Optimize your home network setup for better performance and security.
Optimize your home network setup for better performance and security.
Hey there, I see you're trying to optimize your network setup. You've got a coax connection coming in, split into two lines, with your modem/router in the living room and a Netgear Nighthawk on the ground floor. The coax from the basement is currently unused, which makes sense since you're already using it for TV. You mentioned struggling to get the Optimum modem/router online despite calls, and you're curious about more efficient wiring. It sounds like you're aiming for a hardwired PC in the basement, TVs on both coax and internet in the living room, and Wi-Fi throughout the house up to the second floor. That’s a solid plan if done right—just make sure the cabling is organized and the devices are properly connected. Let me know if you need tips on routing or setting up the wired connections!
Set up an Ethernet connection from the router to the basement for a hardwired PC setup. Determine the best configuration for your modem/router—pass-through, modem-only, or another setting. If you have a secondary router, you may encounter double NAT; this is usually fine but can complicate things. Check if your Wi-Fi reaches the upstairs office adequately. Make sure Wi-Fi isn’t disabled on the modem router, as that would reduce interference. Consider switching to a mesh network like Google Nest for better coverage in larger homes. Deploying mesh units at various locations can cover expansive areas efficiently and is often a cost-effective solution if your current router suffices.
Setting up an ethernet connection down isn't straightforward because of the modem/cable boxes' placement in the living room. They aren't directly under the basement; it's more like a half basement. The best approach would be to run one of the coax cables with Ethernet on the other end. I'm not sure if that would work. I tried this earlier when installing the Nighthawk, but it didn’t go well and I couldn’t find any model info online. On the Netgear side, speeds are around 30mb down upstairs, while the Nighthawk handles up to 300mb+ everywhere. The distance between the upstairs office and the basement is similar—just a few megabits at most. In the basement it's a bit better, but still limited. The Nighthawk can manage the whole house independently. I'm wondering if I could use the coax running from the closet in the basement to hard wire my PC.
You might find success with Moca. Some users report great results while others face difficulties. In short, Moca turns your coax cables into an Ethernet connection. There are certain restrictions on its capabilities, and it introduces some delay in your link. If Ethernet isn't available at the desired spot, Moca becomes a strong option.