Purchasing a Home Modem/Router for My Parents' Household
Purchasing a Home Modem/Router for My Parents' Household
I aim to upgrade my parents' home network setup to save on their monthly costs. For this, I plan to install a new modem/router. In the consumer market I lack experience with typical devices, so I’m unsure which models offer strong web interfaces or advanced features. That’s why I’m seeking advice. I’ll check the ISP’s recommended router list. How crucial is it to follow that list? The essentials are: DOCSIS 3.0 or better support, a standard 1Gbit LAN port, coaxial WAN connection, analog phone support via RJ-11 ports, and DHCP pool management with IP reservation. I don’t need four switch ports; the device will connect to a dedicated switch. I intend to use a Unifi AP solution for Wi-Fi, which most consumer units already include. Everyone I know seems capable of offering useful suggestions: @brwainer, @beersykins, @leadeater, @mynameisjuan, @Lurick. I’m not targeting any specific brand or price range—just avoid expensive options like a Cisco 1941 and a coax adapter.
When discussing cable options, I strongly recommend using a modem and router together. Cable bundles often perform inconsistently and can be costly. A basic consumer modem works fine, but Netgear stands out as the top choice. Set it in bridge mode and let it handle all modem functions. Modems generally remain reliable, handling only Layer 1 tasks. Router packages frequently fail because their software struggles, leading to crashes or reboots. If you intend to switch to Unifi later, consider a small edge router as the central controller—especially useful when managing multiple access points. This approach gives you an advantage. While I’m an ISP engineer and mostly deal with DSL and fiber, I do encounter cable modems occasionally through resale accounts; they behave much like DSL modems. This should provide some useful insight.
I suggest using a dedicated modem and router instead of a combined unit. For modems, Arris SurfBoard is a solid choice—available on Amazon or other tech retailers, pick the model matching your internet tier (consider upgrading for extra proof). Avoid the "Arris SBGxxxx" as they are bundled routers.
For routers, Ubiquiti EdgeRouter Lite, Unifi USG, or Mikrotik hEX (RB750Gr3) work well. The latter is noted for its support of three ports, which fits your needs.
If you need a modem with a physical RJ-11 (POTS) port, none of these options are sold to consumers. However, Spectrum may offer an MTA when you mention your preference for a custom modem setup.
I intend to install more than one unit, actually two. A problem we face is that even with roughly 2 to 3 bars of signal strength, the Wi-Fi just disconnects abruptly. This happens only during certain times and when several clients are connected, suggesting a transmitter issue rather than a signal quality problem. The signal becomes weak near the edges of the house, which should address that area. I wish FTTH was available but they reside in a remote location. It's a small town where the nearest towns are several miles away in either direction, so the closest option is FTTN. The device they use is just a large coax splitter. I noticed it was opened when the cable was first installed. Coax only gained popularity about five years ago. Prior to that, DSL T2/T3 was our best choice. This situation made me reluctant to try fixing it myself since I've never seen a consumer modem/router with an analog phone built in. I’ll need to discuss this over the phone or at the store they have nearby. If they insist on renting, it seems they charge a reasonable price online. Turning it on will be a learning process unless it’s PnP. So far, everyone agrees. Separate modem and router are recommended. I was thinking about running two APs and considered using cloudkey, but I realized I could just download the software and run it on a box or VM instead (saving around $100). If a Unifi router can handle dual roles, that would simplify things.
There seems to be an issue with the present wireless setup. It appears to work well in most cases except for high-end or enterprise gear. Even our Mikrotiks sometimes behave unpredictably. No one can explain why. Ubiquiti should resolve it easily. That’s frustrating. Give it a bit more time; we’re still expanding fiber connections for our DSL clients, but it’s taking a lot of effort. I’m hoping copper and cable will disappear in five years. It feels like a poor platform for customers. Ubiquiti – yes, Mikrotik – no, Mikrotik isn’t our main choice for consumer use with HAP AC 2s and CSRs in businesses. But here are two reasons I wouldn’t recommend them: 1) Unless you’re prepared to invest weeks mastering the interface, security settings, rules, queues, firewalls… it’s not worth the hassle, even with all the features and capabilities. I’ve been using them for two years and keep discovering new things daily. 2) Ubiquiti APs and Mikrotiks don’t integrate well, especially because the Mikrotik side lacks a proper controller. If you stick with Ubiquiti, you’ll be stuck with Ubiquiti everywhere.
I’ve never come across the ability to operate the Unifi controller on a router like an EdgeRouter. While EdgeRouter is derived from VyOS, it seems manually loading the JAR for Unifi isn’t officially supported. From what I read, most users report issues due to limited RAM and MIPS-based CPUs, and the USG also doesn’t work.
Doesn't work with EdgeRouter; Unifi is a distinct product line built on its own platform. For simplicity and better compatibility with other Ubnt solutions commonly used at home, it's recommended to use Unifi products. Just obtain a Cloud Key. During a previous installation at a friend’s residence using a Cloud Key, a PoE switch and three UAP-AC Pros were connected. The setup was smooth, with no problems, and it was easily controlled remotely. It was installed in someone else’s home, so we intend to add a USG later—though that step is already completed. Generally, all the guidance provided applies, focusing on single-cable modems going to reliable devices.
Considering your input, here are some router and modem ideas you might like. For the modem, there are two options similar in price: ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 and Netgear CM600. Any background on these would be helpful.
The SB6190 contains a design issue and should be avoided entirely. Any device with the Puma 6 chip is best left out. This problem has persisted for years despite repeated promises of a solution that never materialized. The situation is so severe that Arris is facing legal action over it. If you require a 32-channel downstream modem, you’ll need Docsis 3.1 for a quality option. I’ve heard the CM600 performs well and has been recommended.
I'm aiming for a reliable option that's not overpriced. The plan they're on requires DOCSIS3.0 or better, so if a mid-range 3.0 model like the Netgear fits the bill, I'll go with it—provided we both think it's a solid choice.