When you sign up for Internet service, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) will send you a consumer-grade router which often also functions as a wireless router. For most people, this device is “good enough” from a security perspective. But I would like to suggest investing in your own network equipment. This has several advantages.

Cost

Many ISPs charge a monthly “rental” fee for a router. While this charge may seem small, even $5 per month adds up to $120 over the course of 2 years. Having your own equipment may actually save money over the long term.

Flexibility

Having your own router gives you the flexibility to change internet service without having to reconfigure your internal network and can reduce “down time” if you change ISPs. If you use the router supplied by your ISP and you get new internet service, you will have to install a new router — set up wireless settings (including your network name and password), reconfigure other network settings, and do all of this on an unfamiliar device.

Conversely, if you have your own router, when your new ISP sets up service, all you have to do is unplug your router from your old ISP’s modem and plug it into your new ISP’s modem.

Security

This is where owning your own router really pays off. The router your ISP provides is designed to be simple, not secure — and it often locks you out of settings that matter. With your own router, you get full control, including:

  • Guest WiFi network — Create a separate network for visitors, smart TVs, and other devices so they can’t access your computers and phones even if one of them gets compromised.
  • Parental controls — Block specific websites or categories of content for devices used by your children, right at the router level, so it applies to every device on your network.
  • DNS control — Change your DNS settings to a security-focused service that automatically blocks malware and objectionable websites. (I have another post explaining exactly how to do this.)

These features exist on many affordable routers you can buy yourself — but are often unavailable or hidden on the router your ISP hands you.

Bottom line: I strongly recommend you purchase your own router. The security benefits alone make it worth it, and you’ll likely save money over time compared to paying a monthly rental fee.