If your home or workplace measures 2,000 sq ft and the router you’ve selected only covers 1,500 sq ft, it could lead to WiFi dead zones.
To avoid this, opt for a router with a larger wireless coverage area than your home’s size. For optimal WiFi coverage, position the router centrally, ensuring 360-degree coverage, which is especially crucial in larger residences.
To address dead zones and extend the WiFi signal in broader spaces, consider using WiFi extenders. These small devices can be strategically placed to amplify the signal and enhance coverage.
Investing in a router with a generous WiFi range is highly recommended to minimize unexpected connectivity issues.
Although such routers may have a higher initial cost, they offer long-term benefits by eliminating the need for additional spending on extenders.
By selecting a robust router from the beginning, you can effectively tackle and prevent potential connectivity problems, saving money that would otherwise be spent on extenders over time, making it a smart investment.
CenturyLink Compatibility
Ensuring compatibility between your router and CenturyLink is crucial to maximize internet speed and avoid interruptions or delays in service. Incompatible routers may result in slow internet and service disruptions.
To prevent this, verify your router’s compatibility with CenturyLink by checking their website or contacting them for a list of approved routers.
This information will help you make an informed decision when selecting a router that suits your needs.
Moreover, the router manual may also include a list of compatible internet service providers. By cross-referencing this list with CenturyLink’s compatibility information, you can be confident in your choice.
Remember, investing time in confirming router compatibility with your ISP can save you from potential connectivity issues and ensure a seamless internet experience.
Mesh System vs Traditional WiFi Routers
As the cost of whole-mesh routers continues to decline, homeowners with larger residences should seriously consider adopting this technology to ensure reliable and seamless WiFi coverage.
Even in compact spaces, various factors, including home layout and construction materials, can cause signal drops, dead zones, and slower speeds.
Mesh networks present an effective solution to tackle these issues by extending WiFi coverage through strategically placed additional nodes (satellites) throughout the house.
They can even expand coverage to areas like garages or work sheds, offering a seamless experience across the entire property.
Typically, traditional routers are placed in one room, resulting in a coverage that is weak as signals struggle to penetrate walls and reach devices in other rooms.
Mesh networks overcome this limitation by deploying nodes throughout the home, reinforcing and extending coverage for a reliable and consistent connection.
Whether you have a larger home or face connectivity challenges due to your home’s layout, buying a mesh network can significantly enhance the WiFi range, remove dead zones, and resolve issues such as latency and slower speeds.
By embracing this technology, homeowners can relish a more robust and dependable wireless network throughout their living space, providing a smooth online experience for all connected devices.
Number Of Connected Devices & Online Activities
In our interconnected world, numerous non-mobile tech gadgets, such as smart TVs, security cameras, and laptops, rely on WiFi connectivity.
To ensure smooth operation, calculate the number of devices in your household and select a router capable of handling 10-20% more.
When multiple devices or online activities overload the WiFi network simultaneously, unnecessary traffic can impact the quality of content, leading to challenges when streaming high-resolution videos, for instance.
To avoid such issues, invest in a router that can efficiently support the number of devices in your home and offers versatility to work in both office and home settings.
By doing so, you can enjoy uninterrupted and reliable connectivity for all your connected devices, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable online experience.
The Difference Between CenturyLink Fiber And CenturyLink DSL
CenturyLink DSL (digital subscriber line) employs a pair of copper wires in your telephone lines to facilitate data transfer and internet connection.
Since DSL operates at a different frequency than your voice service, it won’t interfere with your home phone usage, allowing simultaneous phone and internet usage.
DSL internet typically offers download speeds ranging from 5 to 35 Mbps and upload speeds from 1 to 10 Mbps. However, in certain areas, DSL speeds can reach up to 100 Mbps.
DSL is suitable for basic activities like web browsing and email, which generally require speeds of 1 Mbps per device.
In contrast, CenturyLink Fiber Internet utilizes fiber-optic cables composed of thin glass strands. These cables transmit data through light at incredibly high speeds, resulting in a lightning-fast and a dependable network.
Such a network enables multiple users and devices to stream, game, or browse simultaneously without experiencing lag or lost connections.
For households with multiple users and numerous devices, fiber optic internet proves to be the superior choice. Fiber offers blazingly fast symmetrical download and upload speeds ranging from 250 to 1,000 Mbps.
As the technology behind fiber optics continues to advance, these impressive speeds are expected to become even faster.
FAQs
Can I Use A Third-Party Router With CenturyLink?
Any third-party routers should work with CenturyLink as they don’t have compatibility constraints like modems.
Although using your router incurs a higher upfront cost, it saves money in the long term as you avoid monthly rental fees from the ISP.
How Do I set up My Own Router?
The following are the simple steps to set up your router:
- Plug your router into the power source.
- Connect the router to a modem using an ethernet cable.
- Connect the router to a computer.
- Open the administration console of the router on a web browser on your computer.
- Log in to the router using the username and password.
- Enter internet connection information such as the PPPoE for DSL or the IP address if you have it.
- Update the router’s MAC address.
- Change the network’s name also known as the SSID.
- Verify the local network connection by checking if your computer has received a valid IP address.
- Connect your devices to the network.
How Do I Know If My Router Is Compatible With CenturyLink Fiber?
All routers can work with Fiber technology, but it’s essential to verify that the router speed aligns with your Internet plan and vice versa.
For instance, if your plan offers up to 200 Mbps download speeds, ensure the devices you consider support at least 200 Mbps speeds.
Opting for a router with slower speeds would mean not fully utilizing the internet service you pay for.
How Much Does CenturyLink Charge For A Gateway Rental?
For both internet-only subscribers and customers with bundles comprising local phone, long-distance, and internet services, CenturyLink imposes a $15 monthly fee for leasing a Gateway from them.
Final Words
Hopefully, the above guide helps you make a viable decision on which router to get for your CenturyLink subscription.
However, if you are stuck and finding it difficult to decide, here is our top choice for the best router for CenturyLink Fiber:
The ASUS RT-AX3000 features WiFi 6 (802.11ax) which is the latest technology and next-generation standard that is 2.7 times faster than WiFi 5.
Also, the 802.11ax wireless protocol provides future-proof technologies, higher network efficiency, greater coverage, improved battery life, and faster WiFi speeds for your connected devices.
Do not settle for the cheapest option if you need a dependable router for CenturyLink.
It is important that you spend the extra money on a router with future-proof features and high-speed internet plans to achieve stable and smooth connections.
