Introduction

The ASUS AC1700 Wireless Gigabit Router RT-ACRH17 is a robust and feature-rich networking device designed to meet the demanding needs of modern home networks. Launched in 2017, this router is part of ASUS's lineup of high-performance wireless routers. It is estimated to be priced around $100-$150, making it an affordable option for those seeking reliable and fast internet connectivity.

This router is intended for use in medium to large-sized homes, providing strong and stable Wi-Fi coverage. It supports the latest 802.11ac standard, ensuring speeds of up to 1700 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for streaming, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities. The RT-ACRH17 also features four Gigabit Ethernet ports, a USB 3.0 port, and a USB 2.0 port for connecting devices directly or sharing files and printers over the network.

Detailed Specifications (Key Features)

• Wireless Standard: 802.11ac
• Speed: Up to 1700 Mbps (1300 Mbps on 5GHz + 450 Mbps on 2.4GHz)
• Number of Antennas: 3 external antennas
• Gigabit Ethernet Ports: 4
• USB Ports: 1 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 2.0
• Processor: Dual-core processor
• RAM: 256 MB DDR3 RAM
• Operating Frequency: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
• Security: WPA2-PSK, WPA-PSK, WPA-Enterprise, WPA2-Enterprise

Description

The ASUS AC1700 Wireless Gigabit Router RT-ACRH17 boasts a sleek and compact design that fits easily into any home decor. The router's dual-band capability allows it to operate on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, reducing interference and ensuring a smoother internet experience. The AiRadar beamforming technology enhances the Wi-Fi signal, directing it towards connected devices for improved coverage and reliability.

The device also comes with ASUSWRT web-based interface, which provides an intuitive way to manage and customize your network settings. Additionally, features like Quality of Service (QoS) and Parental Controls make it easy to prioritize traffic and restrict access to certain websites or services.

Setup Guide

To set up the ASUS AC1700 Wireless Gigabit Router RT-ACRH17, start by connecting it to your modem using an Ethernet cable. Power on the router and connect to it using a computer or mobile device via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

Open a web browser and navigate to the default IP address (usually 192.168.1.1) to access the ASUSWRT interface. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure your network settings, including setting up your SSID, password, and other preferences.

For wireless devices, simply search for the router's default SSID in your device's Wi-Fi settings and connect using the default password provided in the user manual.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with connectivity or speed, ensure that your firmware is up-to-date. You can check for updates within the ASUSWRT interface.

For dropped connections, try restarting the router or checking for physical obstructions between the router and your devices. Ensure that your devices are updated with the latest drivers and firmware.

For security concerns, always change the default admin password and use strong passwords for your Wi-Fi networks. Regularly update your antivirus software and firewall settings to protect against malware and unauthorized access.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Strong and stable Wi-Fi coverage
• High-speed internet with dual-band support
• User-friendly ASUSWRT interface
• Multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports and USB ports for connectivity
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• No MU-MIMO technology for simultaneous data streaming to multiple devices
• No built-in VPN server

Customer Reviews

Common complaints include occasional drops in connectivity and the lack of advanced features like MU-MIMO technology. Despite these minor drawbacks, the router remains a popular choice for its balance of performance and affordability.