Synology Inc., manufacturer of award-winning Network Attached Storage devices (NAS), has launched its first router, the RT1900ac, in the US. The 802.11ac WiFi router broadcasts both 2.4GHz and 5GHz signals for combined data transfer speeds of up to 1900mbps. Boasting a slew of software features, the RT1900ac is perfect for home or office and comes with an MSRP of $149.99.
You may remember that I’ve posted before about the RT1900ac, noting that 2016 was shaping up to be Synology’s greatest year yet, and this new router does not disappoint. The RT1900ac runs on the new Synology Router Manager (SRM) operating system with its intuitive user interface and easy-t0-use network settings. If SRM works anywhere near as well as its NAS operating system, DiskStation Manager works, the RT1900ac will be hugely successful.
Check out some of the key features from Synology’s press release:
- Easy to Use –Desktop-like interface makes it easy for beginners to manage their entire network settings.
- Free Updates – Regular software updates means a more secure product with new features to enjoy.
- Add-on Packages – Users can download free packages and transform the RT1900ac into a VPN server, RADIUS authentication server, DNS server, media server and 24/7 download hub for their homes and offices.
- Convenient Access – Access SRM by aiming your browser at “router.synology.com” during installation, or use a customizable QuickConnect ID, DDNS address to access SRM anywhere in the world. http://bit.ly/1O7hsrx
- DS router – Available on Android or iOS devices, conveniently manage your Synology router settings from the palm of your hand. Review real time traffic monitoring and wireless network management.
The RT1900ac also has a host of advanced networking tools, including:
- Traffic Monitor – Provides intuitive and detailed graphic view on network resource allocation.
- Beamforming – User-controlled beamforming focuses wireless signals towards supported devices to: reduce latency, economize power consumption and improve the wireless range.
- Application Layer QoS – Allows users to control internet availability by device and networking applications.
- Parental Controls – Easily set up access times for each device and create built-in DNS based web filter.
Looking purely at its features and ease of use, the RT1900ac looks like it could compete with Apple’s Airport Extreme in the consumer WiFi router market. Synology’s first router offering even includes features not offered by many WiFi routers, including the option to turn your WiFi network into a VPN server, DNS server, etc. using Synology’s SRM operating system.
For a full look at all of the RT1900ac’s features and specs, check out Synology’s product page.