centurylink-compatible-routers-review

Top 10 CenturyLink Compatible Routers to Buy in 2023

Most CenturyLink subscribers tend to rent a router from them as it seems like the easy way. But is it the wisest choice you can make?

A rented router will cost you around 100-150 bucks a year. And with this amount of money, you can buy your own Wi-Fi system that comes with tons of advanced features. Moreover, you will get better control over your network system.

So, why are you spending on something every month which is not even yours?

Don’t worry; we’ve got your back! In this article, we’ve reviewed the best Centurylink compatible routers so that you can pick one to enjoy a seamless internet connection!

Do you want to find out more? Keep on reading!

Benefits of Having CenturyLink Compatible Routers

Getting your own CenturyLink router comes with tons of benefits. If you get to know about them, you will convince yourself to buy one immediately.

Now let’s get to know about the perks of installing your own Wi-Fi system so you can make the right decision.

Better Wi-Fi Connection

If you get your own router, you will have better area coverage and more control over the network management. Moreover, there are many Wi-Fi systems with tons of advanced features that will allow you to enjoy a seamless internet connection.

Your rental router may not be an advanced one, and so you might be missing a lot of opportunities here. Thus getting your own Wi-Fi seems like an excellent idea.

Save Money Every Month

There is absolutely no reason behind spending a pretty hefty amount of money on a router when you can buy the latest technology with that budget.

If you buy a versatile one, you can use it even after switching your ISP. So it will be a fantastic investment, to be honest.

Advanced Security

The rental Wi-Fi system doesn’t know what kind of security you need for your house or workspace. If you have kids, you will need superb parental control to keep them safe from internet bullies. And setting up guest Wi-Fi access will help you protect your information from acquaintances.

Hence, you can set up the most excellent security system if you get your own router, and it’s the wisest choice you can pick.

Top 10 CenturyLink Compatible Routers

Here is our list of the top ten routers that are compatible with your CenturyLink connection. We’ve reviewed these Wi-Fi systems by explaining every feature elaborately to give you a better idea about these products.

So let’s dive into these reviews right away!

1. Linksys MR9600 Mesh Wi-Fi Router

The first router on our list is Linksys that provides outstanding performance and allows you to enjoy heavy-duty streaming without any trouble. It comes with tons of user-friendly features that will help you to enjoy your CenturyLink connection to the fullest.

This MR9600 mesh Wi-Fi system is equipped with all the advanced features you need for a seamless network connection. It is a Dual-Band router that will allow you to enjoy interruption-free video streaming and gaming sessions; hence you can enjoy your leisure flawlessly.

As this system is powered by advanced mesh technology, it enhances the internet speed around the house. Moreover, it also eliminates the dead spots in your home; thus, you can use the internet anywhere from the basement to the washroom.

You will get 3000 square feet coverage, which is perfect for a regular size home. Also, you can install it in your workspace as it supports up to 40 devices simultaneously.

This Wi-Fi system allows you to enjoy up to 6Gbps internet speed. Hence you can enjoy 4K/8K streaming anytime you want. Moreover, it comes with the Linksys app; and using it, you can install the whole system just in minutes.

You don’t have to worry about protecting your devices and information from cyber threats anymore, as this router has a WPA2-PSK security protocol. It also supports MU-MIMO that allows you to enjoy all the benefits of your CenturyLink package.

This wireless network system features four 1Gb Ethernet ports, two USB ports, so you can connect all your wired devices to it for better speed and performance. And the Beamforming technology enhances the performance of your devices, which is a cherry on the top!

You will also get a built-in VPN and the chance to set up guest Wi-Fi access for better security. Though it doesn’t have any anti-malware system, you are well-protected from cyber threats to a great extend.

Pros

  • Equipped with advanced features
  • It comes with 3000 sq feet coverage and can be extended
  • Offers excellent security protocol
  • Allows heavy-duty streaming
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • It’s more on the expensive side

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2. NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 Smart Wi-Fi Router (R8000)

We can’t really go on with our discussion about top routers without mentioning one by Netgear. This NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 smart Wi-Fi system is one of the most excellent ones in the market that will enhance your CenturyLink package’s performance.

Now, this router is a high-performance one that offers you all the advanced features you can expect from a wireless network system. It is designed with six superior antennas and comes with a stunning outlook, which adds some bonus points to its score!

As this Wi-Fi system is Tri-Band, you will always have a seamless internet connection. You can stream all the 8K videos all day long, and the connection will always be stable no matter what. Additionally, it’s easy to install and operate, which is a relief!

It comes with four 1 gigabit Ethernet ports that allow you to connect all your streaming and gaming devices directly to the networking system. In this way, you can go on with your gaming sessions with minimum lag, which is a dream come true!

Moreover, this router is designed with both 2.0 and 3.0 USB ports so you can create cloud storage or plug in your printers. It delivers up to 3200 megabits per second and covers 3500 sq feet area; thus, you can enjoy a perfect networking system all the time!

If you live in a house full of kids, you will love this Wi-Fi system as it offers the most excellent parental control. You can filter websites, pause internet access, and monitor the browsing history of specific devices to protect your family from cyber nasty.

This system supports WPA2 security protocol and allows you to set up guest Wi-Fi access for better safety. You can also get advanced protection such as anti-malware scanning if you are willing to pay an additional monthly charge. However, the first month is free; hence, you can try to make a confident decision.

Pros

  • Comes with advanced security features
  • Designed with Ethernet and USB ports
  • Allows you to enjoy super-fast internet speed
  • Covers up to 3500 sq feet
  • Offers excellent parental control management

Cons

  • It is a pretty large router

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3. TP-Link AC1900 Smart Wi-Fi Router (Archer A9)

If you are looking for an affordable router with superior functionality, you can go with this one for an optimal experience. The TP-Link Archer A9 is one of the most advanced Wi-Fi systems out there that you can get for your home.

This dual-band wireless network system allows you to have a seamless internet connection all day long. It comes with both Ethernet and USB ports; thus, you can connect your wired devices for interruption-free internet access.

As it is designed with three external antennas, you will get excellent coverage in your house. Moreover, the Beamforming technology enhances the Wi-Fi range, so now you can access the internet sitting in any corner of your home.

This system is loaded with advanced technology such as MU-MIMO to ensure the perfect internet connection for you. It also takes Alexa voice control commands, so it’s pretty easy to use.

The TP-Link Tether app allows you to install the whole system in few easy steps, and you can manage your router remotely using it. How amazing is that?

If you are worried about the security system and always want to stay one step ahead, this Wi-Fi will solve it. It has WPS, WPA2-PSK protocols to protect you from internet threats. You will have excellent parental control and the ease of setting up guest Wi-Fi access for ensuring your information’s safety.

This Wi-Fi comes with a Smart Connect technology that optimizes your device’s connection and switches it to the fastest available band. You will get up to 1300 Mbps for the 5Ghz band and 600 Mbps for the 2.4 GHz band. So it will be perfect for your CenturyLink package without any complications.

Pros

  • Designed with advanced features
  • Ensures enhances network coverage
  • Easy to install
  • Allows heavy-duty streaming
  • It comes within an affordable price range

Cons

  • It doesn’t come with a 3.0 USB port

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4. MOTOROLA MD1600 Modem + Wi-Fi AC1600 Gigabit Router

If you are looking for a CenturyLink compatible modem-router combo, you can keep this one by MOTOROLA in your wishlist. It doesn’t come with a crazy price tag and offers you fantastic service for a long time.

This MD1600 MOTOROLA modem has a powerful built-in router that will cover both your wired and wireless internet requirements. It is designed with four Gigabit Ethernet ports; hence you can connect your gaming consoles and streaming devices to it for the fastest internet speed.

As it has both WPA/WPA2 security protocols, your information and devices will be well-protected all the time. You will also get VPN, Firewall, and guest Wi-Fi access for better safety management.

This system delivers up to 100 Megabits speed per second so that you will get the most out of your CenturyLink package without any trouble. If you want a router-modem combo for heavy-duty streaming, why don’t you start with this one?

Besides, this modem comes with a compact design; hence you can keep it anywhere in your house. You can set up a gaming corner and keep it near your devices for better internet access. It ensures a stable internet connection, which is quite impressive.

Pros

  • Allows heavy-duty streaming
  • Ensures seamless Wi-Fi connection
  • It comes with a sleek outlook
  • Easy to install
  • Offers excellent security protocols

Cons

  • Only works with some selected IPS

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5. Zyxel C1100Z VDSL2 Wireless Gateway CenturyLink

This wireless system by Zyxel is an excellent CenturyLink Compatible router-modem combo that you can take a look at. As it is affordable and highly functional, it has made our list.

The C1100Z VDSL2 modem comes with a built-in router that works perfectly for a large space. It may look like a mid-range Wi-Fi system, but it’s capable of providing pretty neat coverage.

Moreover, the high-performance antennas make sure that the network signal is stable all the time.

Additionally, this Wi-Fi is easy to install, so you don’t have to be a tech genius to set up this system yourself. And you will get internet speed up to 300Mbps depending on your CenturyLink package.

It offers IPv6, so your network will be well-protected from cyber threats. And you will also get WPA2, APA, and WEP Security protocol for better safety management of your information and devices.

If you are into gaming, you are going to love this versatile Wi-Fi system. It ensures a stable internet connection; thus, you can play online games without annoying interruptions. And the built-in VPN reduces the ping, which allows you to win your mission smoothly.

This system uses the latest VDSL2 technology; hence you can enjoy the fastest internet speed at the lowest price. Moreover, it is built with reliable hardware, so you don’t have to shop for another Wi-Fi in a very long time!

In addition to all, this modem can automatically configure the CenturyLink network setting, which is quite impressive. So if you want to go with a combo Wi-Fi system, you should keep this one on the top of your list.

Pros

  • High-performance Wi-Fi system
  • It comes within an affordable budget
  • Allows you to enjoy high-speed internet
  • Ensures stable network connection
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • It only uses the 802.11n wireless standard

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6. TP-Link Deco Mesh Wi-Fi System (Deco M5)

The mesh Wi-Fi system is one of the popular choices among the users as you can expand the range of the internet as far as you can. And this Deco M5 Mesh system by TP-Link will be an excellent choice for your CenturyLink package. Let’s have a look at its features and benefits.

It is a dual-band router that can efficiently ensure trouble-free network access throughout your house. You can get up to 5500 square feet coverage by setting up more mesh units. So no more dead spots in your home, and the connection will always be stable in any condition.

This mesh networking system is super easy to install. All you need is to plug in the router, download the Tp-Link Deco app and follow the instruction.

For the security of your house, you can subscribe to Tp-Link Homecare. It will allow you to have robust parental control, advanced anti-virus, and QoS. So your kids and devices will be safe from internet threats all the time.

This router also features advanced adaptive routing technology that picks the fastest path for every device and enhances its performance.

If you get the whole 3-pack mesh Wi-Fi system, you can connect up to 100 devices, which are more than enough for any home or workspace. It is also designed with six Gigabit ports; hence you can connect your streaming and gaming devices directly to the system for the fastest internet speed.

You will get WPA2 security protocols and guest Wi-Fi set up to keep your data protected. Moreover, you can filter websites, set internet usage limits for your kid’s device, which are quite necessary these days.

So if you are looking for a high-performance Wi-Fi system for your CenturyLink internet connection, you can take a look at this option for an outstanding experience.

Pros

  • Can cover up to 5500 square feet
  • Loaded with advanced features
  • Offers top-notch security protocols
  • Supports up to 100 devices
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • It tends to get warm as the heat vents are in the bottom

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7. NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR700 Wi-Fi Router

If you are into professional gaming and require a seamless network connection 24 hours, you need this high-functioning router by NETGEAR. This Nighthawk pro gaming XR700 Wi-Fi system offers super-fast internet speed and stabilizes the signal for a better experience.

It is a single-band router that allows you to have 1733 Mbps for 5 GHz and 800 Mbps speed for 2.4 GHz devices. This Wi-Fi system offers minimum network congestion so that you can enjoy a smooth streaming session in any condition. 

As the Wi-Fi is designed with a 1.7 GHz Quad-core processor, you will always have a consistent internet speed. Therefore, you can watch 8K/4K videos without any interruption. This powerful processor also enhances your wireless devices’ performance, which is one of the most remarkable qualities of this system.

What more, this router is designed with seven Gigabit ports that allow you to connect multiple wired devices directly to it. In this way, you can enjoy enhanced network connections and lag-free gaming sessions.

If you are thinking about playing a pro-level online game, this Wi-Fi system will be the most excellent one for you.  It allocates bandwidth by device and stabilizes the sudden lag spikes. Once you get hooked on this Wi-Fi, you won’t switch to another one in a long time.

The security protocol offered by this system is top-notch. You will have outstanding parental control, and the built-in VPN protects your cyber ID. So if you want to get the most excellent router to enjoy your CenturyLink package, you can consider getting this one.

Pros

  • Offers advanced features for avid gamers
  • Allows heavy-duty streaming
  • Ensures stable network connection
  • It comes with seven Ethernet and two USB ports
  • Keeps your information well-protected

Cons

  • It’s pricey

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8. Turris Omnia 2020 | Open Source Router

The Turris Omnia 2020 open-source router is a high-performance system that will make your CenturyLink connection more enjoyable than ever. It will please any user with its superior performance in a breath.

This router is equipped with an advanced dual-core processor.  You will always get a seamless internet connection in your home, thanks to this top-notch system.

It comes with a 2GB ram capacity to ensure a smooth and stable network connection. Moreover, this Wi-Fi system automatically updates its core system to stay familiar with the latest technology.

This networking system is pretty easy to install, and you can do it without anyone’s help. Additionally, it is equipped with default stock firmware that scans for threats and protects your devices from harm.

On top of everything, this router has MIMO technology and five Gigabit LAN ports that allow you to connect streaming and gaming devices to it.

Pros

  • Designed with a powerful processor
  • Automatically updates its core
  • Easy to install and use
  • Offers excellent security protocols
  • Allows you to have a stable internet connection

Cons

  • It doesn’t include MU-MIMO

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9. NETGEAR Nighthawk AX12 Router (RAX200)

Here is another router by NETGEAR that will help you get the most out of your CenturyLink package. This Nighthawk AX12 is built for heavy-duty internet surfing and offers a robust security protocol to protect your data.

It is a powerful tri-band Wi-Fi system that can cover up to 2500 square feet area. This WIFI 6 provides super-fast internet speed. Thus you can stream UHD videos and games without any hint of interruption.

The Nighthawk app makes the installation of this system pretty easy. All you need to do is download the router and follow the simple procedure in the app. You can also manage your network setting and monitor the speed via this app.

As this Wi-Fi system is loaded with advanced features, you will get the latest technology at your service if you get it. This router is equipped with MU-MIMO, OFDMA, Dynamic QoS, and smart connect to provide top-notch performance for the user.

It is also designed with four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports and one 2.5 Gigabit port. Additionally, there will be two USB ports; thus, you can connect all of your wired devices directly to the system.

The Beamforming technology of this Wi-Fi enhances the network coverage, so there will be no dead zones around the house. And you can also control it with Alexa Voice Commands; hence anyone can use it without any trouble.

If you are looking for a router that offers smart parental control, this is your jam! Now you can monitor browsing history and limit internet usage for a specific device. You will also get VPN, Firewall, WPA2/WPA3 security protocol to ensure better safety from internet threats.

As it boosts up to 10.8Gbps, you can get this Wi-Fi for a stable network connection in your place.

Pros

  • Equipped with advanced features
  • Offers robust security protocol
  • Easy to install and operate
  • It covers up to 2500 square feet
  • Allows you to enjoy the fastest internet speed

Cons

  • It doesn’t have a 2.0 USB port

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10. NETGEAR High-Speed Broadband DSL Modem (DM200-100NAS)

The last one on our list is the modem-router combo by NETGEAR. As you have already seen the manufacturer’s name, you know that this product is going to be delicious!

This CenturyLink compatible modem comes with a built-in router that you can keep anywhere in your house, thanks to its compact design. It also features Ethernet ports that allow you to connect your wired devices directly to the network system for better speed and performance.

The Smart Wizard technology makes the installation of this product pretty straightforward. Now you can just tap some options, and you are one with the whole procedure. It also allows you to update the firmware whenever needed.

With this wifi-modem system, you are going to get the fastest internet speed. You will also get top-grade security protocols to keep your information safe from internet threats.

If you are running on a tight budget but determined to get your router, you can go for this option without any doubt.

Pros

  • High-performance modem+router combo
  • Comes within an affordable price range
  • Easy to set up
  • Designed to be compact

Cons

  • Not suitable for a large area
  • Doesn’t offer any parental control

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What to Look for in a CenturyLink Compatible Router – Buying Guide

There are some factors you need to consider before getting a CenturyLink compatible router. Here are the things you need to keep in your mind to make a confident purchase.

Speed

You need to get a Wi-Fi system that offers the fastest internet speed. Though it mostly depends on your CenturyLink package, a router that ensures a quicker rate will help you get more out of it.

So always make sure your Wi-Fi system’s speed fits with your IPS package. Otherwise, you will never get your desired service.

Security

Internet threats are perilous and tricky these days. Thus, you will need a robust security protocol to protect your information and devices from any harm.

CenturyLink Compatible Routers

Moreover, if you live with kids, you need to look for efficient parental control features to filter risky websites to keep your family protected from cyber nasty.

Ports

Try to get a Wi-Fi system that is designed with multiple Ethernet and USB ports. In this way, you can connect all of your wired devices for a seamless and fastest internet connection.

Area Coverage

One of the most notable benefits of getting your router is the perfect area coverage. The rental ones don’t know your place’s size; thus, you will end up with plenty of dead zones around the house.

Therefore, make sure that your Wi-Fi is capable of covering every inch of your house so that you can have internet access everywhere. In this article, you will find some options that come with the Beamforming Technology to enhance the network coverage.

Durability

A reliable Wi-Fi system comes with pretty great price points. Hence, you need to check for the durability of your router to enjoy a long-lasting service.

Always check the hardware quality of the device. If the structure is flimsy, don’t go for it at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does a rental CenturyLink router cost?

If you rent a router from CenturyLink, it will cost up to 10-15$ every month, depending on the package.

2. What is the difference between a modem router and a Wi-Fi router?

A modem router can be used as both modem and router. By contrast, a Wi-Fi router acts as a mediator between a modem and wireless devices.

For versatility, you can go for a modem-router combo if you want.

3. Can I buy my Wi-Fi system to go with the CenturyLink package?

Yes, you can get your Wi-Fi system if it is compatible with the CenturyLink connection. In fact, getting your system is better than renting one as it provides more control over the network.

With your router, you can customize the setting according to your preference.

4. Why is my network so slow?

The slow internet speed may depend on various reasons. It can occur because of malware, weather, weak network signal, and your internet package. That’s why you need to get an advanced Wi-Fi system to solve these issues.

5. How do I install my router?

Every router comes with its unique installation system. If you don’t want to make things complicated, you can pick a router listed in this article as all of them are easy to install and operate.

In Conclusion

That wasn’t tough to get a good-quality Centurylink compatible router, was it? While durability and built-quality are pretty important, you need to see if your router can actually cover the area you’re residing in and how many devices it can connect to. These are the two most important things you need to take into account.

If you ask us, we think that the Linksys MR9600 Mesh Wi-Fi Router should blend in with your taste. At least when it comes to overall performance and budget, this should be perfect for you.

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