ASUS RT-AC68U AC1900 Dual-Band WiFi Router: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS RT-AC68U is a dual-band Wi-Fi router in the AC1900 class, with gigabit wired ports. It is meant for homes that stream, game and connect many devices at once, and it works as part of an AiMesh network. This page explains what the main specs mean.

What "AC1900" means

AC1900 is a combined figure: ASUS says the router uses 802.11ac 3x3 technology on two bands for speeds of up to 1900 Mbps. That number adds the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands together, so no single device will reach it. In general, the 5GHz band is faster at shorter range and the 2.4GHz band reaches farther through walls. The router also supports the older 802.11a/b/g/n standards, so older devices can still connect. It supports IPv4 and IPv6.

Processor and memory

A 1GHz dual-core CPU, 128MB of flash and 256MB of RAM run the router. ASUS says the dual-core chip dedicates separate lanes to Wi-Fi and USB data, which helps when several things are happening at once.

Security and family controls

ASUS lists AiProtection powered by Trend Micro, including malicious site blocking, a two-way IPS and infected device prevention and blocking. This operates at the router, so it covers every connected device. Parental controls allow limits on who can use the network and when. The listing refers to lifetime internet security with the router.

Traffic management and network features

Adaptive QoS prioritises certain traffic, such as gaming or streaming, when the connection is busy. The listing also names:

• Internet connection types: PPPoE, PPTP, L2TP, automatic IP and static IP.
• Dual WAN, 3G/4G LTE dongle and Android tethering support.
• Port forwarding (up to 64 rules), port triggering (up to 32 rules), DMZ and DDNS.
• VPN passthrough for PPTP, L2TP and IPSec, plus RTSP, H.323, SIP passthrough and PPPoE relay.
• Guest networks: three on 2.4GHz and three on 5GHz.

Setup and management

The ASUSWRT web interface handles setup, and the ASUS router app lets you monitor and manage the network from a phone. The listing advises reading the installation and user manuals before use. The power adapter outputs 19 volts at up to 1.75 amps. The router measures about 6.3 x 3.3 x 8.6 inches and weighs 1.4 lb.

Who it suits

It suits households that need solid coverage with advanced controls, people who want to build an AiMesh system by adding compatible ASUS routers later, and anyone who likes tweaking port forwarding and QoS settings.

What to check before you buy

• Internet speed and plan: the router is a gigabit device, so check that your connection and modem suit it.
• Modem: this is a router, so you need a separate modem if your provider requires one.
• Wi-Fi standard: AC is not Wi-Fi 6, so your newer devices will connect at AC speeds.
• AiMesh: check ASUS's list of compatible routers if you plan to build a mesh.
• Coverage: thick walls and larger homes may need a second unit.
• Setup: read the manual before setup, as the listing advises.

The short version

• A dual-band AC1900 router, model RT-AC68U V4, with up to 1900 Mbps combined.
• 1GHz dual-core CPU, 256MB RAM and 128MB flash.
• AiProtection from Trend Micro, adaptive QoS and parental controls.
• Dual WAN, USB-modem support, port forwarding and guest networks.
• AiMesh compatible and managed through ASUSWRT or the ASUS router app.

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