Suggestions for wifi network
Suggestions for wifi network
I'm working on completing my basement and need advice about setting up a network. It spans over 5,000 sq ft across three floors. Right now I have an HD amplifier with decent speeds, but even with Ubiquiti's help, I only get around 100 Mbps right next to the router that’s hardwired. I’d like any extenders to be compatible with hardwiring since I already have network ports all over the house. Thanks ahead!
Your internet link ends inside your house through one of several points: a central hub that combines modem, router, switch, or Wi-Fi access point, or just a basic modem. Where exactly does the connection start within the home? Does it meet at the same spot where all cables from different floors join together? If you run a direct speed test to your gateway or modem (not through the AmpliFi HD), what rates do you achieve? On average, how many connected devices—both wired and wireless—are you expecting this network to handle? How much are you willing to spend on setting this up?
The modem is located in the basement, while the router for the amplifier HD is on the first floor. I’ve connected the modem to the network using a bridge, and only the amplifier broadcasts. Right now, the only devices that are physically wired are my desktop. After the basement is completed, I plan to install three to four additional devices. On average, we have about six devices using Wi-Fi. There’s no significant dead zone, but in the bedroom and bathroom upstairs, speeds can drop to 5-6 Mbps. I currently have an AMPLIFI mesh point in the hallway outside my room. Speed tests show around 300 Mbps in both directions when hardwired. My budget is between $400 and $600. I’ve been considering ASUS products because they offer good range and speed across most of their routers, based on my research. I don’t think it’s necessary to invest in a WiFi 6 router just yet since I don’t have any devices that require it at the moment. I’m thinking about getting two RT-30-ac88u units for the upstairs and one for the basement, or possibly an AC5300 (RT or GT) for the upstairs and an AC88U or AC86U for the basement.
I’d use this setup for about $315. It includes an Ubiquiti Edgerouter X ($60), a UniFi Switch 8 60W ($96) linked to the gateway, and an ER-X 2x AC Lite ($160) with access points for basement and top floor. They connect via PoE to the Switch 8. You can switch the ER-X for a USG and add a Cloud Key later, or build your own controller with a Raspberry Pi if needed. The UniFi Controller works on a local PC until migration. If you prefer not to mount the APs high, you can swap one or both AC Lites for a Flex HD, especially on the upper floor. For newer models, I favor the latest Ubiquiti gear—they’re more stable than older UniFi and AmpliFi versions.