Here are some router suggestions:
Here are some router suggestions:
Hello, welcome! I understand you're working on upgrading your r7000 to a newer router with Wi-Fi 6 capability. You're looking for parental controls that restrict network access to specific times without a subscription fee. You also want strong, stable connections for both wired and wireless setups. So far, the reviews for the ASUS RT-AX88U and AX6000 have mentioned reliability issues. Could you share more details or consider other options? Thanks for your patience.
Yes, the router should include built-in Wi-Fi for easy connectivity.
Here’s a concise breakdown:
- Required speed for the task
- Square footage needed to cover your wife’s area
- Various gadgets available to evaluate options
- Need to filter out ineffective solutions
I don't believe my wife would enjoy me breaking it down in square footage, XD. Let's keep it light. The place is about 3000 sqft. I plan to have three TVs, two game consoles, and two PCs connected via a wired network. Around ten wireless devices will be scattered throughout the house. My Wi-Fi doesn't need to cover two blocks; if coverage is a problem, I'll add more access points—preferably just one router for now.
If budget isn't the main concern, the Unifi Dream Machine stands out. I really enjoyed it when I owned one. The only thing it doesn’t verify is Wi-Fi 6 (as far as I understand). It comes at a higher price, but it includes a USG, a 4x4 MIMO Wi-Fi, an internal gigabit switch, and offers smooth integration with future upgrades. If cost becomes a challenge, the D-Link EXO Mesh is a solid alternative—it’s about a third of the price, though it may have some coverage limitations.
I have two configurations I can reference for useful insights: one is my personal system in a compact living space, and the other is my parents' installation I assisted previously. In the first setup, I use a PFSENSE device (actually just a motherboard and power supply mounted on a storage unit) as my router/firewall and a R7000p in AP mode. It functions excellently. PFSENSE offers robust features and free software, with dark mode among other nice touches. The second setup involved an Ubiquiti EdgeRouter X I helped install and a TP-Link EAP AC1750 for their access point. This configuration suits everyday home use, handling regular internet traffic efficiently. For a modest PC with decent specs, it’s more than sufficient without extra expense. I’m not very familiar with the AP itself, but it performs adequately for basic needs. The EdgeRouter X runs smoothly on Debian if you want deeper customization, though older models may struggle with heavy loads. It includes a built-in switch, which is rare in many motherboards. The EAP access point works well, enabling seamless handoff to a dedicated controller or a PC running the software (ideally in a VM). Overall, performance remains strong even during multiple simultaneous streams and streaming sessions. Coverage reached about 3000 sqft with just one unit, supporting over 50mbps in distant rooms. In short, PFSENSE is ideal for demanding scenarios, while the EdgeRouter X suits lighter home environments. I highly recommend the TP-Link EAP series if you’re targeting Wi-Fi 6, but that’s still uncertain for most regions.
I remember Netgear as a solid choice in the past. I don’t have details on their latest products or Wi-Fi 6 support, but they were known for being dependable.