So you’re probably in the market for a router? You’ve maybe looked at a couple of places and have settled in on a mesh router. Maybe you’ve heard about the Gryphon AX and really want to know what the buzz is all about. I remember first seeing the Gryphon AX when a neighbor called me about helping him set it up. At first, I was like “Why didn’t you go with Google Nest Wifi?” And he said, “This came highly recommended from a friend at work.” I have to be honest, the Gryphon AX is a pretty sweet piece of mesh Wifi tech. With a flooded market of mesh routers, it can be difficult to pick the right one. Some of us default to what our friends recommend. Some of us hit the interwebs to find out. Gryphon is a popular brand offering these types of devices. One of their most talked-about mesh routers is Gryphon AX. But is it worth the hype? Should you buy it? Does it really deliver the blazing fast speeds it claims with Wifi 6? We’ll answer all these questions in this Gryphon AX review. So, let’s look at its features, pros, cons, and more!
The Ultimate Gryphon AX Review
Some of these specs are definitely worthy to geek out about, and a lot of these you may not understand. For those of you that may not have any idea what AC speed is and why that’s important, just briefly glance through this next section knowing that these specs are what we’d expect from a premium mesh Wifi router.
Gryphon AX Specs
Advanced Internet Protection: Provides next-gen firewall security that keeps your devices safe while using the internet
Wifi Guest option
Gryphon Homebound which is on the go security + enhanced parental controls
Powered by WiFi 6 (Gryphon claims a 40% increase in WiFi speed and total WiFi data throughput)
Speed: Can deliver up to 4.3 Gbps of total Wifi data throughput
Wireless Specification: 802.11ax
AC Speed: AX4300
Bands: 3
Antennas: 6 high-powered internal antennas
1 WAN Port + 1 Gigabit LAN Ports w/ Ethernet Backhaul
MU-MIMO: Yes
Quality of service (QoS): Yes (this allows you to prioritize the internet traffic of specific devices
Ipv6 compatible: Yes
Security Protocol: WPA2, WPA3
Area Coverage: Up to 3000 square feet
Nodes: 2
Anti-malware tools: Yes
Wired backhaul: Yes
DD-WRT: No
USB Ports: No
About Gryphon AX
The Gryphon AX comes in single and dual-router devices. The latter consists of identical white towers with an area coverage of 5000 square feet. However, the single node can still cover up to 3000 square feet, which is one of the highest square footage coverage areas in the mesh WiFi router market. Just one unit is perfect for small and medium-sized homes.
The mesh router offers an additional 40% faster WiFi connectivity. It means you can use several devices simultaneously and face no connectivity or speed issues. The device is tested to ensure no connection issues within its area coverage. My buddy has over 40 devices connected to his and noticed zero slow-down in speeds. That’s pretty impressive.
Gryphon AX also ensures reliability. Whether you are playing games, live streaming, or simply surfing the internet, you will notice a balanced and uninterrupted speed. Gryphon AX makes setup and management as easy as it gets. Thanks to the Gryphon app, you get full control over the mesh router. The app has all the basic and advanced options, including WiFi settings, band steering, and IoT networking. Plus, it is available for both iOS and Android. By scanning the QR code on the bottom of the router, you can get started with the application. I love how companies have really put a priority on easy setup and installation. It really shows with this device as well. I should note that at the time of this review, the only control method is through the app. You won’t be able to configure or do anything on a web-based interface. Not a deal-breaker, but I’ve read where some users wish this was an option.
However, one of the best things (maybe the BEST) about the Gryphon AX review is the device’s security features. It outsmarts most other mesh WiFi routers in this aspect. It allows you to set up a secure connection and monitor throughout. I love that it prevents unknown connections (like when my kids give away our Wifi password) and I love that I can track traffic history on my network.
Gryphon AX also offers parental controls, allowing you to manage an entire network from your mobile application. It is equipped with Intelligent Intrusion Detection, which quickly notifies you of any malware device connection in the network. The mesh router also features Malware Filtering, Regular Security Updates, and Ads reduction.
Gryphon AX has Device Vulnerability Scanning. It allows the mesh router to scan all the connected devices to give security updates (it runs the scanning on your smart appliances as well). Although it has top-notch security, you can upgrade to advanced protection. It comes free for 90 days. After that, you will have to pay $7.99 per month. Again, I don’t think that’s necessary, but is an option. The choices are good.
Gryphon AX Pros & Cons
Pros
Easy to install and manage
Strong security protocols and parental controls
Solid signal strength
Uninterrupted performance
Blazing speeds
Provides regular security updates
Blocks ads!
And a ton more!
Cons
Advanced security tools require a subscription
Compared to rivals in the market, it’s an expensive piece of hardware
The only control method is the Gryphon app
Have been some reports of being buggy with the Android app
So…Is The Gryphon AX Really Worth All The Buzz? Does It Really Deliver Blazing Fast Speeds?
The Gryphon wifi Router is definitely worth all the buzz! It’s a great router with tons of features and it’s very user-friendly. I highly recommend it! But..the question remains, should you buy it? Well, it depends entirely on your requirements. Depends on what you’re looking for in a mesh Wifi router. If you want a secure and strong mesh router with great parental controls and the capability of handling fast speeds, the Gryphon AX is a solid piece of equipment. For this price point, there are better options on the market (the Google Nest Wifi, for example).
Here’s Why You Should Buy Gryphon Ax Router From Amazon
Amazon is probably the best place to buy electronics because of its unbeatable prices, large selection, and convenient delivery. We’ll even add to that their return policy. With the Gryphon Ax router specifically, you get free returns and the process (if you’ve never done it) is amazingly easy. For the most part, you get pretty solid product support from Amazon. They won’t hassle you about returning an item. In fact, most of the time it’s all automated so there’s no one to talk to.
Gryphon Ax aside, electronics, in general, can be expensive, but Amazon offers great deals on all kinds of gadgets. You can also find rare and discontinued models on Amazon (even eBay for that matter), as well as the latest releases. Plus, Amazon Prime members enjoy free two-day shipping on most items.
Eero Pro is a new type of mesh WiFi router that promises to blanket your home with fast, reliable Internet. We put it to the test to see if it lives up to the hype. Spoiler alert: It does! The Eero Pro is hands-down, one of the best mesh WiFi routers we’ve ever used. If you’re in the market for a new router, or even if you’re not, this is one piece of tech worth checking out.
EERO was a start-up that got money from venture capitalists. It sold mesh Wi-Fi networks through many stores, like Amazon and Best Buy. Fast forward a little bit and now Amazon owns EERO. Extending your Wi-Fi network throughout your home or office with the EERO Pro Mesh Wi-Fi system is a fantastic option for improved speeds anywhere in your home. This device connects to your wireless network using a base station router and beacons. EERO Pro routers can be used together, or you can use a single EERO router with many beacons or any combination of these. If you want to buy this product, a few things have been tried and should be kept in mind. Read on for our full review of the Eero Pro mesh WiFi router.
Sleek Design + Easy To Match with Other Decor
With its sleek design and smaller size than most routers, the EERO Pro is a great device. Even more simple: There are no antennas on this one. There are just two Ethernet ports. It wasn’t as big of a feature in the past, but more and more consumers want their technology to look good, especially in their living areas. We don’t want these big, bulky technological eyesores right in the middle of the living room and kitchen. This is why I love the idea of beacons and waypoints. All you need is an outlet and they’re very discreet.
Installation Process: Setup Is Easier Than You Ever Imagined
Assuming you have a basic understanding of WiFi and routers, the eero Pro is actually quite easy to install. Simply follow the directions that come with the product and you should be up and running in no time! Plus, if you have any trouble, their customer support is excellent. If using a mesh network or setting up your own wireless network seemed too complex in the past, and you avoided it, then the EERO Pro will change your mind. We’ve never seen anything quite as simple as this, and it’s accomplished using a Smartphone app that guides you through each step. As we’ve talked about before in the past with other reviews, the amount of time and energy these hardware companies are pouring into their app development and design is manifesting itself with incredible ease of use and functionality. I don’t think integrated apps have EVER worked as well as they do now across the board. I only expect it to get better as time progresses.
Best Locations & Customized Suggestions for The Best Places To Go
With EERO Pro and beacons, you are free to place them wherever you want, but with the app, you can find the best spots in your living area. You can use the app to see suggestions that are specific to your home by telling it how many floors it has and selecting a floor plan that resembles yours. This simple feature is one of the most innovative functions for those who are unsure where to put beacons for the best signal through their living area.
Mesh WiFi routers are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to create a strong and reliable network by using multiple routers. The more routers you have in your mesh network, the stronger and more reliable your network will be.
One of the benefits of using a mesh WiFi router is that it can provide better connectivity in areas of your home or office where traditional routers struggle to reach. Additionally, mesh WiFi routers are often easier to set up and manage than traditional routers.
With the EERO Pro, it comes with WiFi 6. This type is the latest version of WiFi and it provides faster speeds and improved reliability. It’s backward compatible with previous versions of WiFi, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues.
WiFi 6 is also known as 802.11ax and it offers several improvements over older versions of WiFi. For example, it can handle more devices at once without experiencing a slowdown, and it’s better equipped to handle interference from other devices in your home or office.
The Pro version can cover up to 2,000 square feet for one unit and can support speeds up to a gigabit. The standard 6 version can get you speeds of up to 900Mbps.
On your iPhone or Android phone, you can download the EERO Smartphone app. When you start the network, you need the app to do it. You also need the app to keep the network running after you set it up. You can tell EERO has put a lot of ingenuity and innovation into the app platform. Simplicity is a theme we noticed throughout every aspect of EERO Pro.
Easy To Use
There is no web interface for managing EERO Pro, but don’t worry. Most routers have an app for management. I personally prefer the accessibility of using an app vs a web interface. The app is the only way to manage your router. I can see how that might steer someone away from getting one of these, but it shouldn’t. It’s the 2020s and it’s time to ditch your landline. Time to ditch your flip phone and get an upgrade.
Robust Parental Controls + Advance Features
If you’ve read anything we’ve posted about parental controls in the technology in our homes, you’d know it’s a high priority. The EERO checks the box on just about every parental control feature you’d want. Robust parental controls are built-in in EERO Pro, and you can control them through an app on your phone or tablet. In order to use it, you have to set up profiles for everyone in your family and assign devices to them. If you don’t want your kids to be online during homework time or at night, or if they don’t want to be online when it’s time for them to do homework, you can set up parental controls and internet pauses for them. This takes a little bit of time initially setting up and is relatively easy to do so, BUT…an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure (or so the saying goes). Taking that time upfront to set up the parental features and advanced settings is worth it.
Pros and Cons
Pros
It’s easy to set up with a phone app.
You won’t have Wi-Fi “dead zones”, especially if you get a beacon or two. Something that you can experience with mesh routers.
Parents are all in charge.
Easily expandable
With no prior experience, it is easy to set up.
Fast wired and wireless speeds
Leverage the power of Wifi 6
Cons
There are only two Ethernet ports in the whole house (not a deal-breaker, but has been noted by some users that this is a pain point).
It is a little bit costly IF you don’t take advantage of all the amazing features.
There is no way to put devices or traffic first.
Concluding Thoughts On The EERO Pro
If you’re in the market for a new mesh wifi router, we highly recommend checking out EEOR Pro. It’s super easy to set up, comes with great parental controls, and has amazing connectivity and speeds. Plus, it comes packed with features that make it perfect for any home. There are a lot of different wifi routers on the market, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. If you’re looking for a router that will provide fast and reliable internet coverage throughout your entire home, then the Eero Pro mesh wifi router is a great option. Just remember: when it comes to tech if you buy cheap, you usually get cheap.
There are numerous methods to strengthen the security of our home network and one of those ways is through a bit of nifty gadget called Firewalla Red. Once connected to your network, it offers us a ton of information on what happens in it: what mobile devices, laptops, smart gadgets, and others connected to the network do. If you’re a casual internet goer and want some basic protection for your network, Firewalla Red is great.
Firewalla Red is an all-in-one solution to the difficulties we face with network security with all the many devices. Firewalla Red does an optimal job at securing all of your digital stuff by connecting to your router. It can safeguard your family from cyber risks, prevent advertisements, regulate kids’ internet usage, and even protect you when you are out on public WiFi. We’re going to walk you through what we found with this small, yet effective firewall hardware.
Incredibly Easy Installation
The app can be easily installed on your mobile device. All you need is your WiFi router and a power source, the app on your mobile device, and a barcode scanner. To get started, simply scan the barcode on the box and connect to your WiFi. You can manage and monitor your device from anywhere on the globe, thanks to this functionality. Both iPhone and Android versions are available.
Compatibility
100 Mbits is the limit for IPS functionality. Depending on your router, this gadget works well with most routers and not as well with others. For router compatibility, you can check out the website to make sure yours is on the list before getting the device. For configuration, depending on the router you may have to log in to the router to perform a handful of configurations. Overall, there should be many compatibility issues with Firewalla products. We’ve heard from users that they run into issues when using Firewalla with Google Mesh Wifi, but it took us maybe an extra 4-5 minutes of setup to overcome that small hurdle.
It’s hard to imagine, you get this much protection in a small device. Your Firewalla Red home and wireless internet of things devices all are protected by its unique intrusion prevention system (IDS and IPS) against threats, including viruses, malware, hacking, phishing, cyberattacks, unwanted data theft when using public WiFi, and a slew of other protections.
Filtering Of Content and Blocking Functionality
You don’t have to unplug the power cord from the dusty old router anymore to get your kids to stop using your network. No more wondering what devices are accessing what content. You can check out what any device is doing on your network straight from your Smartphone. Want to block all access, or block off just gaming or social networks? Done with a click. As the primary account and keeper of the network, you can easily keep online activities on your network cyber-healthy and safe by enabling Family Protect, which screens out adult content and blocks malicious content. It’s a set it and forget it feature we love.
Ability to Activate Protection
With Firewalla Red, you can get a deep knowledge of your network and cloud-based behavior with an analytics engine that identifies and blocks problems as they arise. As a result of continuous monitoring, you will have complete visibility into all IoT devices within your network and will be able to monitor comprehensive network flows, bandwidth analysis, and internet troubleshooting. Nothing is bulletproof in the world of cyber security, but we can have safe online surfing and free from hacking the internet with Firewalla Red.
Alert Messages, Configured Successfully
Once Firewalla Red is linked, you will receive the first alert messages, which indicates each of the devices it discovers connected to the network. These notifications are configured by default. Some people get annoyed with over notifications of apps and devices. I am one of those people who hate getting unnecessary notifications. But if those notifications are purposeful and lead to value, that’s all that matters. You can customize in the app AND on your smartphone device just how frequent and aggressive you want those notifications.
Keeping your gadgets safe from cyber attacks and cyber threats
Advanced information for your network
Keeping confidential company information safe
Filtering content dynamically
Client-server VPN functionality is incorporated right into the operating system.
Services are free of charge every month. No monthly fees is fantastic!
30-day return policy and a one-year warranty
Cons
Unless you have a router that is compatible with it, do not purchase it. Be sure to check first! One you’ll want to look at is that some routers (although not officially supported) can still be used, but it requires a geek in the home. Using DHCP Mode. I did when I ran my Blue with my Synology Router and was able to get it to work. But again…you’ll need a geek in the home.
Creating a VPN server can be complicated for most people, but there is a vast Firewalla community to help if you are confused
100 Mbps speeds may seem slow for internet super users. If this is an issue for you, upgrade your expectations with Firewalla Purple.
Alerts can be a nuisance until you learn how to fine-tune them to your preference.
So…Should You Get Firewalla Red?
Despite having a few cons, Firewalla Red is a fantastic product that we highly recommend! You can secure your home networks with this stylish, comfortable, and practical solution. Many folks will breathe a sigh of relief knowing they can have a simple home network security option like Firewalla Red. The Firewalla app allows you to share data, hide your IP address, and secure your network, all from the convenience of your mobile device (making it very accessible). Custom settings give you more control over the security of your home wireless networks while also providing you with greater transparency into the choices you’ve made.
Every day, we hear about cyber attacks and the damage they can do. Whether it’s a business or someone’s personal information that has been compromised, these attacks are becoming more and more common. And as our lives move more and more online, the need for good cybersecurity becomes even more important. One way to help protect your home or business network is by using a firewall. A firewall is a piece of software or hardware that helps to prevent unauthorized access to your computer or network. There are many different types of firewalls available, but one you may want to consider is Firewalla Gold.
Firewalla Gold is a firewall designed for home and small business users. It provides protection against malware, ransomware, and other online threats. In this Firewalla Gold review, we dive deep enough to find out if this firewall hardware is the best device for monitoring your business or home network.
Firewalla Gold Explained
Firewalla Gold is a cybersecurity device that combines a router and a smart firewall in one compact design. How does it compare to other Firewalla devices? Comparing Gold to Firewalla Red and Blue, the Gold is packed with features and benefits (and we’ll get into all of those below). It can support over 3 Gigabit of throughput on top of the existing feature sets (versus 1 Gigabit of throughput you get with Firewalla Purple). Firewalla Gold introduces many exciting new functionalities. What kind of amazing functionalities? Router mode, network segmentation, and enhancement and rules. Firewalla Gold is a fully functional router. The new Firewalla Purple has some of these features as well.
With four Ethernet ports with Gold, you can segment the network with physical LANS and VLANs to isolate traffic in different segments and apply different policies. For example, you can create a guest network as a VLAN and block devices in the guest network from accessing other parts of your network. You can also use a device group when you want to manage multiple devices with the same policy that you can set up and customize. For example, on your kids’ devices with one tap, you can control internet access for all devices in the group. Simple. As a parent, this is one beefy piece of hardware that can do a ton to help you monitor and manage your home network. There are many other design features we love, but here are some of our quick thoughts on the Firewalla Gold.
Our Quick Thoughts On Firewalla Gold
Pros: We love how Firewalla claims “Firewalla Gold [is] the world’s most affordable multi-gigabit smart firewall.” And after doing some research, this is primarily true. Firewalla Gold does a LOT. If you want privacy protection? You got it. Looking for optimal cyber security? Dunzo. Parental controls? Bingo. We counted over 20 useful and effective features and benefits of Firewalla Gold. It’s just layer after layer of enhanced and effective security for your home or business network.
Cons: This device does a TON! The amount of features and benefits along with all the other bells and whistles, and amounts of data you can find is incredible. So how is that a bad thing? Well…it can be a bit overwhelming. Although we didn’t find installing and using Firewalla Gold to be terribly difficult, we understand how many entry-level users could experience a learning curve with this piece of somewhat complex hardware. But diving into the tutorials and help support on their website will help reconcile any issues you face. Spending a modest 15-20 minutes to learn and understand how to install Gold will pay dividends. During the review, we really didn’t find anything of negative value about Firewalla Gold.
Verdict: Firewalla Gold is the perfect solution for any family that wants complete control of their home network. Whether you are looking to block pesky ads or protect against hackers, this device offers it all with ease and precision! Takes a little bit of time for setup, but the benefits are definitely there.
As if its innovative features weren’t enough reason alone why every household serious about network security should consider getting one today…it also comes at an affordable price point (within the context of what it can do) which will fit even those tight budgets out there.
Firewalla Gold is a great solution for monitoring your home network security and even your business. It’s a powerful firewall and intrusion detection system that will protect your data and keep you and your business and family safe online. This is a perfect device especially if you run a business from home. A few of my favorite features of this product are that it acts as a firewall, has a 3 Gigabit deep packet inspection hardware (compared to Purple’s 1 Gigabit), and has content and policy-based routing. Other features worth mentioning are:
VPN Client (for secure browsing and streaming, encrypts your data)
Bridge Mode which can bridge two networks seamlessly together
Simple plug and play features for setup (they claim 5 minutes…for most, it might take a little longer though)
Robust network segmentation
Enhanced and effective parental controls
Built-in ad blocker
Geo-blocking
Multiple WLAN Connections. You can hook up to 4 separate WLAN connections. For example, while I’m already using 2 connections, I can also use one for my fiber connection and another for my Starlink Satellite. I can load balance them, failover them, or load balance them with a priority level for each port. Firewalla Gold’s multiple WLAN connections feature is pretty sweet.
Has 32GB of storage
Firewalla Gold Is relatively small
A VPN encryption speed of 120 Mbits
This is a very robust piece of hardware and many will be overwhelmed with the amount of data you can get from Firewalla Gold. The trick is sifting out what is important to you as the user. And those priorities are probably going to be different from parent to a business person. You might understand some of what was mentioned above. But there may be some of you who won’t exactly know what all of this is. And that’s okay. Just understand that it’s awesome tech. But features smeatures. How do all of these high-tech, enhanced features benefit you?
Bear with us because some of these benefits just won’t speak to you. Some of them we get geeked about and some are ones most people (parents…we’re talking to you) can relate to. Here are some of the benefits of the Firewalla Gold that you should be stoked about:
Incredible protection. Firewalla Gold will keep your devices and data safe from cyber attacks
Firewalla’s VPN client alone is worth the cost of the device. No monthly contracts. After a few years, on this benefit alone it can pay for itself.
Firewalla Gold will monitor and control internet usage of every device connected to your network. Want to restrict internet access on one device and not the other? Easy. Don’t want little Jonny playing online games between 5-7? Simple. Want to receive alerts and notifications about certain online activity on your network? Not a problem. Block adult content. Easy. Block porn. No sweat. Want application-based monitoring? Firewalla does it all.
The Firewalla app and its integration with the piece of hardware is flawless and easy to operate. If you do have issues, there are ample amounts of tutorials online to help.
Geo-Blocking is another awesome benefit because we can block any network traffic from China, Turkey, Russian, Taiwan, Romania, and any of those countries that have a high concentration of incredible hackers. This benefit alone can stop hackers from attacking your business and personal data.
Firewalla Gold is going to block ads, which let’s be honest…can be very annoying at times.
Building a well-oiled and well-protected network is a breeze. Block domains and domains with wildcards. Block IP addresses. Port-based blocking abilities. Notifications when any device is online or offline. Regulate network traffic so you can prioritize traffic and reduce delays. Get impeccable and useful data insights into your network usage.
It’s understandable why there would be a little bit of overwhelm when looking at all the amazing things Firewalla Gold can do. It has a lot of power to do some incredible things. Theoretically, it is built for the advanced user. BUT…Firewalla Gold is the piece of hardware that will make you feel secure knowing your home and business networks are protected.
How Do I Install Firewalla Gold (H2)
Firewalla makes it easy to get started with their products by providing a step-by step guide on how you can easily install them. First of all, download the free Firewalla app from either Apple Store or Google Play store and follow instructions for connecting devices including plugging in the power code provided along with cords that connect everything together nicely.
Firewalla Gold Help/Support (H2)
The company’s support services are phenomenal. They offer a variety of ways to get help, including an extensive community and router compatibility checker tool that can pinpoint any issues you’re having with your device in just seconds!
All in all, their support services include a help center, a community (and I have found a lot of useful information there), router compatibility look-up, install guides, user manuals, app download helps, troubleshooting guides, and your basic contact help support tickets.
Firewalla Warranties
We’re happy to report that Firewalla is a brand we can trust. The warranty for their products stands behind its promise of quality and longevity, as well! All Firewalla hardware (Gold included) is backed by a limited one-year manufacturer’s warranty. In the scope of hardware devices, a one-year warranty is pretty good. This doesn’t mean you can be rough with the device. It is a Limited Warranty under normal use and service. They also have a decent return policy as well (30 days), but if you don’t buy directly from Firewalla (like Amazon, Indiegogo, or another reseller) you will have to follow those store policies on returns and refunds.
If you’re in the market for a new network security solution or are just curious about Firewalla Gold (or any of their other products like Firewalla Purple), we highly recommend giving this one a try. It’s an investment that could very well pay off in the long run thanks to its combination of features, benefits, vast online community, and customer service. Plus, if you do happen to have any issues with your device, Firewalla’s support is top-notch and they offer a decent hardware warranty that will make you feel at ease. They literally take the risk out of delivering you optimal security for your home or business. Grab a Firewalla Gold today!
These five accessories will take your Oculus Quest experience to the next level! From a headband that keeps you cool to a carrying case that protects your device, we’ve got you covered. This is our list and quick reviews of the top five Oculus Quest accessories you need now! If you’re like me, you couldn’t wait to get your hands on one of these bad boys. But once you have it, you may find that there are a few things missing. This VR tech is pretty sweet and alone is still amazing. But adding these accessories is a must-have. Fear not, we’ve got you covered. These are the must-have accessories for any Oculus Quest owner. So without further ado, let’s get started!
What Is The Oculus Quest 2?
The Oculus Quest 2 is the next generation of virtual reality headsets from Oculus (owned by Meta, the same company that owns Facebook). It’s a completely wireless headset, meaning you don’t need to be tethered to a computer or gaming console in order to use it. The Quest 2 also features hand controllers that allow you to interact with the virtual environment in a more natural way. There are games, movies, learning tutorials, and more in this metaverse environment.
Do I Really Need Oculus Quest 2 Accessories?
First off when it comes to tech and gadgets, no one really needs anything. BUT…if you’ve already splurged and got yourself an Oculus Quest, then you definitely need these accessories. We had the Oculus for about a month before we even thought about accessories. Quite frankly, I’m a little excited to see this tech market grow because there are so many ways to enhance the already fascinating VR experiment. Haptic gloves and suits are coming for VR in the future (Can anyone say Hello “Ready Player One”…don’t know that one? Go watch the movie or read something we used to call “a book” 😉 ). Interactive physical environments and motion enhancements are coming. But for now, we’re good with the VR 1.0 accessories. And what we have outlined below is just that.
Just having the Oculus Quest 2 is awesome. But adding just one of these accessories will enhance your experience with this VR device. Not only will these accessories help you have more fun with your device, but they will help take your Oculus Quest sessions to the next level! Why did we choose the following accessories? We chose them for a handful of reasons, but chief among them was because they’re practical, augment the virtual reality experience, and in some cases will help further the life of your device (or until you’re ready to upgrade to the next model).
When you first try on the Oculus, you’ll notice the hardware is a little bit heavy. This will lead to some discomfort, especially after a while of playing. This accessory is great for two reasons: it provides much-needed comfort (even when playing in short stints) and the battery will extend your playtime. The manufacturer claims it will double the time between charges.
What I love about this enhanced strap is the way the battery placement is engineered. It acts as a counter-balance for the VR unit to give users a more comfortable feeling. And that feeling is universal regardless of whether you’re stationary or moving around. At first, when my kids told me to get this, I was a bit skeptical, but after playing with this additional hardware, I’m grateful we got it. It’s easy to adjust (the current default strap takes a while to adjust and get used to). The Elite Strap is definitely one to add to your cart. If there was only one Oculus accessory to buy, this one would be at the top of the list.
At first, I was against getting a carrying case because it would incentivize the kids to take the VR set to their friend’s house, which we didn’t want. For some odd reason, we made it a rule. Probably didn’t want the thing breaking like our first Nintendo Switch did. But we found ourselves taking the Oculus Quest with us on vacations, work trips, and family gatherings. Not having a carrying case was a pain in the butt. We used the box it came in, but it was still awkward and I didn’t want to bang up the box in case we wanted to sell this version when a newer one comes along.
Come to find out, a carrying case is a very useful accessory. This one fits both controllers, the charging adapter and cable, and the headset. It will also hold the Elite Strap we highlighted above, but unfortunately wouldn’t hold the power adapter at the same time. But that’s okay. It features a dual shell for protection, a foam inner lining that absorbs any harsh movements, and it really easy to use. It is a very light piece, but where it lacks in weight it makes up for in protection. Don’t be fooled. For around $50, this was a much-needed upgrade than the plastic grocery sack or cinch-bag we were using to travel with.
Depending on how much you play is going to determine if this is one you should put at the top of your list. We play the Oculus Quest 2 for a moderate amount of time each day and we love this accessory! For starters, it comes with 2 rechargeable batteries for the controllers that the manufacturer claims can be recharged up to 500 times. That’s a lot of gameplay. The other thing I love about this accessory is it keeps the device package tight and organized while no one is playing it.
What are some of the other features and benefits I love about this cool unit:
Ease of use. You literally just place it on the charger and it does its magic.
The kids love it because you can charge all the hardware in about 2 hours. This shaves off about a half-hour versus the standard USB-C charger and cable.
You get an 18-month warranty PLUS the customer service by Anker is decent by accessory standards (I’ve dealt with them in the past with other devices and have been impressed). On that same note, Anker is a reputable brand.
But perhaps the BEST thing is that this docking station will automatically shut off once fully charged. That means you get overcharge protection, so you’ll preserve the battery life of your Oculus Quest unit.
Before you roll your eyes on this one, hear us out. If you’ve ever played the Oculus Quest 2 (especially the boxing games), you know that it doesn’t take much to lose your sense of location. I’ve seen plenty of YouTube videos of people quickly losing their bearings. And that’s probably what I love most about this VR mat. It truly does help you stay centered with your VR play.
Other features and benefits I love about the VR mat:
Has super soft, anti-fatigue memory foam to help with comfort while playing. I played a couple of games without shoes and didn’t slip at all either. And it is very comfortable. In fact, I’d rather play with no shoes on now that we have the VR mat.
Allows you to stay relatively close to a central location. Not everyone has a huge space to play their VR, so this is an important benefit. Aside from the safety issue, staying centered during gameplay is actually an important strategy (the boxing game is an example of this)
This model is 35 inches in diameter which is ample length of most standard gameplay
This specific model was designed specifically for the Oculus Quest 2, but that’s not the main reason why we are including it. The default sound system in the Oculus Quest 2 works perfectly fine. I’ve never run into any issues with it. And it might seem a bit superfluous to recommend headphones for a device that already has decent sound. BUT…little did I know these gaming earphones add an additional layer of augmented virtual reality that is second to none. Sound is a vital (and overlooked) component of VR gaming. It builds the metaverse world around you and allows you to completely immerse yourself into the experience. Outside noise is all but gone and you get direct audio without the outside world’s influence.
Other features and benefits we love about these Oculus Quest 2 earphones:
They’re wired. For now, that is a plus. You can do wireless, but I didn’t like the results. I’ve tried two different models and there’s like a half-second (at least) audio lag that is just bothersome and hard to get over. Wired headphones, such as these, for now, are clearly the best option. This model has a 3.5 mm connection with has minimal latency for high-quality sound.
Save on battery life. The same concept with smartphone audio. I earned an extra 10-15% more battery power once I started using wireless earbuds with my smartphone. Without having done any official test on the Oculus Quest 2 yet, what I’ve learned from other devices is that default audio from a device will use roughly around 10% of battery power in a normal run of battery usage. We did notice a slight improvement in battery life using these.
Comfort and durability. There are multiple silicone tips to help you find the right comfort option. And the aluminum shell in the housing of these makes them not only look great but provides a lot of protection.
Customized experience. You can adjust the length of the cables for a custom length you want. You don’t have to worry about cords flopping around everywhere and getting in the way.
Sound quality. The sound is crisp, clear, and I love the bass level. It’s not over-powering, but it’s there at just the right level to help add to the premium sound. I noticed a massive improvement in gaming experience when it came to sound with Beat Saber
Oculus Quest 2 Accessories Will Empower Your VR Experience!
If you’re looking for ways to enhance your Oculus Quest 2 experience, then consider purchasing some of these great accessories. The strap will help keep you comfortable during long VR sessions. The carrying case will protect your device from any bumps or scratches. The charging dock will ensure that your device is always ready to go. And the Vr mat will provide a more comfortable gaming experience. Plus, the earphones add an extra layer of augmented reality that takes your VR game to the next level. So don’t wait – buy these accessories today and enjoy all the benefits they have to offer!
Firewalla Purple is a device that can help you monitor your home network and keep your kids safe while connected online. I usually don’t all-in on products with so much fervor, but Firewalla Purple is the best device for monitoring your home network. Period.
Our Quick Thoughts On Firewalla Purple
Pros: A very effective piece of hardware for monitoring your home network. You get incredible support and protection from cyber-attacks. We love that this device is small and you can take it with you on the go. Up to 1 Gbps speed so you won’t notice a lag on your network. Blocks ads. Has safe search. Geo-IP filtering. It is easy to use and easy to install.
Cons: Although we didn’t find installing and using Firewalla Purple to be too complex, we can understand how some entry-level users could experience a little bit of learning fatigue with this piece of hardware. But that’s normal. Most people would avoid this by spending 15-20 minutes to learn and understand how to install Purple properly and leverage all the cool features it has to offer. During the review, we couldn’t find anything of negative value about Firewalla Purple.
Verdict: If you want to get serious about monitoring and protecting your home network, Firewalla Purple should be on your radar (should be in your cart). This clever and innovative device gives you all the visibility, control, and protection that a premium hardware firewall device should.
Have you ever been worried about your kids’ safety online? Let’s be real, if you’re like me, it’s always on the mind. Here’s the problem: As a parent, you want to keep your kids safe while they’re online. But it’s not always easy to know what they’re up to, or if they’re being cyber-bullied, or if they’re being good digital citizens, and all that nasty stuff they’re exposed to. You’re also probably a little concerned about what’s coming and out of your home through the internet and their devices. What are you supposed to do? Let’s talk about Firewalla Purple.
It can help you keep your kids safe while they’re online by giving you a real-time view of all the devices on your network. You can see what websites they’re visiting, and even block access to certain ones. You can even block specific social media services or block them all, and on top of that you can block them per device, group of devices or all devices.
With Firewalla Purple, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your kids are safe online. You’ll be able to see what they’re doing and protect them from any harmful content. Plus, it’s easy to set up and use, so there’s no need to worry about complicated instructions. It’s the best device for monitoring your home network, and we wanted to offer a comprehensive review of this really sweet product every home should have.
Firewalla Purple Is The Solution For Monitoring Your Home Network
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think too much about your home network security. You might have a firewall installed on your computer, and maybe you’ve even got a router with some basic security features enabled. Perhaps you have an app to help you as well. But beyond that, you probably don’t give it much thought.
That’s a mistake. Your home network is vulnerable to attacks from hackers, cyber thieves, and other criminals. Get used to it. These nefarious individuals are a normal occurrence in the digital world and they’re never going away. If your data is compromised, the consequences can be disastrous. Identity theft, financial theft, and a list of other problems will greet you in life. And it ain’t fun.
Trying to protect your kiddo’s? You can either block porn sites or if by chance they find a new adult site, Firewalla analyzes the site and sends you an alarm right away that tells you “Johnny is watching porn”. In this regard, Firewalla Purple is a proactive monitor for your home network and your family.
Firewalla Purple Features We Love…
Firewalla Purple is the solution for monitoring your home network security. It’s a powerful firewall and intrusion detection system that will protect your data and keep you and your family safe online. A few of my favorite features of this new Firewalla launch are that it acts as a firewall, has 1 Gigabit deep packet inspection hardware (that’s a lot!), and has content and policy-based routing. Other features worth mentioning is:
Built-in VPN server and VPN Client (for secure browsing and streaming, encrypts your data)
Router and Transparent Bridge Mode (which syncs seamlessly with your existing hardware)
Has 16GB of onboard storage
Is small and compact (easy to travel with) – 9x6x3cm
Some of you won’t exactly know what all of this is, but for the geeks out there…you’re probably nodding a big “heck yeah”. What do these features mean? How do they benefit you (because that’s what you really care about)?
Many of you won’t know all of that technobabble geek-talk and that’s okay. Gigabit deep packet inspection? I hear you! What you care about is how those features are going to benefit you! Here are some of the benefits of the Firewalla Purple that you should be excited about:
Firewalla Purple will keep your devices and data safe from cyberattacks
Firewalla Purple will monitor and control internet usage of every device connected to your network
This cool little hardware device is going to block ads, enhance your ability to be an effective parent in the digital world, and give you the most important and advanced insights into your network. You can geek out on those insights (if you’re like me) or make them as simple to understand. Purple does it all. Oh…and NO MONTHLY FEES!
Did we mention that Firewalla Purple has built-in Wi-Fi so you can have all of this protection on the go! Staying in a hotel for a week with the family? Maybe staying at Nana’s for the holidays? Perhaps in another country on a work trip? You still get all of these awesome features, benefits, and protection.
Firewalla Purple is the piece of hardware that will make you feel secure knowing your home network is protected. And that’s what matters most to me.
How Do I Install Firewalla Purple
Firewalla has come a long way in making the setup and installation of its products easy. First, you’ll want to download the Firewalla app (it’s supported by Apple and Android), plug in the device to its power source (power code provided ~ sad we have to worry about power supply cords being provided with products nowadays), plug in your connections ethernet cord, and follow the step-by-step setup instructions on the app.
Firewalla Purple Help/Support
For a company that got their start leveraging crowd-funding for their products, their level of Help and Support is phenomenal. I was impressed by the development and innovation of their products, but the way their support has evolved and improved over the years is nothing short of impressive.
Their support services includes a help center, a community (and I have a lot of useful information there), router compatibility look up, install guides, user manuals, app download helps, troubleshooting guides, and your basic contact help support tickets.
Firewalla Warranties
We love brands that stand behind their products. That is a hallmark trait that is important to us. Firewalla’s warranty fulfills on that promise. All Firewalla hardware (Purple included) is backed by a limited one year manufacturer’s warranty. In the scope of hardware devices, a one year warranty is pretty good. Now, this doesn’t mean you can beat the crap out of the device. It is a Limited Warranty under normal use and service. They also have a decent return policy as well (30 days), but if you don’t buy directly from Firewalla (like Amazon, Indiegogo, or another reseller) you will have to follow those store policies on returns and refunds.
If you’re a parent with kids who have devices, you need to be monitoring your home network security. If you’re not, time to get serious about it. And Firewalla Purple is a great place to start. Firewalla Purple is the solution for monitoring your home network security and it’s packed with features that will protect your data and keep your family safe online. With 16GB of onboard storage, this little hardware device is small and compact, and easy to travel with. It also has built-in Wi-Fi so you can have all of this protection on the go! Keep yourself and your family safe online and grab a Firewalla Purple. If you want to…
Keep your devices and data safe from cyberattacks
Monitor and control internet usage of every device connected to your network
Block ads and enhance your ability to be an effective parent in the digital world
Get real-time insights into your network that you can geek-out on or make simple to understand
…Firewalla Purple is going to be your best friend.
As a parent with kids who have devices, you’re always worried about their safety online. You want to monitor their internet usage and keep them safe from cyberattacks, but it’s hard to do that when you don’t know how to use the technology yourself. You feel like you’re behind the curve and your kids are always one step ahead of you. At least that’s how I feel! I know you feel the same way. They know more about how to use the internet and stay safe than you do. They’re pre-wired for this technology. But we’re pre-wired in our ability to know that we need to help protect them. Firewalla Purple helps us with those noble intentions. Firewalla Purple is the solution for monitoring your home network security and it’s packed with features that will protect your data and keep your family safe online.
