Instability in pings occurs frequently.
Instability in pings occurs frequently.
While quarantined, I've observed my internet speed fluctuating, likely due to multiple devices using the same connection. I'm trying to improve stability but can't set up a separate ISP router. Would purchasing a dedicated router for personal use resolve these problems?
It won't work. Consider using powerline adapters or upgrading your ISP modem and router if needed.
It depends on your current setup. A new router can improve stability if you're experiencing issues, but it might not help if the problem lies elsewhere.
What device connects your internet? If you don’t mind running Ethernet directly, a basic unmanaged gigabit switch works well. The advantages are: lower expense, no setup required, and a dependable fast wired link. For adding Wi-Fi, switch it to access point mode so it doesn’t conflict with your main gateway. This lets you support both wired and wireless devices. Amazon often offers affordable unmanaged 5 or 8-port switches from brands like Netgear and TP-Link for less than $20. Just connect the right length of Cat5e cable and arrange everything accordingly.
I proposed a setup needing a physical link between devices. The gateway needs a printed label somewhere. While doing that, perform a wireless scan with WiFi Analyzer. Share the screenshots from the ‘Networks’ and ‘Analyze’ sections. The analysis part should show both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands (if present).
@BenO We still don’t know what device you’re using as your gateway. If you own PLUSNET—your setup includes both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi signals—access the gateway’s admin panel (webUI), go to the Wireless controls, and adjust these settings: For the 2.4GHz unit, choose channel 6 or 11 to avoid interference from your HP printer. With the 5GHz unit, if the channel width is 40MHz, pick a number between 36-40 or 149-161. If you can widen it to 80MHz, select channels 149-161. Wider channels generally boost throughput, which should perform well in your space with minimal 5GHz congestion. For security, enable WPA2-PSK-AES. After making these changes, connect your laptop to the PLUSNET 5GHz network (PLUSNET-7K3F) and check speed. If results improve, transfer all critical devices to the 5GHz network; keep older gadgets and IoT items on the 2.4GHz network. If performance remains unsatisfactory, consider adding a wireless access point. Since Ethernet isn’t an option, you may want to explore powerline or a robust tri-band mesh system for broader coverage—though it comes with a significant upfront cost. A WiFi repeater will likely degrade speed and latency, so skip that.
The way you phrased your message gives the impression you're planning to install another router for yourself while using the ISP for others. It’s likely to function as an access point, but not in the same way as a regular one. Upgrading from a low-quality router might resolve the problem. @Falcon1986 also suggested some alternatives you can test before buying a new device. Many doubt powerline adapters due to home wiring and power quality; well-maintained homes usually handle them just fine, sometimes even better than direct Ethernet connections. I’ve used them successfully for years without problems, though some acquaintances have faced difficulties. I’d advise setting up an actual access point rather than adding a secondary router, and adjusting your wireless settings won’t fix the issue.