Firewall routers from US brands and US-based sellers

What to look for in a good firewall router

• Processor and throughput. Check the rated VPN or firewall throughput, not just the WAN speed, since a weak chipset can advertise gigabit ports but drop to a fraction of that once inspection rules are turned on.
• Firmware update record. Look for a model with a visible history of security patches, because a router that never gets firmware updates is just an open door with a nice case.
• Port and case build. Metal housings and shielded gigabit ports dissipate heat and resist connector wear better than the thin plastic shells common on bargain units, which warp and loosen after months of steady use.
• Price as a signal. In this category, sellers with verifiable business info tend to sit between $105 and $300, so a firewall router priced well under that is cutting corners somewhere you can't inspect before buying.