Choose a wireless router or access point compatible with your new cable modem from Spectrum.
Choose a wireless router or access point compatible with your new cable modem from Spectrum.
Location: United States Budget: $100 or more if essential for a solid setup. Required: split CAT to under a dozen wired devices and offer Wifi up to 2000ft. Current setup: AT&T DSL with an AT&T router that has both the wired access point and modem. We have an 8-port switch for all CAT connections. The house is mostly wired with around ten devices hardwired; the router supports IP access and allows guest networks, 2.4/5GHz support. We plan to switch to Spectrum cable internet for 200 Mbit speeds. We prefer not to rent equipment and only need a modem. The new modem is expected next week; it may have just one CAT port, so I need to confirm we can still manage all cabling and WiFi. The wireless point is only for devices needing internet access, not for direct phone calls over the network. We currently have a combined ATT modem/router/WiFi unit at the building entrance, which provides limited coverage. Ideally, we’d want stronger WiFi or a more central router inside the home. Questions about the hardwired side: - Should I install a router, or can the passive switch handle routing to the modem? - If not, would an active switch be better to avoid a router altogether? - Would a more robust switch help if we don’t have many devices? For WiFi: - Is a basic access point sufficient for internet use, or do I need a full router? - Should I connect the router to a CAT outlet after the switch for better coverage in the house? Questions about Wifi features: - For just browsing and streaming, is a simple access point enough, or should I add a router? - Can I set up a guest network safely with good range for a 2,000ft space? - Would you recommend specific models or capabilities? We mostly purchase from Newegg or Amazon, but open to other suppliers as long as delivery arrives soon.
A router is essential. Many cable providers offer AT&T modem routers as a package. Interestingly, Spectrum remains the only US cable company still supplying standard cable modems. Whether one device suffices depends on your home’s wireless setup—like the number of Wi-Fi access points nearby and other devices using the same frequency—as well as your home’s construction materials (wood, drywall, brick, concrete, etc.). You’ll probably need to purchase and test a device. An ASUS router with AI mesh might be worth considering; if coverage is lacking, you can add another with AI mesh to create a mesh network. I personally recommend the Synology RT 2600AC, though it exceeds your budget. From a feature standpoint, ensure it includes wireless AC support.
Thanks for the feedback. We currently have only ATT (25Mbit) and Spectrum (200Mbit+) options. To be honest, the AT&T built-in router isn't great for Wi-Fi—it drops out even when close. I've swapped it for a new one every few years, which sometimes fixes issues temporarily but creates new ones. When AT&T replaced us with a new unit, it was already two years old. It seems they might move problematic routers between customers. I’d prefer to own my own device. Spectrum offers rentals for $5 a month, but I’d rather buy one and manage it myself. It looks like they provide a router for rent, but I’d rather install my own. That Synology costs $200. If it offers better performance, I’m willing to invest that amount. I notice the feature list suggests larger antennas. How does that compare to a $100 Netgear/Linksys? Are bigger antennas really the key advantage, or does it help with range and security? Also, what brands should I avoid? Any additional questions?
I've heard some negative feedback about Netgear's software and Linksys hasn't been useful for a long time. They've changed hands several times now. I chose Synology because it felt like the best fit at that moment. I needed wireless AC, something with decent firmware, and reliable hardware that could manage moderate traffic. By the way, Synology supports Gigabit internet since most routers struggle with NAT at those speeds. Still, a $100 device might work too. My internet speed is 200 Mbps with Comcast, though I think their network performs better than others in my area. We have about 1300 square feet to cover with the router, located on the second floor, reaching the backyard and side areas. That's convenient if you want connectivity outside your home, but security-wise it supports WPA3. However, finding older devices that support that standard is tough. In my opinion, most routers can handle 200 Mbps, but problems arise at Gigabit speeds. That's something to consider. I tend to wait for standards to develop fully before buying, and also account for future tech taxes. Belkin is a solid choice, with brands like ASUS, Netgear, Ubiquiti, Mikrotik, and setting up a pfSense box being popular. From what I've read, Netgear's software isn't great, while Ubiquiti is more suited for DIY users who need to add a wireless AP separately. Mikrotik has good reviews but is mostly for hobbyists, and TPLink is affordable but targets budget buyers.
I chose the Asus RT-AX56U over the Synology because it arrived two years later and offers a quad-core processor, making it seem more modern. The price difference of $146 is worth it for the newer specs.
AX represents the latest development. However, the specifications aren't fully approved yet. I'm holding off on WiFi6E or Wireless AX at 6 GHz, since they're introducing a new frequency. I'll wait for the release to assess performance. Remember, older gadgets still use AC and possibly wireless N. The truth is, when WiFi 4 came out I took a year or two to switch. With WiFi 5, I was a bit behind. Over the years prices dropped, routers improved, and the standard evolved. I won't buy WiFi 6 for another year just to let everything stabilize, enhance the software, and add better features. While a WiFi 6 router might offer some gains, full advantages will appear only when all devices support it. It'll take a few years before that happens.
I understand, I wouldn't rush into an upgrade just to have the latest. It seems most phones or ChromeBooks likely don't support the newer standards either. I discovered a solid deal on the Asus RT-AX300, which will arrive Monday. I'm excited about it. Back in the day, I was the one who bought a $50 router (and let's not forget the AT&T one). Thanks for the tip!
Another idea. I wanted to buy another router to use as a wireless repeater to place the at the opposite side of my house. and if the actual router fails, i have a backup right away. (With 2 people working from home and a kid virtual schooling, I can't afford days to wait for the new router). Maybe thsi is overkill if the router never fails, but a few days without internet for 3 people cost more than a router. Is there any good reason to buy the exact smae router? Or would a cheaper one work equally as well without harmstrining the better router features? I found this Asus AX 1800 for $110 that also has the air mesh, AX, and WAP3
It's incorrect. To allow several devices to connect to your internet, you require a router since it handles NAT. This applies to both wired and wireless setups.