EE doesn’t just do mobiles. EE broadband has grown into one of the best networks in the country. So, what router do you get? And is it any good? Read on and we’ll reveal all.
How to get a EE router
To get an EE router, you’ll need to sign up for an EE broadband deal, which you can do right here at Moneysupermarket.
It offers speeds ranging from a basic 10Mbps service right through to a lighting fast 900Mbps product, which requires you to have fibre to the premises (FTTP) tech in your area.
Its Smart Hub Router comes for free with its fibre deals, while users on its Standard Broadband get an EE Bright Box 1.
It’s also possible to buy an EE Smart Hub Router direct from EE, although this will cost £200. Far better to secure a deal and get one without paying.
Which is the latest EE router?
EE’s latest router is its Smart Hub Router. This comes with all of its fibre broadband deals and is absolutely laden with the latest tech, including the latest ac standard WiFi, tons of ports for wired connections and the promise of solid connections thanks to the inclusion of smart channel selection.
Those signing up for EE’s whole home Smart WiFi option get a Smart Hub Router and a Smart WiFi Disc, which creates a mesh network, ensuring you have a rock solid connection throughout the home.
Router specs
Grab a EE Smart Hub Router and you'll get...
Seven antennae
The EE Smart Hub Router crams in seven antennae, meaning that it can reach further into the home, ensuring a better connection compared with most basic broadband offerings.
Smart channel selection
Smart channel selection has become ubiquitous with most top end routers.
It allows for automatic switching between two channels to ensure that you always have a good connection.
Four gigabit Ethernet ports and WAN
The EE Smart Hub Router includes four Gigabit Ethernet ports. This means you can connect consoles and TV boxes easily, as well as a WAN port for creating a home network.
AC standard WiFi
AC standard WiFi is the very latest wireless internet tech around. It means you can connect more devices and gives you a more stable connection.
VDSL2+ modem
For those with FTTP, a VDSL2+ modem means the EE Smart Hub Router is primed and ready for the latest fibre broadband networks.
Setting up an EE router
EE Smart Hub Routers are easy to set up straight out of the box.
However, if you need help the EE website has a comprehensive guide on how to get things going.
This includes a Help and How To video that takes you through which plugs and cables go where. Ideal for those who aren’t fully clued in on the tech world.
Does EE replace old routers for free?
As with all other major providers, you need to sign up or upgrade to get an EE Smart Router for free.
This is fine if your deal is up, but if you’re still under contract and unhappy with your old router, it’s worth calling EE to see if they’ll give you a new router.
Legacy EE routers
EE Bright Box 2
The EE Bright Box 2 was released in 2014 and at the time was a cutting edge piece of kit, with AC standard WiFi and dual band tech.
However, it only had one fast Ethernet port and was widely derided for having poor range. If you still have one, it may be time to upgrade or ask for a new model.
Other routers
How do I know which router I have?
You can check which router you have by going to the EE website. Alternatively, you can enter the IP address found on the bottom or back of your router into your web browser.
This will tell you the exact model that you have.
How do I upgrade my router as an existing customer?
You can upgrade your router by calling and asking for a new deal when your current one expires, or looking here at Moneysupermarket for our best Virgin broadband deals.
Do all new customers get the latest router?
If you sign up for any of EE’s fibre broadband deals then you will get the Smart Hub Router sent to you.
Those on the Standard Broadband deal, which uses the old copper network from Openreach, comes with a basic EE Bright Box 1.
Can I use a different brand of router with EE broadband?
Yes, you can use the likes of Amazon’s Eero or Google Nest with EE broadband. Some routers from other providers may not work, however.
The Smart Hub Router is excellent though, so there’s not really a need to pay for a separate router, unless you’re a hardcore user.
