Consider a business-grade older Netgear gigabit router.
Consider a business-grade older Netgear gigabit router.
I need a router compatible with my network setup. I currently have a Spectrum fiber modem and Netgear ProSAFE GS-105 switches, but I require a router to connect to the modem. The modem isn't functional with just the switches, so a router is essential. I prefer a wired solution without wireless capabilities, aiming for a newer business-class model with gigabit speed, 4-5 ports, and a metal casing similar to the switches. I'm unsure which models to choose. Could anyone suggest suitable options? I'm considering buying a used one from eBay but want to avoid filtering out wireless routers. Any guidance would be appreciated. Thanks.
In numerous situations a consumer router could turn out to be superior. It really comes down to how you define a "business" router.
Most routers from Cisco or Juniper come equipped with many features that you probably never utilize, yet you still pay for them. These devices are typically built for internal company use or for handling complex routing tasks linked to big commercial internet connections.
Of course, there exist so-called small business routers, but many of these are essentially consumer models with a significantly higher price but limited functionality.
What specific feature matters most?
The main advantage of a consumer router is its built-in NAT capability, which enables high-speed traffic handling even above 1gbit. Using a CPU chip for this purpose yields much better performance, whereas relying on software can drastically reduce throughput.
However, certain advanced features require processing power that hardware cannot provide. This is where commercial routers shine due to their stronger CPU resources. Be sure to check the details carefully, as some so-called commercial models fall short of true 1gbit performance.
Ultimately, it still hinges on your precise requirements.
I need something durable for ongoing use. Probably meant commercial grade, not just business, and should include the NAT feature. The switches performed well until adding a fifth computer caused modem limits, preventing all devices from connecting simultaneously.
MikroTik routers are quite secure, though setting them up can be more challenging.
Ubiquiti UniFI offers the simplest configuration but is mainly aimed at small businesses instead of homes.
I currently use an entirely UniFI setup at home.
The switches have performed well until adding a fifth computer, after which connectivity issues arose because of modem limitations. What kind of restrictions are present? Where are you encountering them? Additional information would help. Would replacing the fifth computer with another functional one resolve the problem? How are all devices linked? It might be a network loop forming... Please verify all device IP addresses (both static and DHCP) together with their subnet masks.
Spectrum ISP === fiber ===> [Fiber port] Modem [Ethernet port LAN] ---- Ethernet cable --->
ProSafe 105 Switch
------ Ethernet cables ----- > ProSafe 105 Switches -----> 105 switch>1 computer AND >105 switch>2 computers AND > 100Mbps router>2 computers.
The modem is located outside the road, about 150 feet away.
Ethernet cable to the first 105 switch, 320 feet
Ethernet cable to another 105 switch with three connections, one to another 105 switch for two computers, one to a single computer, and one to a 100Mbps router with two computers.
I can only connect 3 or 4 computers at the same time, depending on whether the router is active. I think the modem assigns MAC addresses and can only manage three devices. I contacted Spectrum tech support who advised me to use a router after the modem, not a switch.
I changed the computers and they all connected if they were among the first three to boot, but never all at once.
I did not consider that and likely wouldn't have imagined it.
My reasoning was: Service ---> Modem ---- Router ---> Switches ----> 4 computers/network devices – works fine
and
Service ---> Modem ---- Router ---> Switches ----> 5 computers/network devices – Device 5 is not functioning properly
If the goal requires a fifth public IP address, it presents a different challenge than I initially thought.
Router after Modem.
I anticipate the path should follow modem → router → switches.
If the modem's router capabilities are turned off and the router manages network IP addresses, that works.
Are there 7 computers confirmed?
Other network devices: NAS, printers, IoT gadgets, etc.?
= = = =
Another issue is the possible distances involved.
320 feet fits within the 328-foot (100 meters) limit.
What about the remaining distances?
The quality of cable, connections, patch panels, ports, etc., are important.
Draw a diagram to illustrate the overall layout.
That means showing the network topology.
And I should trace the wires to confirm there are no network loops.
Edit – some text was lost.
In summary, if my understanding is right, swap the router to the position of the first switch and move that switch to where the router was.
But keep in mind any further posts with questions or suggestions.
Please be sure there are no missed or incorrect details.
OP might have some misunderstandings. He can simply purchase a Wi-Fi router, turn off the Wi-Fi part, and gain more options. It doesn’t matter if the router comes without Wi-Fi.
What are the "business" features OP seeks that a home or plastic case router can’t offer?
There are already many home routers with a wide range of features that exceed what older metal case "business" routers provide.
OP definitely needs a NAT router, and all home routers function as NAT routers.
Why is OP using long Ethernet cables and cascading switches? Are the computers situated far apart in different buildings?