NetworkingHouse offers various connection methods.
NetworkingHouse offers various connection methods.
We've encountered some problems with our home network recently, and I'm considering an upgrade. I'm seeking advice from the community on what would best meet my requirements. Previously, I relied on an Asus AC-3200 router for my networking needs. I configured my ISP modem in bridge mode. After removing the Asus AC-3200, I reactivated its routing and access point features. However, this solution isn't sustainable long-term because the modem struggles to provide internet to all devices. I've just ordered a new wired router and access point (I should receive them soon): https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B007B60...EEQB&psc=1 https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B015PRC...X9YJ&psc=1 The Problems I've faced with the Asus AC-3200 have lasted over two years. It would frequently cut off network access even though the web interface appeared normal. Restarting it usually brought it back temporarily. My connected devices include two PCs, a NAS/Plex server, three laptops, plus various gadgets like a thermostat, three smoke detectors, a printer, two Google Home mini devices, and three phones. I also plan to add 3-4 IP cameras soon. My NAS/Plex server runs continuously and requires high speeds. My current setup includes a 10Gb switch and a wireless access point (I'm deciding whether to use one for IoT devices or keep the wired router for the main PC and NAS). I'm considering a separate wireless access point for IoT, while the wired router handles the switch connection. I was looking at this model: https://www.amazon.ca/Netgear-Unmanaged-...dpSrc=srch This switch has only two 10Gb ports, which should suffice for my NAS and main PC. I'm planning to purchase two additional NICs—one for the NAS and one for the main PC: https://www.amazon.ca/Asus-XG-C100C-Netw...dpSrc=srch I'm curious about your thoughts on the switch and NIC choices. Do you have any suggestions or alternatives?
Are you certain it's worth investing in 10GiB? Unless your NAS uses RAID and you're frequently transferring your video library between devices (which also have RAID), the advantage won't be significant. You'd require multiple clients handling extremely high bitrate 4K files simultaneously to justify it. It might seem appealing to prioritize the best setup now, but waiting until you genuinely need it could make it much more affordable later.
Would all the gadgets lose signal or just a few? Did this router only handle Wi-Fi or also manage LAN connections? Were you purchasing a router with features you’ll never use? You mentioned opting for an Ubiquity access point, which I wouldn’t have chosen otherwise—I’m not sure if your ISP offers a selection to choose from. Still, it appears the device is quite solid. I wonder where you plan to run the controller: will you use it with your Plex server or rely on a cloud account? Here are some general thoughts on the plan: - A 10Gb switch would be great, but both your AP and router don’t support 10 Gb speeds. Looking at your devices, I think only the Plex server and PCs will use the wired 10 Gb link. Also, I’m curious if your home wiring uses Cat6 or better—otherwise, it won’t handle 10Gb. If you’re heavily using the Plex server from many devices at once, it might make sense. From what I understand, Plex limits bandwidth to about 40 Mbit per stream. So pushing a 1 Gb connection with Plex would require around 25 devices streaming HD video simultaneously. I doubt you’ll overwhelm the Plex server even with a 1 Gb link unless you’re using higher bitrates. - Remember that Ubiquity APs support PoE, so you’ll need a PoE injector somewhere along the line. - Your Ubiquity devices can create several SSIDs per AP, so you could assign another VLAN and SSID for IoT gadgets. - Note that if you’re using multiple Ubiquity APs, they must be well-separated. In short, switching to a gigabit connection could save you money in the long run.
Approximately two years ago I purchased two SPF+ NICs along with a single cable for them while my NAS was placed next to my main PC. You're correct—it's significantly more economical that way, and it was enjoyable creating a separate network between those two devices. However, we recently relocated from our condo to a new home, and now my NAS is in the basement whereas my main PC resides on the second floor. The SPF+ cable I had isn't long enough and isn't suitable for in-wall setups. I also bought a 1000' CAT6A cable that I've already threaded through the walls; it supports up to 10Gb speeds. Right now I don't require 10Gb, but when I decide to purchase a switch later, I want one that can handle my future needs.
To be honest, the storage medium that I'm using in my NAS wouldn't have a chance at maxing out the 10Gb speeds, but it's just something that I want to do not that I need to do. I'm not planning to buy the switch right now, but I would like to get a decent switch in the next 12 months or so. The wired router and AP that I ordered should be able to take care of my immediate needs. Although I may need 1 additional AP, but we'll see how the 1 handles the load.
Thank you for your input. Your current router was delivering both Wi-Fi and LAN services. Initially, it connected only a few devices, but once connections dropped, coverage expanded to all devices after about 10 to 60 minutes. Restarting would restore functionality, though the overall experience was disappointing. I struggled to find a suitable wired router; Ubiquity’s options seemed too costly. While I recognize the router has unused features, it appears to function well based on reviews. Since I’m unfamiliar with Ubiquity products, I assume they require one setup from a PC and then operate independently. If needed, I can run a controller on my NAS. You’re right about prioritizing devices needing 10Gb—my NAS and main PC are the only ones requiring it. This helps avoid network congestion for those devices. Looking ahead, I plan to install IP cameras and use WD Purple drives in my NAS for video storage. We recently moved into a new home and purchased a 1000' CAT6A cable for internal use. For Plex, you can adjust the maximum bitrate for local and remote clients. My internal clients are set to full RAW quality, which handles heavy 4K content well. I cap external clients at 8Mbps, which suits my household (brother, girlfriend, dad). My upload speed of 30Mbps is sufficient for now. My idea was to place a PoE injector in the basement near the router, with a short Ethernet link to the AP. According to sources, PoE cables have no distance limits—only data transmission restrictions apply. I intended to create a VLAN for IoT devices to improve management. Regarding range, I’m unsure about the separation needed between two Ubiquity APs. I agree I don’t require 10Gb speeds now; sticking with 1Gb would save costs and keep prices reasonable (subjective). I’m pleased I chose CAT6A cables, so if I switch to 1Gb later, I can upgrade without major changes.
It's funny, while I wait for my new router and AP, I'm using my ISPs modem/router as an all-in-one solution. After 1 weekend of moderate use, I'm working from home today, and the modem/router crapped out I had to power cycle it and now it's running again. I can't wait to get my new devices and put my modem back into bridge mode.
It seems like an IP issue might be involved. Could it be that you're leasing a network or broadcast address? For instance, if your network is 192.168.1.0 with a subnet of 255.255.255.0, could there be a device at 192.168.1.0 or 192.168.1.255 causing the problems you're experiencing? That makes sense. If you're experimenting with open-source projects but it's just for learning, that's fine. Just making sure you're not using more resources than necessary if you don't need it. For simple tasks like a guest portal or device tracking, you can manage everything yourself. If you're using a Synology NAS, there might be a repository where you can install the Ubiquity Controller software on the instant. When your NAS runs Linux or Windows, you should be able to locate repositories or installers online. You can find more details here: https://community.ubnt.com/t5/UniFi-Wire...-p/2266412
I only gave static IP addresses to a few gadgets, the rest got assigned automatically. All my devices had IPs ranging from 192.168.1.1 to 192.168.1.200. I should mention this router performed perfectly for about two years and only started changing recently. Lol, I don’t mind spending money just to learn and have fun. That’s ideal—I don’t need detailed usage stats. I’m planning a single VLAN for guests, another for IoT devices, and one for my other equipment. My NAS is a home-built system, but I think I won’t need to run the controller software there; if I do, I’ll handle it on my NAS. Thanks for the link—it looks really useful. Once I install it, I’ll check the signal from my new AP and decide if I need more. My house is a 2000 sqft two-story building with a basement. I’m thinking of placing the AP in the center of the main floor ceiling. I believe the Ubiquity APs can support many devices, so I hope my small collection won’t overload it. Thanks for all the information.