Single-WAN routers use one internet connection, and their WAN-to-LAN throughput can range from hundreds of megabits per second to multi-Gigabit speeds, depending on the router. Dual-WAN routers add a second connection for load balancing or failover, which can support network availability during an ISP outage, while their throughput still depends on the router’s processing capacity, port speeds, and configuration.

Firewall inspection, VPN encryption, traffic management, and intrusion prevention add processing work that can lower a router’s WAN-to-LAN throughput compared with basic routing, especially when several features run at the same time. Review throughput specifications for the features you plan to enable, since performance varies by router hardware, connection type, and configuration.

Compare the router’s WAN and LAN port speeds, including Gigabit, 2.5 Gigabit, and 10 Gigabit Ethernet, along with connection types such as copper RJ45, SFP, or SFP+ ports. Also check whether a port can be reassigned for WAN use and whether the router supports dual-WAN load balancing or failover when the network requires multiple internet connections.

Residential installations commonly call for a single-WAN wireless router with up to 500 Mbps WAN-to-LAN throughput, or a gigabit single-WAN router for homes with faster service and several wired devices. Small-business sites can use a gigabit dual-WAN router for higher device loads and link failover, while larger commercial networks may benefit from multi-gigabit or 10G dual-WAN routing with VPN, VLAN, and remote-management features.