Need a wireless router for many devices? Issues with routers failing are common.
Need a wireless router for many devices? Issues with routers failing are common.
Hello. Our space has a modest network of about 30 gadgets. They’re arranged in a star layout, each device linking to a central router which then connects via Ethernet to a Windows 10 server. File sizes stay small, usually under 10mb, but since everything runs off the server it stays busy and gets used by many devices daily. Internet is only for emails. Recently, we received a new router that performed well for four to seven months before it slowed down and became unreliable. At this point, access is first-come-first-served: early connectors get decent speeds, while newer ones struggle. Over the past few years I’ve replaced routers from brands like D-Link, Linksys, Xiaomi, Asus and many TP-Link models. All of them fail within a year or so. We’ve tried wiring all four desktops directly through switches, but most are laptops or mobile devices. The office is in a warehouse with glass walls, spans two floors (Level 0 and Level 1), and covers no more than 200sqft per floor. Routers we’ve used recently are dual-band AC1200, splitting connections between channels. Should we add more routers—say four total, with three as access points—or create separate networks altogether? Or am I overlooking a better option?
It seems unusual. I’d run IPerf between the two devices to verify speed, removing the server’s influence. For wireless concerns, a site survey would be useful, though I don’t think there are reliable free options. My impression is the problem isn’t just with routers, especially given multiple devices failing and performance drops across several models. Without personal experience or location details, it’s hard to advise precisely. If you’re looking for basic gear, one AP per floor (two total) should suffice. Ubiquiti offers affordable options; an Ubiquiti AP with built-in WiFi plus a Unifi AP could cost around 400 USD. Don’t forget a PoE injector if the AP lacks one, and consider a switch if you need more than three ports. Cheap gigabit switches work for simple setups, and Ubiquiti also has budget-friendly VLAN solutions.
I would also recommend Unfi or a business class router. These are better suited than consumer models built for home use. Since you've noticed this isn't a brand concern, it's clear consumer routers aren't designed for heavy business demands. Investing more upfront in a solid business class setup will save you money by reducing the need to replace it every 6-10 months.
Thank you for your response. Coverage is sufficient, with strong signal throughout the office. As noted, we’re packed tightly in a limited area—sorry about that. I meant to say before the final part: I added another router in my previous configuration, creating an additional Wi-Fi network. Now each floor has its own router. The level 1 unit still failed. Another point to highlight is that resetting the router restores it to normal operation for a few hours, though it eventually stops working. If we switch to a new router, it functions without needing the reset for 4 to 7 months, as mentioned. However, frequent resets are challenging because we must confirm everyone saved their work and close all files from the server to prevent corruption. Appreciate your product suggestions—I’ll search for suitable alternatives in India.
You should separate your router from your WiFi setup. These all-in-one devices share the same memory and processor for both functions. Turning off the built-in WiFi and using a reliable business-grade WAP should resolve the issue effectively—this approach has worked for me before.
This setup, along with connecting APs and all network devices to a switch, ensures the router handles internet traffic properly. You might achieve strong performance with Ubiquiti APs, and if problems persist, consider upgrading to a more robust business router.
The issue needs attention. Consider adopting the Cisco RV series for small business solutions. https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/r...index.html
Consider alternatives like Zyxel, Fortinet or Sonicwall. The Cisco RV series are fully supported and no longer available, with no replacements expected until next year at the latest.