Setting up a fresh Wi-Fi hotspot using a MoCA router
Setting up a fresh Wi-Fi hotspot using a MoCA router
Hi everyone! I recently moved into a new home in Germany, and there’s no Ethernet network available. This seems to be a widespread problem, since the WiFi team installed my router directly onto the coaxial cables for TV/Multimedia instead. Now the challenge is that the house has two floors, and the signal only reaches the second floor where the router is placed.
Here’s a quick note: I’m not very familiar with networking and am still learning, which is why I’m reaching out before starting anything. My idea was to install another access point downstairs using a budget, used router of the same type, and connect it via coax instead of Ethernet. I’ve watched a few videos suggesting that as long as both devices are linked together, communication should be possible once DHCP is disabled on one.
Online, I struggled to find details about this setup since most people assume Ethernet cables are standard. I saw MoCA adapters that could convert coax signals into Ethernet-compatible ones, which would let me connect the router directly. However, prices range from 20€ to 100€, making it hard to know what’s needed. Even if an adapter lets me plug an Ethernet cable into a MoCA-ready device, why would the coax be sufficient already?
My main questions are: Can I just use the same router model and set it up like a regular access point? Do I need an adapter at all? What kind of adapter should I consider? I’m quite confused about this setup and not sure how to proceed.
I haven't tried Moca before, but I did a lot of research recently because I was thinking about installing it. I managed to move the modem and router in my room without any issues. It seems more like a Docsis cable modem combined with a router. In your situation, it would be Euro Docsis. I'm not sure how European versions differ from North American ones. Sometimes these devices can support Moca, but it's uncertain. You'll need to check which Moca generation is compatible. Once you know that, you just need an adapter—this will affect the cost since Moca has several generations and the latest models can reach up to 2.5 Gbps. Be aware that adding more Moca devices can slow your network, especially if there are many of them. Generally, to use Moca effectively, you'll need good cabling (preferably RG6), a filter on the main line if using coax, and cabling between adapters should be under 300 feet (about 100 meters). Standard splitters might work, but they're limited—US standard splitters max out around 1000 MHz, while Moca typically operates at 1 GHz. You may need splitters that support higher frequencies. Keep in mind that cable providers are constantly updating their standards; currently most US companies use channels from 5 MHz to 950 MHz, but with Docsis 4 they might be able to go up to 1.7 GHz. It's unclear if future changes will exceed this, and it could impact Moca performance long-term. Historically, cable companies used Moca for whole-home DVRs, but many US providers now offer cloud-based solutions.