Here are some router ideas:
Here are some router ideas:
Exploring options for a fresh router is a good idea. Your current Netgear Nighthawk from 2016 paired with Comcast’s modem might benefit from modern features like meshing. It can enhance performance and stability. Some routers that support meshing include models from TP-Link, Netgear, and Ubiquiti, which often offer better connectivity and quality for streaming or gaming.
Mesh system offers a clean design but is most useful when you have ample space and own the property you’re expanding into. This advice comes from ensuring each connection point is firmly secured. Before suggesting a router, we need some details: How many users or gadgets will be connected? What internet rates do you currently use? What activities do you engage in on Wi-Fi—gaming, streaming, etc.? Approximate room size matters. Do you require coverage outside the building? How many floors are involved? What construction materials are used? Are you primarily using Ethernet or Wi-Fi? Or a combination of both? Edit: this should be clear, but we also need to understand your budget.
11 Devices offers 800 Mbps down and 20 Mbps up for gaming, streaming, etc. Sufficient for basic use on the porch. Two-story home with wood and brick walls. Primarily Wi-Fi, but my PC connects via cable. Could add a PS5 over cable too. At least two Ethernet connections are available. Budget around $500 for this setup.
Are you really requiring a fresh router? It seems your existing one meets all your requirements.
The only adjustments I can suggest is to restrict the power if you don’t wish it to extend beyond your home boundaries and switch off the ID broadcast. It doesn’t guarantee complete safety but adds some extra irritation. These aren’t strong security features, though—they might deter occasional pranksters. I wouldn’t consider them serious protection, but they can be a bit of a deterrent. It’s essentially about making it harder for casual intruders to get in. I’m not sure what your router’s specs are (I didn’t bother looking, honestly), but generally, you’ll find the main stuff like 2.4GHz and 5GHz, plus features such as A, B, G, N, AC, and X. Most systems use either 2.4GHz or 5GHz, sometimes both at once. The 2.4GHz offers wider coverage but less speed, while 5GHz provides faster data but weaker reach. Older models often included B and G together (both 5MHz) because interference was minimal, though it could be better occasionally. N is the newest, with more advanced options. A tends to be rare since B and G were cheaper to produce, so you’re unlikely to have any of those. Since Wi-Fi works on radio waves, signal strength depends on your setup—typically the best range comes from the ceiling of a two-story home in the center. In reality, walls, furniture, and other signals can block it. You might need to move around your phone while checking strength. The broadcast power is limited by the FCC; you can increase it, but doing so violates U.S. law unless you have a license. It’s often possible to lower it below legal limits, which can be helpful. If your Wi-Fi struggles to pass through house walls, it won’t work outside your home. Personally, I live in a thick stucco wall with few openings—windows and doors only. That makes me feel like I’m inside a poor Faraday cage. Even worse, cell signals are already weak here. The real defense is encryption; WPA3 is the best, but WEP is outdated and easily cracked. There are open-source router options that offer more features than basic models, which can improve compatibility. You’ll find guides on matching routers to devices if you want more options. Updated June 10, 2023 – Bombastinator
Mesh connects access points via Wi-Fi to broaden your signal range. It works well when running Ethernet isn't feasible, though wired connections remain superior. Ubiquiti offers mesh support across its devices. Various all-in-one options exist like the Ubiquiti AmpliFi, Eero, and Nest. Why are you considering an upgrade? Faster speeds or better coverage?
Currently the router isn't causing any problems. Considering its age, I'm concerned it could fail eventually. Our home business depends on internet, and since cell service is weak, we rely on Wi-Fi for both browsing and calls. We just installed a new modem, which made me wonder if our old router might slow down performance. It's more about avoiding potential problems than meeting current demands.
@Hydraengineer You didn't mention the Netgear Nighthawk model you're using earlier. I've had a solid experience with the R7000. My family's other models from that lineup seemed just as reliable. Even though I never connected to the internet, I heard it could reach gigabit speeds via WAN-to-LAN through Ethernet ports—considered impressive for its age. The newer generation hasn't lived up to expectations either. I upgraded only when I needed improved Wi-Fi range and additional capabilities. Every device can fail unexpectedly. However, maintaining a cool and clean environment should extend its lifespan significantly. No immediate replacement is necessary. If you're looking for extra features, consider third-party firmware like DD-WRT and FreshTomato to enhance its performance.
If it’s a N router yes. If it’s AC though it still offers enough current security. One of the key questions is whether it supports secure login encryption. WEP (1) I’m not sure if it’s secure. I don’t recall if it’s WPA2 or WPA3 that provides strong protection. This applies to most Wi-Fi setups in your home. Many inexpensive or outdated devices lack sufficient power to transmit signals outside your house, which could create vulnerabilities. Now if you’re experiencing issues or want added capabilities, updating might be worthwhile. If not and your router meets your requirements and security needs, I don’t see a strong reason to upgrade. A solid modern Wi-Fi router isn’t particularly affordable. I spent only $100 and would have liked more advanced features.