Best Routers in 2025

OpenWrt is an open-source firmware based on Linux for wireless routers.

Key OpenWrt features:

Customizability Performance Security Community Support

Open Source

pfSense is a free and open source firewall and router that also features unified threat management, load balancing, multi WAN, and more.

Key pfSense features:

Open Source Comprehensive Feature Set Customizability Excellent Documentation

Open Source

The main product of MikroTik is a Linux-based operating system known as MikroTik RouterOS.

Key MikroTik RouterOS features:

Cost-Effective Feature-Rich Scalability Customizability

A Tomato by Shibby fork with intuitive and modern flat design GUI.

Key AdvancedTomato features:

User-Friendly Interface Customization Options Enhanced Performance Open Source

Gargoyle Router Firmware home page.

Key Gargoyle features:

Open Source Broad Hardware Compatibility Advanced Bandwidth Management User-Friendly Interface

OPNsense® you next open source firewall. Free Download. High-end Security Made Easy™. Offers Intrusion Prevention, Captive Portal, Traffic Shaping and more.

Key OPNsense features:

Open Source Regular Updates User-Friendly Interface Comprehensive Feature Set

Open Source

A software platform to implement a complete public wifi service.

Key OpenWISP features:

Open Source Modular Architecture Scalability Centralized Management

Open Source

The Norton Core is a router that's focused on a network security. It has a very unique design, and while it's still haven't been tested in real life and is only available for pre-order, it claims to be mighty fast.

Key Norton Core features:

Enhanced Security Parental Controls User-Friendly App Network Performance

An Open Source Sofware for Geek-free Mesh Community Networks.

Key LibreMesh features:

Open Source Community-Driven Scalability Decentralization

AirPort Extreme is a straightforward router that's great for users who don't need any additional customization options.

Key AirPort Extreme features:

Ease of Use Dual-Band Wi-Fi Reliable Performance Aesthetic Design

IPFire is a server distribution with intended to use as a firewall.

Key IPFire features:

Open Source Comprehensive Security Features Regular Updates Flexible Deployment

Wifi router beta with a twist: you build it yourself.

Key MIWIFI by Xiaomi features:

Affordable Pricing High Performance User-Friendly Interface Innovative Features

Utilizing four high-performance antennas and power amplifiers,This Linksys router is a good option for those looking for reliability and good signal coverage, both in domestic or work environments.

Key Linksys WRT1900ACS features:

Performance Open Source Ready Dual Core Processor Ample Connectivity Options