The internet service provider has just enhanced their network and requires a fresh router.
The internet service provider has just enhanced their network and requires a fresh router.
It seems unrelated to the cable; likely the router uses only high-speed Ethernet.
That’s a strong signal on your local network. It’s unlikely it’s coming through the cable, but you could test by connecting the modem directly to your computer and measuring the connection speed.
I don’t feel the need to point fingers at the router—it lists Gigabit speeds on both WAN and LAN connections. The Archer C7 would fit perfectly here. It offers Gigabit capabilities for both ports, making it a solid upgrade from his current setup. His existing router only has GigE ports. What’s your modem model?
It's quite an old setup, hasn't it? I've had Fiber Optic service from my ISP since 2010. It's an OEM Huawei model, the EchoLife HG8240. I tried reaching out to them and they suggested replacing the modem, which seems to be the issue. I think the modem is limiting performance. I also thought a new router might help, though it currently supports up to 1Gbps on both LAN and WAN. The wireless part is a bit outdated—300Mbps and 2.4GHz at most. It feels like it's not keeping up.
If I install a repeater upstairs, it would only go up to 300Mbps and 2.4GHz, just like my current router. If I switch to a new router with 800Mbps wireless and 5GHz support, will the repeater still function? Also, I've heard some devices can't handle 5GHz yet—so if my new router uses that frequency, will my older 2.4GHz devices still work?
My main concerns are: strong signal coverage, reliable performance, and keeping costs reasonable. No need for anything fancy—just what works well and fits my budget.
I thought the modem could be the problem. If you're aiming for stronger Wi-Fi, upgrading to a router would make sense. That choice is not mandatory. Should your repeater handle 300 Mbps Wireless N (2.4GHz), it can still link with a newer Wireless AC router—though it will still work over 2.4GHz, which won't offer much extra in the new model. The faster Wi-Fi speeds come from the 5GHz band. If you purchase a new Wireless AC router, your repeater won't be able to access the 5GHz spectrum or take full advantage of those speeds. This isn't a big deal; just expect slower coverage in areas served by the repeater compared to direct new router connections. To achieve maximum speed throughout the space, you'd need to upgrade the repeater or opt for a router with a stronger antenna that can cover the whole area alone. As noted earlier, newer Wireless AC routers use both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. The 5GHz side runs at speeds similar to Wireless N (300–450 Mbps), so your existing 2.4GHz devices remain fully compatible. They won't be faster, just slower than before. For higher speeds, your gadgets must support 5GHz. The TP-Link Archer C7 is a solid pick—I've seen it in use by someone's mother. It's straightforward to set up and performs well. The Archer C9 offers longer range, so you might want that instead. I own a C9; it's decent. Both the C7 and C9 provide good value in North America and often come on sale.
I’m not sure if it’s your modem either. ISPs often swap it out because they’re unsure what they need and just want a customer to hang up. Unless the modem is really fast on every port—which is uncommon outside DSL—have you tried testing directly from your PC?
It seems the issue might not be the Ethernet ports themselves. I think I noticed that his Modem (GPON Fibre) had gigabit ports everywhere. Still, it’s possible the modem doesn’t handle those speeds he’s subscribed to. I didn’t locate any speed ratings in the documentation (For example, a DOCSIS 3.0 8x4 modem can’t support Gigabit Internet even if it has a GigE RJ-45 port).
My main worry is I’m only getting 100mbps. Possibilities: -PC uses fast ethernet only -Router is fast only -Modem is fast only -Auto negotiation isn’t working -Bad cable or not using Cat 5 A few of these I can rule out but I think I’m missing some details. If the modem is the issue, it would be interesting to know why it’s capped at 100mbps when they could handle more even years ago. Running a direct test from the modem should quickly clarify the problem.