Hyperoptic launch upgraded WiFi 6 router on all plans

Hyperoptic have announced the launch of a new and upgraded Zyxel router that will now be provided across all of their broadband packages.

The Zyxel EX3301 supports WiFi 6 as well as mesh and MU-MIMO - to ensure improved WiFi performance around the home.

The router comes free with all Hyperoptic broadband packages and existing customers are eligible for a free upgrade when they renew their contract.

Zyxel EX3301

The new Zyxel EX3301 router supports the latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) standard with dual-band wireless channels covering speeds up to 1200Mbps.

The router also supports WPA3 security, 4 x 1Gb Ethernet LAN ports, 1 x USB 2.0 port, and 2 x digital phone line ports.

As with previous Hyperoptic Hyperhubs, the Zyxel EX3301 also supports mesh, which the manufacturer terms Zyxel MPro Mesh, although it will work as any other and connect to Zyxel produced Mini Hubs to seamlessly boost wireless coverage around the home.

Hyperoptic say the new router is now available free to all new Hyperoptic customers, and existing customers can also upgrade to the new device for free when they renew their contract.

Duncan MacDonald, CTIO of Hyperoptic, commented: "We're excited to introduce this new Zyxel router, which represents our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible broadband experience for our customers. With the latest technology and enhanced security features, the router is designed to meet the evolving demands of today's connected homes."

The biggest benefit of this new device is arguably the move from offering different routers across the different speed tier packages, so that all customers now receive the latest wireless technology.

Hyperoptic plans

One of the UK's most established independent full fibre networks, Hyperoptic has coverage across the UK, and now passes over 1.73 million homes with more than 340,000 customers.

While they've previously focused on connecting blocks of flats and apartment buildings, the provider is also now branching out to connect individual houses to their network and moving from fibre to the building to more fibre to the home installations.

Hyperoptic are active in 64 towns and cities across the UK, although availability does vary even in these locations, so use our free broadband tool to check coverage.

As well as promising no mid-contract price hikes, Hyperoptic also offer some of the most competitive pricing, with plans starting from as little as £17.99 per month for 30Mbps.

The provider also offers gigabit speeds with an average download and upload speed of 900Mbps and a guaranteed minimum speed of 900Mbps as well. This 1Gb plan currently costs just £39 per month, making it one of the most affordable gigabit-capable packages available.

It is worth remembering though, that even with a new router the best broadband speeds will only be achieved through wired connections. However, add-ons like Hyperoptic's Total WiFi, which costs £7 per month, provides an additional booster device which can increase coverage and therefore wireless speeds around a home.

Read more in our review of Hyperoptic broadband.