Network instability causes unexpected disconnections while using Wi-Fi.
Network instability causes unexpected disconnections while using Wi-Fi.
I handle the IT side of my home network, managing connections and resolving problems. About three years ago I bought a high-quality TP-Link Archer AX10000 router to connect our new symmetrical fiber internet. It’s placed in the basement and struggles to reach the upper floors. Around a year and a half ago I added two range extenders—RE505X and RE605X—compatible with the OneMesh system. Over the past few months our network has been very unreliable. Connection drops occur both wirelessly and via cable. Some devices connect perfectly, while others can’t load web pages. BG3 will reset the network every 10-20 minutes. Wi-Fi is worse than wired, but neither works as expected. Restarts sometimes help temporarily, but often nothing changes. I tried separating the networks from OneMesh, yet the 5GHz band doesn’t get a boost from the extender. The ISP says everything is fine and their gear is working properly. This situation has been really frustrating. I have a few ideas about what might be going on: 1) the router is failing 2) a firmware update caused issues 3) the extenders plus OneMesh are complicating things 4) my gaming server is affecting the network 5) the ISP might be at fault. NEXT STEP Do any of these explanations fit? Are there other troubleshooting steps I can try to fix this? What would be the best wireless solution for my house? I’m open to any advice or suggestions.
Completely feasible, though age makes it seem unlikely.
Previously encountered unreliable software handling similar issues—hard to believe.
WiFi standards aren’t very smart for roaming, but not usually this severe.
Still uncertain, but not impossible.
Recently, I was misled by Verizon and Xfinity about faulty gear, with staff reassuring me despite clear signs of problems.
In one case, a representative insisted the device was fine, even as it appeared to be acting strangely.
Another time, an employee told me everything was functioning properly until a technician pointed out the hardware was defective.
Considering the situation, it might be worthwhile to test a Wifi 6E or early Wifi 7 router. If you're unsure, 6E could be a strong option. Removing the server from the network didn't resolve the issue, so the ISP's claim may not be accurate. A new router could handle basic connectivity problems.
Check your connection speed by connecting directly to the ISP device with an Ethernet cable. Is it delivering the promised performance? Next, perform the speed test again while using the AX10000 wired connection for a direct comparison. Then, turn off all range extenders and conduct a wireless scan with WiFi Analyzer on a laptop at both sites where the extenders were previously connected. Capture screenshots of the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, and note which signal or network name originates from your AX10000 device.