Linksys EA4500 N900 Wi-Fi Router

Linksys EA4500 N900 Wi-Fi Router — image 1
82%
18%
88%
Wi-Fi Performance
91%
Setup and Installation
85%
App Experience (Smart Wi-Fi)
89%
Range (2.4GHz Band)
70%
Range (5GHz Band)
80%
Build Quality
82%
Parental Controls
78%
Guest Network Functionality
74%
USB Storage Feature (NAS)
90%
Ethernet Performance
86%
Price to Value Ratio
66%
Firmware Stability
More

Overview

The Linksys EA4500 N900 Wi-Fi Router is designed to offer high-speed, reliable internet connectivity for home networks. With dual-band support and speeds up to 450+450Mbps, this router is capable of handling multiple devices simultaneously. This Wi-Fi router features a 3x3 antenna array for improved coverage and faster speeds. It also includes a Smart Wi-Fi app that allows you to manage your network remotely. Additionally, the device comes with four Gigabit Ethernet ports and a USB port for connecting external storage devices, making it a versatile choice for modern homes.

Features & Benefits

This dual-band router offers simultaneous 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, optimizing your network for both performance and reduced interference. The inclusion of four Gigabit Ethernet ports ensures that wired devices can take advantage of the fastest possible connections. Additionally, the USB storage support enables you to turn external drives into network-attached storage (NAS), allowing for convenient file sharing across your home network. With robust parental controls and a guest network feature, the EA4500 ensures both security and privacy for all users.

Best For

This Wi-Fi router is ideal for home users who need reliable and fast internet access for multiple devices. Families will particularly appreciate the built-in parental controls and the option to create a secure guest network for visitors. The router is perfect for those who want to manage their network remotely via the Smart Wi-Fi app, and it is also an excellent choice for people who enjoy streaming services or need to share large files over the network. Its high-speed capabilities make it a solid choice for streaming and gaming.

User Feedback

User reviews of the Linksys EA4500 generally praise its easy setup and stable performance. Many users have highlighted the router’s ability to handle multiple devices without a noticeable drop in speed. However, some customers have reported issues with range, especially on the 5GHz band, which may not reach as far as the 2.4GHz band. A few have also mentioned occasional firmware glitches, but the Smart Wi-Fi app has received positive feedback for its ease of use and control over network settings. Overall, it remains a popular choice among those seeking a dependable home router.

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Pros

  • This Wi-Fi router offers reliable, high-speed performance with speeds up to 450+450Mbps, perfect for households with multiple users.
  • The 3x3 MIMO antenna setup enhances wireless coverage and speeds, ensuring stable connections even in larger rooms.
  • Gigabit Ethernet ports provide fast and stable wired connections, ideal for gaming or streaming with minimal lag.
  • The Smart Wi-Fi app allows users to easily manage their network remotely, offering convenience for tech-savvy individuals.
  • With USB storage support, this router turns external drives into a network-attached storage (NAS) solution for shared files.
  • Parental controls and a separate guest network provide enhanced security and privacy for families and visitors.

Cons

  • Some users report limited 5GHz range, which may affect performance in larger homes or multi-story buildings.
  • The router occasionally experiences firmware glitches, which may cause temporary connectivity issues.
  • While easy to set up, some users find the initial configuration process a bit confusing if they are not familiar with networking.
  • The router may not perform as well in densely populated areas where many other Wi-Fi networks compete for bandwidth.
  • Users with very high-speed internet plans may find that this device doesn't fully maximize their connection potential.
  • A few buyers noted that the router can get quite warm under heavy use, which could raise concerns about long-term durability.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews across various platforms and languages, we present the aggregated ratings for the Linksys EA4500 N900 Wi-Fi Router. Our review process filtered out any spam, bot, incentivized, duplicated, or off-topic feedback, ensuring only authentic, high-quality insights informed the scores. Both the strengths and pain points of this device are reflected in the ratings, providing a balanced overview of what buyers can expect from this router across different use cases and environments.

Wi-Fi Performance
88%
Users are generally impressed with the dual-band performance, especially in terms of stable speeds and seamless switching between 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Many mention that this router provides solid coverage and is ideal for households with multiple devices needing reliable, fast internet.
However, some buyers report occasional drops in speed on the 5GHz band, particularly at longer distances. A few users have mentioned that, while good overall, it does not fully meet the needs of homes with larger spaces or dense walls.
Setup and Installation
91%
The setup process is quick and intuitive, with most users praising the step-by-step instructions provided in the manual and the Smart Wi-Fi app. Many appreciate the ease of connecting their devices and getting the network up and running without issues.
A few users did report some minor issues during the initial setup, especially with advanced configurations or integrating other devices. Some also pointed out that the app could use a more streamlined interface for easier navigation.
App Experience (Smart Wi-Fi)
85%
The Smart Wi-Fi app offers great functionality for remote management, allowing users to control network settings and monitor usage. Many appreciate the ability to easily manage the router from anywhere, which is especially useful for parents and home users.
However, some users experienced occasional glitches or slow responsiveness from the app. A few reviewers noted that some features are a bit too basic or not as intuitive as they would like, especially for more tech-savvy users.
Range (2.4GHz Band)
89%
The 2.4GHz band performs well in terms of coverage and stability, even in larger homes. Several users mentioned that it consistently offers a solid connection across a range of devices, making it a reliable option for everyday use.
That said, a small number of users found the range to be lacking when used in larger homes or buildings with multiple floors. Some noted that performance drops noticeably as you move farther from the router.
Range (5GHz Band)
70%
30%
While the 5GHz band provides fast speeds in ideal conditions, many users appreciate its ability to deliver faster downloads and smoother streaming compared to the 2.4GHz band.
On the downside, the 5GHz band has been the source of some complaints, with several users reporting reduced range and weak signal strength when moving further from the router. This makes it less effective in larger or multi-story homes.
Build Quality
80%
20%
The build quality of this router is solid, with a sturdy design that gives users confidence in its durability. Many mention the relatively compact size, making it suitable for most home environments without taking up too much space.
However, a few users felt that the router's plastic body felt a bit cheap, especially when compared to other more premium options. Additionally, some noted that it could be prone to heating up during heavy usage.
Parental Controls
82%
18%
The parental controls are well-received, with users enjoying the flexibility to block websites, set time limits, and manage device access. This makes it a great option for families with children.
Some users felt the parental controls could be more advanced, mentioning a lack of customizable filtering options or more in-depth management features. A few also found the interface to be a bit cumbersome.
Guest Network Functionality
78%
22%
The ability to create a separate guest network is appreciated by users who want to keep their main network secure. Many found it easy to set up and felt it added an extra layer of security when hosting guests.
However, a handful of users found the guest network feature somewhat limited. They mentioned that the setup process was slightly unintuitive or that the network speeds were slower than expected for guests.
USB Storage Feature (NAS)
74%
26%
Several users appreciate the USB storage feature, which allows them to use the router as a network-attached storage (NAS) device. This feature is particularly useful for accessing and sharing files across devices in a home network.
Despite the positive feedback, some users had issues with speed and reliability when using the USB storage feature. A few reported that it was slow to access files, especially when multiple devices were connected.
Ethernet Performance
90%
The Gigabit Ethernet ports deliver fast, stable wired connections, which is ideal for users who rely on high-speed internet for activities like gaming, video streaming, or heavy downloads. Many found this feature to be one of the router's strongest points.
However, some users wished there were more Ethernet ports available, as they felt limited by the number of connections. Additionally, a few users reported occasional connectivity drops with certain devices when plugged into the Ethernet ports.
Price to Value Ratio
86%
Users generally feel that this router offers excellent value for its price. With features like dual-band Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, and Smart Wi-Fi management, many believe it provides solid performance at a reasonable cost.
That said, some buyers feel that the router could have offered better performance on the 5GHz band and a few additional advanced features for the price. A few also felt that competing routers offered slightly more for a similar price.
Firmware Stability
66%
34%
A small group of users mentioned that the router's firmware updates helped improve performance, making it more stable over time. A few reported fewer issues after updating to the latest version.
However, firmware stability was a common pain point for many users, with several reporting frequent bugs, glitches, and the occasional need to reboot the router. Some also mentioned that updates were not always timely or straightforward.

Suitable for:

The Linksys EA4500 N900 Wi-Fi Router is well-suited for home users who need reliable and fast internet for multiple devices. It excels in providing stable Wi-Fi connections with its dual-band support (2.4GHz and 5GHz), making it ideal for families who frequently stream videos, play games, or share large files over the network. The robust Smart Wi-Fi app allows remote management, which is perfect for users who prefer to have control of their network from anywhere. This device is also a great option for individuals looking for secure browsing with features like parental controls and a guest network, offering privacy and control in homes with children or visitors.

Not suitable for:

However, the Linksys EA4500 N900 Wi-Fi Router may not be the best choice for users with larger homes or those who require extended 5GHz range. While it performs well in smaller to medium-sized spaces, users in larger homes or multi-story buildings may experience weaker 5GHz signals at longer distances. Additionally, some users report occasional firmware glitches, which can be frustrating for those who expect seamless, long-term performance. If you're looking for a router with cutting-edge, advanced features or top-tier performance on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, this device may not fully meet your expectations.

Specifications

  • Wi-Fi Standard: Supports the 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard, ensuring high-speed wireless connectivity.
  • Wireless Speed: Offers up to 450Mbps on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for a total combined speed of 900Mbps.
  • Dual-Band: Operates simultaneously on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands to minimize interference and improve network performance.
  • Antennas: Equipped with 3x3 MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antennas to improve coverage and overall Wi-Fi performance.
  • Ethernet Ports: Includes 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for faster wired connections, supporting up to 1Gbps speeds.
  • USB Port: Features a USB port that allows external storage devices to be connected for network-attached storage (NAS) functionality.
  • Smart Wi-Fi App: Supports a Smart Wi-Fi app for easy remote network management, device prioritization, and monitoring.
  • Guest Network: Includes an option for creating a separate guest network to keep your main network secure.
  • Parental Controls: Offers built-in parental controls to manage and limit internet access for specific devices.
  • Security: Uses WPA2 encryption to secure your wireless network and protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.
  • USB Storage Support: Enables the connection of USB storage devices to share files across the network using the router's built-in NAS functionality.
  • Wi-Fi Coverage: Delivers reliable wireless coverage throughout medium to large homes, thanks to its dual-band configuration and MIMO antennas.
  • Setup: Easy to set up using either the web-based interface or the Smart Wi-Fi app for quick configuration.
  • Firmware Updates: Supports automatic firmware updates to ensure the router stays secure and performs optimally.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most broadband modems and service providers, including cable, DSL, and fiber connections.

FAQ

The setup for this Wi-Fi router is simple and can be done via the browser interface or through the Smart Wi-Fi app. After connecting the router to your modem, just follow the on-screen instructions to complete the configuration. The app also allows you to manage settings remotely, which can be handy for adjusting network preferences on the go.

The Linksys EA4500 is a dual-band router that operates on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. This allows for more stable and faster connections by reducing interference. The 2.4GHz band is ideal for basic tasks like browsing, while the 5GHz band offers faster speeds for activities like gaming and HD streaming.

The USB port on the router allows you to connect an external hard drive or flash drive. Once connected, you can turn it into network-attached storage (NAS), enabling you to share files and media across your network. You can easily manage and access files from multiple devices connected to the router.

Some users have reported limited range on the 5GHz band. To improve coverage, try placing the router in a more central location away from walls and obstructions. Additionally, using the 2.4GHz band might provide better range in larger or multi-story homes.

Yes, the Linksys EA4500 features a Smart Wi-Fi app that allows you to manage your network remotely. You can change settings, monitor devices, and even prioritize bandwidth for certain devices, all from your smartphone or tablet.

This router is compatible with most broadband providers and works with cable, fiber, or DSL connections. It supports standard WAN ports and works with most modems. However, be sure to confirm that your modem is compatible with 802.11ac routers for the best experience.

The Linksys EA4500 includes WPA2 encryption for secure wireless connections, along with built-in parental controls and a guest network option. These features help to keep your main network safe while offering secure access to guests.

The router can handle multiple devices simultaneously without significant drops in performance. With its dual-band functionality and 3x3 MIMO antennas, it offers stable connectivity even when several devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs, are connected at the same time.

Some users have reported occasional firmware glitches. If you experience these issues, try rebooting the router or checking for firmware updates in the router settings. Updating to the latest firmware often resolves these problems.

The parental control feature allows you to block websites, limit internet access for certain devices, and set usage schedules. This is ideal for families with children or for anyone who wants to restrict access to certain content or ensure safe browsing.