Looking for a fresh router? Here are some ideas.
Looking for a fresh router? Here are some ideas.
I wouldn’t use that equipment with a 40-foot pole, not just because of cost or brand, but since 802.11ad is set to be superseded by an updated standard called 802.11ay this year. If you’re after the newest technology, wait for it to get officially recognized. Of course, this only matters if your devices don’t already support 802.11ad or ay protocols—consider that when deciding. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wi-Fi_Alliance#WiGig Nonetheless, I generally prefer Netgear and ASUS products because many (though not all) run OpenWRT or DD-WRT Linux firmware, giving you greater control and monitoring options, plus advanced capabilities like built-in Transmission-BT for easy NAS setups. (A dedicated NAS remains ideal, but this feature is handy for torrent servers that don’t need constant full PC operation, saving power too.) We still need more details—what’s the size of your home? Are there any dead zones or basements? How many devices are in use and what types are they? Where is your modem/router positioned, and can it be relocated if needed? If relocation isn’t possible, would you consider a mesh networking system instead?
60 GHz WiFi offers no real benefit. It won’t pass through walls effectively. That’s why Linus showed up with his Wireless AD demo—some routers failed to reach the cardboard box. Better go with AC or keep an eye on future AX models.
The responses to your inquiries are as follows:
1. Your home measures roughly thirty feet in length, positioned at the uppermost level on one side. It spans three levels, and there are no designated "dead" areas; though the signal is weak in the basement at the opposite end, an AP will eventually be placed there, which isn’t an issue.
2. The Linksys Control Panel indicates roughly 15 to 20 devices are active concurrently, mainly smartphones and tablets, with most connected via Amazon Echo devices.
3. Your modem and router are currently situated on the top floor at one end of the house. Relocating them would simply move them to the basement in a similar location.
4. We plan to add APs eventually, possibly when we acquire a new router or if we decide later. I’d rather install APs than rely on a mesh system, but I’m open to suggestions. Regarding WiGig (60Gbps), it seems limited to a few compatible devices and has very short range—could it still serve as a future-proof option? Thanks.
(By the way, I missed getting back to you for a while; I was away on the weekend and didn’t check.)
Edited March 18, 2019 by Riverchiken886
Forgot something
I really appreciate the Ubiquiti equipment. Installing things like the UniFi Security Gateway, adding a POE switch, and then APs as needed provides plenty of flexibility for future upgrades. Although it's a bit pricier, I consider it a solid investment. I use this setup at my home and several family residences.