Configuration Settings
Configuration Settings
Hi everyone. I'm new to routers but have been searching for a better one since my current ISP model lacks sufficient coverage. I've been checking out "Best Routers of 2022" lists, and many recommend the TP-Link AX55 for its value. Is this a solid choice for my situation? Are there other options that might suit me better? My budget is around 350 NZD (about 220 USD), and I'm planning a house of roughly 100 square meters. The router is in a corner and has to travel across the property. Current speeds are 50 downloads and 20 uploads, but I expect an upgrade to 300 downloads and 100 uploads soon. My main needs are video streaming at 1080p (and higher later) and gaming.
TP-Link WiFi 6 AX3000 Smart Router (Archer AX50) – High-performance 802.11ax device, supports Gigabit speeds, dual-band operation, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, parental controls, built-in HomeCare, compatible with Alexa, rated as the best budget router for Wi-Fi 6.
I checked it too, but many reviews noted problems with the router getting too hot and sometimes overheating. From what I know, the AX55 is a newer model that doesn’t have these overheating issues. I’m willing to pay a bit more for better reliability. Appreciate your response.
It seems you're likely using a modem/router package. Based on the connection speeds, it looks like you have either DSL or coax internet. If your DSL is connected directly to the device, it's a combo; if your coax internet connects straight to the box, it's also a combo. For a combo setup, verify that it supports bridge mode or IP pass-through functionality. This will disable the router part and let you use your own router without double NAT. Prices can vary by region. WiFi 6 is becoming more common now. With my Synology RT 2600AC in a 1300 sq ft home, I have consistent coverage throughout. My router isn't at the farthest end but still positioned well. I don’t always get full speeds everywhere, though the available speeds work for our needs. If you can raise the router higher, it might improve signal reach. Since your house is wood and drywall, dense materials like brick or concrete will block WiFi signals.
Believe it or not, this is a fiber connection, we just didn't upgrade our speeds from using VDSL, as the cost was too high, and it was surplus to our needs. As I said, I'm new to the whole networking thing, so I'm not entirely certain how to differentiate between a modem and a router. This is the unit we have. It's listed as a modem, but it acts as a router, so could be a combo unit? It connects to a box on the wall, that's where the internet line comes in from outside. I have borrowed a router from my mate before ( This Linksys unit ), and the range was way better than anything the ISP has provided. That's from 2015-2016, so my logic is that a new router will provide even better range, or at least better than our ISP unit. We can't elevate it much more than it already is. Our house has a wood and drywall interior, so that shouldn't be too bad. The router in my original post just seems to be good value for money. Yes it offers higher speeds than what we need, but that's exactly what I want, I don't want to run into a bottleneck further down the line. Also a good thing to note is that our house doesn't have ethernet run through it like some houses do.
Technically it functions as a combined unit. When it includes both modem and router capabilities plus a combo setup, it often features an integrated DSL modem. It also provides an Ethernet port for WAN use. This setup means your ISP uses one device for various internet services, which is typical. I believe the wall-mounted box acts as your ONT, similar to a modem, converting the ISP connection into an Ethernet link you can utilize. The challenge you’ll face is connecting two routers together, which may cause double NAT issues. You might want to try disabling the ISP’s Wi-Fi and installing a wireless access point instead.
They really charged a premium? I used to pay around 199 for that 3-pack of the 3 puck pack. Seems like it hasn’t changed much: Google Nest WiFi - AC2200 (2nd Gen) Router plus Add On Access Point Mesh Wi-Fi System (3-Pack, Snow). https://a.co/d/j2OjX9s In the US at least. There’s a newer pro version, but these 2nd gen models work just fine. My parents still use Gen 1’s without any problems, and they have two Gen 1’s plus one Gen 2 at home.