New Router
New Router
I currently possess the Motorola SBG6580. It's true it's a decent modem, but it doesn't function as a router. The Wi-Fi is dropping frequently—sometimes multiple times per hour—and at other times it just fails entirely. That’s not acceptable. I’m considering buying a Netgear Nighthawk X4 R7500 AC2350 on eBay because it looks affordable. Before making the purchase, a few things come to mind:
1. What do the model numbers mean? I’ve seen terms like x4, x10, x8, etc., but I’m not sure what they signify.
2. The R7500 part is similar; it seems to be used for identification rather than indicating a specific version.
3. The AC2350 model is also familiar, though I saw an AC2330 as well.
Also, I’m planning to keep my current modem and want to connect the router to it. If I turn off the Wi-Fi from my Motorola POS, can I route through one of the Ethernet ports on the Nighthawk? Lastly, when I bought the new modem/router, I had to contact Comcast for activation. Will that be necessary with this new setup? Hopefully this clears things up.
Contact Comcast to turn on the modem; don’t use a router. Switch your modem from router mode to modem mode to avoid double NAT. Don’t worry about the X numbers.
It looks like X represents a tiered classification similar to i3, i5, i7, etc. Devices like the X10 support 802.11ad at 60 GHz but cost around $450 with limited value. You should be able to enable bridge mode for the SB6580 as described in the article. Just turn on the modem part, and it should already be active since you're using the same device there.
Most probably irrelevant marketing content. I’d suggest focusing on the technical details. The X4 should work just fine. It’s roughly the same speed you’d expect from a 5GHz router with most devices. Most of this comes down to firmware specifications and capabilities. For instance, my router supports 3G/4G dongles and Dual WAN. I’d guess better models might offer slightly faster wireless performance, but keep in mind that 5GHz and 2.4GHz speeds add up to the base AC number. Extra perks matter too. My main worry is malware targeting routers—make sure the device you pick isn’t on any known lists, as some Netgear models have faced issues.
2) Switch your modem to bridge mode if someone has connected it before.
3) Your modem is already set up; no need to contact Comcast. The only changes after switching a router are likely a new IP address, with minimal impact on internet access.
Buying routers from eBay isn’t the problem. Most modems sold there are often stolen from ISPs like Comcast. When provisioning, Comcast checks against stolen device lists and may request you return it if found.
In bridged mode, the modem essentially disables the router section, functioning similarly to a regular cable modem. It transmits the Comcast IP address through one of its Ethernet connections to the new router.