Need assistance with setting up your network?
Need assistance with setting up your network?
I’m attempting to optimize my current setup as much as possible (it’s still subpar). I’m using a BT smart hub 2 in the main lounge, which relies on the phone line for wireless internet. It offers unlimited data but only reaches about 20mbps—often between 4 and 15mbps in practice. My mum isn’t allowing me to run a cable through the walls to reach the upstairs area directly from the router. The router is behind a curtain, and she believes there’s no better spot available, even though I could rearrange furniture or move items. She recently switched to a new contract, promising speeds similar to 60mbps at roughly half the cost, but I’m stuck with this setup now. I’m exploring alternatives to improve signal quality and performance but feel overwhelmed by the technical details. Recently, I tried using a power adapter, though the wiring isn’t great. I have a coaxial cable for TV, and I read online it could connect to a MOCA adapter, then link that to the router or modem for an Ethernet connection. Is this a viable idea? If yes, how would I set up the second modem with my ISP? Since the hub functions as both modem and router, should I purchase a separate router for maximum speed? Could I use a different router to connect via the power adapter, getting Wi-Fi from both devices, or connect the hub directly through the adapter? The hub includes internal Wi-Fi; would adding external antennas help? Any other suggestions or advice?
The main challenge is that your only viable choice seems to involve Wi-Fi, which undermines the purpose of having a wired connection via Ethernet. The second router concept isn’t advisable—it just adds complexity without solving the core issue. You’d still need a strong signal reaching your PC. You can’t connect two routers directly to your ISP; you’d rely on the main router as a modem, using the second one only as a gateway. While sending Ethernet over coax might work, it’s unlikely to help since the coax likely runs from the roof antenna straight into your home. Running a cable and adding a splitter or booster near the router would be necessary. In your situation, a WiFi bridge could be the best option—it connects to your home Wi-Fi, provides an Ethernet port for your computer, and keeps things simpler.
I’ll take any measure, even just boosting the Wi-Fi strength possible. I’ll check the bridge, thank you.