Looking for a router suggestion? You need to swap out the airport model.
Looking for a router suggestion? You need to swap out the airport model.
Hello, I need some suggestions for a new router for my home. I’m currently using an AirPort Extreme, which works well with my Apple setup and multiple hard drives for videos, backups, and Time Machine across several computers. These drives also support Time Machine for multiple devices. I’ve connected two more AirPort Extremes as extenders in the basement to handle slower Wi-Fi from comers and consoles, since their speeds are lower (around 450-550 Mbps). My PS4 has good reception, but with a Cat6 connection it works fine. The ISP offers 1GB fiber, which is faster than what I’m getting now. I understand these models are outdated and can’t handle such speeds. They were discontinued about six years ago. I’m trying to find something that still lets me connect drives and use Time Machine, without needing a NAS right now. My wiring setup makes it tricky to run cables back down from the top floor. Thank you in advance for your help. I apologize if I didn’t find many useful recommendations. It was quite a search. Edited January 6, 2024 by Prailor
Without Ethernet connection you’d have to check powerline adapters or Moca adapters. Each comes with advantages and disadvantages. Powerline is simpler but its uncertain if it will function properly. Moca requires more setup and costs more. My Synology RT 2600AC works well in our home of about 1300 square feet. The top floor router gives solid coverage and speed, though I haven’t tested the basement yet. I noticed Synology provides mesh options too—just for reference. This router meets all my needs and even offers some advanced features. It’s likely it’s been updated at least five years and remains compatible. Another option could be ASUS, but I haven’t tried their routers myself. However, they have an AI mesh feature that lets you create your own mesh network with any router supporting it.
It seems like you're impressed with the router, but it might not fit your budget right now.
If the budget is the concern, consider TPLink, which offers some solid mid-range plans. A major challenge is the need for Gigabit Internet; achieving near-Gigabit speeds can be pricey. My device handles up to around 850 Mbps, and it only supports WiFi 5. I’d suggest switching to WiFi 6 since it’s the current standard, while WiFi 7 is still coming closer to being official. With multiple floors like yours, this will likely restrict your choices. Generally, WiFi repeaters are problematic—they can halve your bandwidth. If running cables isn’t feasible, a mesh network would be the best alternative, ensuring coverage without extensive wiring.
I've relied on the DD-WRT Supported Devices page over the years. Focus on units with at least 512MB RAM (1024MB+ would be ideal, though pricier), and 4x4:4 antenna setups. This should give you a solid starting point, which you can then narrow down. Keep in mind, this isn't a complete catalog of routers available right now. It's designed for those who want DD-WRT instead of the built-in firmware. Often newer models with advanced features appear without showing up here.
Searching for Asus brought me to the tp link page. I checked out the tp link axe5400, and it looks like there are more options, though the costs seem to be higher.
The main improvement would be switching from your current wireless bridge to a hardwired Ethernet setup, especially if you aim to use the full bandwidth you're paying for. It's interesting you can achieve such speeds with AirPort Extremes in a vertical and basement setting—omnidirectional antennas usually struggle in that configuration.
They should handle around 600mb. The consoles assume they’re connected via Cat 6. I’m checking if the new router improves stability so I might skip plugging it in. I’m also dealing with a bridge problem in the basement—unplugging my computer with an Ethernet dongle causes nearby devices to lose internet. I keep restarting it, possibly because it’s aging. For now, I don’t mind missing Wi-Fi coverage there, just looking for more reliable speeds.