Network refresh required – assistance needed with equipment
Network refresh required – assistance needed with equipment
Hello! I've been considering improving my network setup lately. Right now it's not very robust—my ISP provides PPPoE via RJ45, and I'm using a Belkin Play max as both router and access point. DHCP and DNS are handled by pi.hole on the network. I'm filling all four LAN ports on the router, but I want to expand Wi-Fi coverage and have better positioning for the router inside the house. Since I'm starting fresh, I need these features:
- Minimum 5 GLANs available
- PPPoE support at the edge
- At least .11 Mbps download speed
- Strong 5GHz band for better performance
- Keep using pi.hole
- Budget-friendly option
- Interested in Ubiquiti UniFi, but I'm not sure what to choose—especially with limited experience and only hearing good things about them.
Any advice or recommendations would be appreciated!
Ubiquiti solutions offer excellent value. If you're open to upgrading your setup, Pfsense or Sophos could be a smart choice. Using them as your routing gear will make you significantly more satisfied. Strong Wi-Fi connections can be costly, but these suggestions might help lower your overall expenses. First, you'll need a Software Defined Network (SDN) controller. You can set it up on any Linux distro you prefer for a virtualized setup or purchase it directly from the link provided.
You’ll also require access points. If you want Wi-Fi 6 support, consider AC-based models; otherwise, patience is needed. For APs, I recommend the AC ones unless you specifically need Wi-Fi 6. If your home isn’t already wired, you’ll need a way for them to connect—coaxial options are available, but I suggest checking the links for more details.
For power over Ethernet (PoE) adapters, the recommended model is the 48V PoE injector. If you don’t have a wired setup, look into alternatives like Motorola adapters or consider a mesh network with a wired backbone. A wireless mesh option can work well too, especially if you’re comfortable troubleshooting it.
I’ve used a mesh system that combines wired and wireless elements, and it performed reliably in various environments. The key is matching the solution to your needs—whether you prioritize ease of use or performance.
Thanks for the detailed list. It seems a good spot with high-quality AP could handle the whole house Wi-Fi. The Belkin works but is located in a less ideal position because it needs access to LAN ports on the back. Currently, only one room suffers from poor reception, and it's on the opposite side and floor. If I plan to use Ubiquiti, I'll need both an AP and a cloud key (or possibly run SDN elsewhere).
Having one AP means you don't require a cloud key—it functions just like an AP. You can configure it once and let it operate automatically. If you're investing in a full system and need features such as fast-roaming, using a single SSID across your area is ideal. Running the SDN controller becomes necessary for that setup. It seems you're well-suited for wireless mesh Wi-Fi. The devices I mentioned include tri-band antennas, allowing access to both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz channels. Ubitiquiti products come with integrated spectrometers, enabling them to detect optimal channels for operation.