Initial Connection Effort
Initial Connection Effort
Hello everyone, newcomers here but keeping up with the videos for quite some time. This winter I’m aiming to strengthen our network so we can reduce outages, improve signal quality, and boost overall performance. Our current ISP is Mediacom Communications, offering a 100m down and 10m up plan. The supplied modem works with a Netgear R6220 range, which is fine but far behind what it used to be with older routers and slower connections. Still, the main issue seems to be occasional nighttime outages—usually after midday through early morning. I’m unsure if this is due to the ISP or just our outdated gear.
Upgrading would help, especially since we’re dealing with many overlapping networks these days. The biggest challenge is that service tends to drop during the night. I’m considering a complete network refresh: relocating all data equipment and distribution under the stairs in the basement. A new quad RG6 would run from the main intake to a 2-way splitter feeding the modem, then an 8-way splitter on the secondary line for room coverage.
I plan to run Cat6 cables to areas that need them. Since the house has three levels including the basement, the closet should be under the stairs there—housing the modem, switch, and router. Access points would be placed on each level and one in the basement, all connected via PoE for simplicity.
I’m seeking guidance on setting this up: should I install a main router in the basement, or is that necessary? What tools are most commonly used, and what connectors do people prefer? If possible, I’d like to use Greenlee or Ideal brand equipment. Thanks for any advice—this project is budget-focused, so I’ll keep that in mind.
Also, what software or hardware suggestions do you have? Any recommendations for a full-home system with either a base and three nodes or three nodes plus a current router already in place? I’m planning to add a NAS soon.
ISP is performing maintenance during this period since few users are active. You can verify if the issue stems from a service problem by examining your signal strength on the modem. However, I’m leaning toward it being a routine maintenance task; if there’s a signal concern, the problem should occur consistently. Remember to have your router ready before switching. The device provided by the ISP functions as both a gateway and a router—this is just a standard cable modem.
There seems to be a recurring issue with service drops, especially around 6-9 PM. It’s frustrating to pay for something that fails when needed. My Thomson DHG574 modem is working fine, but I’m unsure about other options. If you have another modem or router, it would be helpful. Alternatively, I can stick with what I have if it meets basic requirements. Also, I’m not sure if a base station is necessary for the Wi-Fi signal.
Docsis 3.1 modems can be bought from various retailers. You can find them at stores like Best Buy, Frys, or Microcenter. Prices are around $200 for a modem alone. If you need help checking your signal quality or understanding your ISP’s service, consider reaching out to your provider—they should clarify any issues affecting your connection. Keep in mind that heavy network traffic during peak times can also cause problems.