ASUS ExpertWiFi EBG19P PoE+ VPN router: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS ExpertWiFi EBG19P is a wired gigabit router for small and mid-sized businesses. It has eight Power over Ethernet (PoE+) ports, several ways to connect to the internet and built-in VPN and security features. It has no Wi-Fi radio of its own: it is meant to power and manage separate access points. Here is what that means.

What a wired PoE router does

Many offices and shops use ceiling-mounted Wi-Fi access points, IP cameras and VoIP phones. PoE lets a single Ethernet cable carry both data and power to them, so there is no nearby outlet or separate adapter. The EBG19P combines the router and the PoE power source in one unit.

Eight PoE+ ports and 123 watts

ASUS says the eight PoE ports can deliver up to 123 watts in total. That is a shared total rather than a figure for each port. PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at) typically allows up to 30W per port, but a device's draw is usually lower, and the total across all connected devices must stay within 123W. As a rough guide, access points and cameras often draw well under the per-port limit. Check each device's stated power draw and add them up.

Multiple internet connections

The router supports up to three WAN Ethernet ports, made up of one gigabit WAN port and two gigabit WAN/LAN ports. Using them with load balancing lets a business spread traffic across several broadband lines. A USB port can serve as a backup WAN when connected to a mobile phone with a hotspot, which helps maintain connectivity if the main line fails. Check the router's manual for compatible phones and plan the data use of a hotspot.

VLANs

Each Ethernet port can be assigned to one or more VLAN IDs. VLANs separate a network into logical groups, such as staff, guests and cameras, so traffic in one group doesn't mix with another. ASUS lists this as added security for businesses.

VPN and security

ASUS describes commercial-grade network security with Safe Browsing and VPN features to secure public Wi-Fi connections. The listing also mentions a subscription to ASUS AiProtection Pro with intrusion prevention (IPS), including deep packet inspection (DPI) and virtual patching to block malicious traffic. Check ASUS's terms for the length of the included subscription and what happens after it ends.

Managing it

The router is configured with the ExpertWiFi app. ASUS says it also offers centralised control over PoE devices connected to it, such as the EBA63 access point, and that it is compatible with the rest of the ExpertWiFi line, so coverage can grow as needed.

Size

It measures about 3.7 x 1.0 x 8.4 inches and weighs 1.2 lb, as listed.

Who it suits

• Small offices, shops and clinics with a few access points and cameras.
• Businesses with two broadband lines, or one line plus a cellular backup.
• Networks that want to keep staff, guest and device traffic separate.
• Installers building an ExpertWiFi system.

What to check before you buy

• PoE power total: add up the wattage of every device you plan to power and compare it with 123W.
• Wi-Fi: you need separate access points, as the router doesn't provide Wi-Fi.
• Internet lines: confirm how many connections you have and how your provider hands them off.
• VPN needs: check the VPN types and number of users your setup requires in the specifications.
• Cabling: use Ethernet cable rated for the distance and PoE power.
• Mounting: check the manual for mounting and ventilation instructions.

The short version

• A wired ASUS router with eight PoE+ ports and up to 123W.
• Up to three WAN ports, plus a USB backup using a phone hotspot.
• VLANs, VPN and AiProtection Pro with IPS, DPI and virtual patching.
• No built-in Wi-Fi; managed through the ExpertWiFi app.

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