Linksys WRT1200AC Dual-Band Router: features, specs and who it suits

The Linksys WRT1200AC is a dual-band Wi-Fi router for the home. It pairs AC1200 wireless speeds with a dual-core processor, wired gigabit ports and storage connections, and it is known for supporting alternative open-source firmware. It suits people who want a router they can tune and expand.

What AC1200 means

AC1200 is a combined speed class. Linksys describes it as N400 plus AC867: up to 400 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and up to 867 Mbps on the 5GHz band. Those are theoretical maximums for the two bands added together, and no single device gets 1,200 Mbps. Real speeds depend on distance, walls, interference and what the device itself supports.

Dual-band routers let you split devices between the two bands. The 2.4GHz band typically reaches farther through walls, while the 5GHz band is usually faster at shorter range and less crowded.

Processor, antennas and beamforming

The router has a 1.3GHz dual-core CPU. A faster processor generally helps when several devices are busy at once, and when advanced features such as custom firmware are in use.

Linksys fits two adjustable, removable antennas and says they help with range and performance in single and multi-storey buildings. Beamforming is also listed; in general, it concentrates the signal toward a connected device rather than spreading it evenly in all directions, which can help devices that support the feature.

Wired and storage connections

The back panel offers four gigabit Ethernet ports for computers, game consoles, a network switch or a TV box. There is also a USB 3.0 port for external drives or other devices, and an eSATA port that Linksys says allows sharing storage over the network at up to 3 Gbps. A drive on the router can act as a simple home file server, though speeds over Wi-Fi will be lower than the port's listed speed.

Smart Wi-Fi and open-source firmware

Linksys Smart Wi-Fi includes a Network Map, letting you monitor and control the network from anywhere with an account. For advanced users, Linksys says the router offers firmware that is compatible with OpenWrt-style projects and open-source ready, so the capabilities can be extended. Installing third-party firmware is an advanced step that carries its own risks, so follow the firmware project's instructions and Linksys's guidance.

Size and placement

The router measures about 9.8 x 7.7 x 2.0 inches and weighs roughly 2.1 lb. Place it centrally and off the floor, away from thick walls and other electronics, with the antennas adjusted for the building's layout.

Who it suits

It suits homes and apartments with moderate numbers of devices, hobbyists who want the option of custom firmware, and people who want to share a drive across the network. Large homes may need additional access points.

What to check before you buy

• Your internet plan: confirm your modem and plan work with a separate router, and note the router's wired ports are gigabit.
• Your devices: check which Wi-Fi standards they support, since newer devices may support faster standards than AC.
• Storage plans: if you will use the USB or eSATA port, confirm your drive format and cable type.
• Firmware plans: read the project documentation before installing alternative firmware.
• Coverage: consider the size and layout of your home.

The short version

• AC1200 dual-band router (N400 + AC867) with a 1.3GHz dual-core CPU.
• Two removable adjustable antennas and beamforming.
• Four gigabit ports, one USB 3.0 port and one eSATA port.
• Smart Wi-Fi with Network Map, plus support for open-source firmware.
• Check your devices, plan and coverage needs first.

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