Build a straightforward router that avoids the spooky spider vibe.
Build a straightforward router that avoids the spooky spider vibe.
You're searching for a straightforward router instead of the usual complex models. You want something simple with a clean design, not a bulky or flashy device. It should have WiFi 6, be easy to set up, and avoid unnecessary features like mesh networking. You're open to options that won't require a lot of ports or future-proofing, especially since you live in an apartment. The price shouldn’t be too high, and you don’t need long reboot times or complicated installation.
It's about the functionality rather than appearance. In a compact space like an apartment, hiding it in a closet or utility room makes sense. You're balancing several priorities: speed, cost, and features. A Gigabit router with many LAN ports sounds good, but it should be affordable. A PFSense device—either custom or ready-made—paired with a Wi-Fi access point would work well. For a single access point in an apartment, that's usually sufficient. If you need more ports, a switch is acceptable. Building your own gives you control over the software, which can simplify things.
I’m finding it tough to figure this out. Storing the device in a closet would mean either heavy in-wall wiring, which my landlord probably wouldn’t like, or lots of cables popping out from under the door. The most sensible place I can think of is on the bookshelf next to my desk. I’m not paying attention to you right now. Which options are you recommending? In the end, I’m okay with a solution that looks decent enough, even if it’s a bit tricky. My networking knowledge is pretty limited, and I’m not sure this would be practical for someone like me. But since my budget is flexible, I could consider splurging a bit more for something simpler and nicer. The Ubiquiti model is a bit pricey, but I was actually open to paying more if it wasn’t unavailable.
The issue with a mesh system is that it appears appealing but may not be practical for everyday use. You might find an affordable version that looks good, yet you hesitate to try it out due to its appearance. Just because it includes a main unit and satellites doesn’t mean you need both—opt for the base alone and store the satellites separately. You can keep it on your shelf or desk without needing the full setup. Good luck!
I suggest the Netgear WAX206. It works well for wireless PCVR streaming without issues. Its appearance gives it a professional look, which was a key factor in my decision. The device features four 4 Gbit LAN ports and a 2.5 Gbit WAN port, plus WiFi 6 support. I’ve tracked its outbound traffic and noticed it only connects to Netgear’s site to check for firmware updates every five minutes—something you might want to restrict with a Pi-Hole if desired.
This raises serious doubts about their system, clearly it shouldn't exceed an hourly limit or operate more efficiently each day.
Not really, it would still look like some switches wired together. It's the reason my stuff is in a utility room on a small rack. I know one thing I used to do was mount my router behind TV with just the antennas above it, pretty much kept it hidden. Perhaps an idea to hide it? My last router before switching to pfsense was Amplfi Alien which is also from Ubquiti, it's not bad looking, and no external antennas. It's usually easily obtainable. Might be worth a peak?
I understand the request is for straightforward advice, but I can't push routers that come with built-in Wi-Fi. In my view, these products are generally low-quality and packed with trade-offs. Opt for a separate firewall or router and pair it with a dedicated Wi-Fi access point. If you must use a built-in solution, consider a Firewall/Router combo and set up the WAP separately. Budget options are plentiful—anything that supports OpenNMS is a solid pick. MicroTik is an excellent option, even used models like Edgerouter 10x work well. A Wi-Fi 6 access point is available for under $100, with choices like Ubiquiti Lites and TPLink. Once you expand your setup to include separate devices, your options improve significantly and you can enjoy fewer compromises.
Well, strictly speaking, nothing. But isn't it weird and wasteful to pay for 2-3 devices and only use one? It'd kinda feel like buying a whole PC just to harvest the graphics card out of it. Like, if that's truly the best option, I can do it, but... That does look fine! A bit on the pricey side, but not absolutely crazy. Though that thing about checking for updates every 5 minutes hardly sounds sensible to me. Also, it says access point. Won't I be missing some functionality? I really wish I could find something simple. I'm an absolute newbie at networking, and both energy (mine) and space are in short supply. I get what you're saying, I really do, but as long as they aren't completely unreasonable, I can do with a few compromises. The more I think about it, the more the thought of fiddling to DIY a solution makes me feel bad. I'm sorry; I really don't think I'll be able to follow your advice. That looks okay! But sadly it doesn't seem like they sell it in Canada for whatever reason. I'm sorry for the delayed answers, everyone! Notifications still don't work, and I forgot all about the router thing until it died on me again today.