Optimal configuration for your network device.
Optimal configuration for your network device.
Your current gateway is not working well, and you need to reset it whenever you switch from your wired PC to a Wi-Fi device. The manufacturer suggests performing a factory reset at least twice a week. You're considering using a separate modem and router instead. Your internet speed is 100 Mbps via coaxial connection, and your PC stays wired while only a few devices connect wirelessly. Living in an apartment complex means the 2.4 GHz channel is crowded, so you want 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz options. Help would be greatly appreciated since you haven't purchased this equipment recently.
Is your internet service provider permitting an alternative gateway besides the standard option? Are you referring to DSL, fiber, coaxial, wireless, or another type?
The problem seems to lie with the AP inside the router combo rather than the modem or router itself. You might want to opt for a separate AP and turn off WiFi on the combo unit to test if issues persist. I’d suggest going for a dedicated AP anyway, so you could try it out before purchasing a full modem and router setup. This connection type is 100Mbps Coax; unfortunately, I’m not well versed with consumer Coax modems, and in my experience UK mostly uses VDSL.
Consult your ISP regarding customer-owned modems. They may provide a compatible list. For cable modems, models like SB6183, CM500, CM600, or any Docsis 3.1 work well. Regarding routers, the selection becomes more complex with numerous options. I use a Synology RT2600AC, which costs around $200. For cable modems, I prefer an SB6141, though it offers only 8x4 and max speeds near 200 Mbps on Comcast. A better choice would be a 16x4, 24x8, or Docsis 3.1 device to allow future upgrades.
Obtain an EdgeRouter and an MSM422 equipped with PSU or 48V PoE-injector. Including the mounting plate for the MSM is recommended; it simplifies installation if needed. It functions without one, but mounting it elsewhere becomes challenging.
I also like EdgeRouter, but the original poster has more details to share. Regarding your AP suggestion, the HPE model is too expensive and outdated for its capabilities. Also, wireless speeds are capped at 54Mbps with 802.11n, which reduces the actual performance a client can get on a 100Mbps connection.
I possess three of these access points and purchased them on eBay for EUR 15 each, including mounting plates. They are dual-band devices supporting both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, with a maximum data rate of 300 Mbit. I only needed two because the coverage was sufficient. Their current availability is 227 days, 6 hours, and 39 minutes. There were no problems during operation, and I was able to obtain firmware from HP during setup. Could you recommend an access point offering similar performance at a lower cost? You mentioned needing a solution under EUR 30. The user has an existing connection with 100 Mbit, prefers 5 GHz, keeps their computer wired, has minimal wireless devices, and doesn’t require heavy data transfers. An AP supporting up to 300 Mbit should suffice. If you were to replace them, Ubiquity would be a good option. I’m unsure if we can source new units without their management software. You’d likely need to run Debian or purchase a cloud key for an additional EUR 65, bringing the total to around EUR 150 for an ERLite with MSM422 versus about EUR 250 for one with a key. So, what would be best for you? He could consider an ER4 for roughly EUR 200 plus other expenses, totaling around EUR 350, but since no VPN needs were mentioned, the ERLite should work... I’m not sure about cable modems.
@heimdali I’m not questioning the MSM422’s performance, but in 2020 it would be wiser to opt for devices supporting WiFi 5 rather than sticking with WiFi 4, even if you manage to buy used or cheap versions on eBay. While wireless-N can reach up to 300Mbps, this requires channel bonding, especially on the 2.4GHz band. That means using wider channels that will clash with existing signals in the crowded spectrum. Also, actual speeds will always fall short of what’s advertised. For Ubiquiti equipment, a basic EdgeRouter-X should suffice for any home setup—no need to upgrade further. You can expand ports with affordable unmanaged switches. Regarding APs, there are plenty of options across various budgets and requirements. Lastly: Yes, UniFi hardware must be set up via the UniFi Controller (applies only to non-UniFi models), but you don’t require a Cloud Key. Management is possible through the phone app, a local PC/RPi connected to the network, or remotely from the cloud.
It's hard to imagine anyone tolerating a phone for such tasks. Using cloud-based systems means relying on a computer or cloud key for access, which limits flexibility. For managing multiple points, you'd need a strong device or a reliable connection. If more bandwidth is needed, it might not be ideal given existing wireless options. All devices must support the latest protocols, and I'm unsure about specific recommendations for a plug-and-play solution.