Router or Switch for Combining Two Ethernet Connections from Different ISPs
Router or Switch for Combining Two Ethernet Connections from Different ISPs
Working remotely with one ISP (cable) and thinking about adding a second line (DSL) at 50Mbps. Seeking information on devices that merge bandwidth from two Ethernet connections into one output, offering redundancy if one provider fails. Looking for names of these products and where to purchase them in Canada. Goal is to combine a DSL connection (50Mbps) with cable internet (150Mbps) into a single 200Mbps link for smoother work and meetings.
It's important to understand that you won't receive a single 200 Mbps connection. Instead, you'll have options like 50+150 Mbps as a single link can only support one path, which means download speeds will be capped at 50 or 150 depending on the setup. However, multiple clients can take advantage of different routes, allowing another user to use an alternative connection if one is overwhelmed, ensuring both can access full bandwidth.
These routers typically come with two WAN ports or LAN ports that can be switched to WAN roles, either built-in or via third-party software. Common capabilities include distributing traffic and automatic switching if one port fails. The combined performance of the two WAN links isn’t just the sum of their individual speeds; it requires special setup like bonding, which must be handled by the ISP or a separate service.
Linus highlighted a technology from years past that could support this for one client, but you'd need balanced connections from both ISPs with configurations on both sides. There are also challenges with services like CloudFlare that may not accept data from two IP addresses. In the past, devices could combine multiple DSL lines, but that doesn<|pad|> to not apply here. Keeping two ISP links separate is the goal. You won't achieve 200Mbps for a single client.