Searching for suggestions on a router/modem package.
Searching for suggestions on a router/modem package.
Hello. You're considering a home upgrade with a focus on performance and features. Your requirements include a modem and router within a $300-350 budget, emphasizing cooling for a compact space. You have CAT6A cables ready and plan to expand later with a switch. Coverage across two floors is essential, and you need fast LAN speeds for FTP and PiHole usage. WAN speeds should stay under 2 gigabit. You'll manage many wireless devices and want strong configuration options like port forwarding and good DNS support. For the modem side, you're using cable internet and have two models in mind—ASUS AX6000 and ASUS ROG Rapture—but they lack modem features. You're open to finding a suitable modem that fits your budget. Please share any feedback or suggestions as I review this carefully. Thank you!
It's used to connect devices to the internet via a cable or coaxial line. It stays linked to the router or access point because it needs that central connection to function properly.
I mentioned having cable, but the list seems quite extensive and messy. It’s a coaxial cable. Additionally, there’s room for a separate modem box. What I meant was that I also require modem capabilities.
Sorry, missed this point. Are you connected through a US-based ISP? If you aim for multi-gig speeds and keep them stable on your local network, make sure the router supports at least 2.5Gbps WAN and LAN ports—possibly more if you plan to use a multi-gig switch. Also, not all routers with 2.5Gbps ports handle that bandwidth efficiently. Here’s a selection of wireless routers suited for multi-gig setups.
I focus mainly on a 2.5Gbps LAN connection. Currently and in the near future, my WAN will be around 1Gbps, though it often spikes to 1.1-1.2Gbps due to fluctuations. What I need is a wired setup with 2.5Gbps and the fastest wireless option possible within my budget. The network switch comes later, but you're suggesting a router capable of managing a high-speed, many-outbound connection network? That makes sense if it applies.
Explore the ASUS GT-AX6000. It supports 2.5Gbps LAN and WAN connections.
I checked the details of the links you mentioned. It looks like the newer option might be a direct upgrade at the same cost, but it’s using up all your budget and leaving you without a modem. The older one you have is still available and could work for your ASUS router. Would using that fit what you need?
Examine the connection rates. Although the GT-AX11000 seems stronger, it lacks the dual 2.5Gbps ports found in the GT-AX6000. You can still work with it right now, but for higher speeds over coaxial cables you’d likely need a DOCSIS 3.1 or better modem. At those levels, even standard routers might struggle to maintain performance.
I’m considering it carefully. It seems a single 2.5Gbps port would suffice, which makes the GT-AX11000 a more appealing option. (Assuming that’s correct.) I plan to keep the older router linked as a modem for now, since my WAN speeds remain at 1Gbps and I’ll upgrade later if needed. For the routers I’m mainly connecting between, I’ll use the GT-AX11000 and the RT-AXE7800. The latter supports Wi-Fi 6E, but I’m unsure about compatibility or performance improvements. Unless it’s significantly better, I’ll stick with the GT-AX11000. Thanks for your feedback!
The review highlights that the GT-AX6000's improved speed and range likely stem from a quicker processor. If you favor the 3-band setup found in the GT-AX11000, choose that option. Inside the device, most ASUS routers offer similar capabilities. Most users don’t use WiFi-6e devices, and if they do, it’s obvious. In my view, unless you’re planning several WiFi-6e access points or only need one in a spacious, open area, stick with WiFi 6. 6GHz covers less distance than 5GHz, so maximizing its benefits in today’s home layouts usually demands multiple APs. Additionally, compatible client antennas add another cost that may not be feasible all at once.