Reddit mentions: The best whole home & mesh wi-fi systems

Ubiquiti UniFi is the way to go here. It's a whole business-grade system that's managed from a controller, which makes managing any number of devices similar to managing a single wireless router like you're probably used to.

First you'll need the router. It's a router only, without a switch or AP built in, so just connect the WAN1 port to your modem/ONT and the LAN1 port to your main switch.

Second, you'll need access points (APs). There are three main choices here, each with its own pros and cons:

AP Lite: Small and cheap, but still fast, supports two 2.4 GHz streams and two 5 GHz streams (AC1200). This is the best choice if you'll be getting several APs, which will probably be necessary for you because of all the concrete. If you don't have any devices that support three or four 5 GHz streams, you'll get no benefit from faster APs.

AP Pro: Faster, more expensive, and physically larger than the Lite. Has three streams each of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (AC1750). This is the thing to get if you have lots of 2.4 GHz only devices, as nothing else has this many 2.4 GHz streams.

NanoHD AP: The 5 GHz heavy hitter. Four 5 GHz streams with MU-MIMO, plus two 2.4 GHz streams (AC2030). Slightly more expensive than the Pro, and the same size as the Lite. Supports skins, which allow it to blend in with most common decor. If you have lots of 5 GHz devices that support 3-4 streams, this is the thing to get.

All those APs are intended for ceiling mounting. If you've got any rooms where you have an Ethernet wall jack, but can't really ceiling mount an AP, there's a perfect solution: The In-wall AP. It converts an Ethernet wall jack to an AP with two Ethernet ports on the bottom. Its speeds are equivalent to the Lite. It also comes in a Pro version, with speeds equivalent to the ceiling-mount Pro.

All these APs are powered by PoE (Power over Ethernet) so they don't need power run to them. They include a PoE injector, or you can power them with a PoE switch.

Lastly, you'll need a switch. There are quite a few options here, it depends on your budget and the number of cables you have. The cheapest option is a basic, unmanaged gigabit switch with at least enough ports for everything. These are commonly available with anywhere from from 5 ports to 24 ports. You'll need to use PoE injectors to power your APs with such a switch. The second option is to still use a large unmanaged switch for wall jacks and such, and connect it to a smaller PoE switch that'll power your APs. Prices of PoE switches increase RAPIDLY with the number of PoE ports they have, so try not to get more than you need. The third and most expensive option is a single big PoE switch that has enough ports for everything... something like this.

There's actually one more thing you need... the controller. You can install this on basically anything that has an Ethernet connection to the network, and it doesn't need to run all the time. You only need to run it for initial setup, and for firmware upgrades and configuration changes down the line. A few features, such as traffic monitoring and the Wi-Fi guest portal, require it to always be online. If you do want it to run all the time, it's best to install it on a dedicated, low-power device. The cheapest solution for this is a Raspberry Pi, but it takes some time and know-how to get it set up and running. Ubiquiti makes their own dedicated device for this as well, the Cloud Key. That's the original one, they also have a newer one with a backup battery, which prevents data corruption in a power outage.

> The eeros mesh I am considering is this one:
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> https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WMLPSRL
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>Do you think it would be ok? (Or should I spend a bit more and get the PRO version?)
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The units you linked are relatively new and I have no direct experience with them. However, those units are only "dual band", meaning they only have two radios to communicate with your devices and each other. This is probably OK for lower Internet speeds in the 200Mbps range, but I can't speak for their reliability as I have never used these newer, dual band models.

The ones I'm using, and can recommend without pause, are indeed the 3pack of Pros:

https://www.amazon.com/eero-Pro-WiFi-System-Pros/dp/B071DWXLYL/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=25P73MTAVJTUD&keywords=eero%2Bpro&qid=1574971456&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&sprefix=eero%2Caps%2C223&sr=8-1-spons&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzNzdKU0xISDQzNkhKJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUExMDQwNTA3MlRTSFcyUE8wMVlaViZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjM0NjI4MUUzTjhXM0tPVVI1VyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU&th=1

These are tri-band units (3 radios), and, unlike other mesh systems, eero can use any of the 3 radios to backhaul at any time. Most other mesh units have one dedicated 5ghz radio for this purpose. What this means is better reliability, less wireless airtime contention, and better speeds.

They are pricier, but at $349 on sale right now, I think are worth it over your choice easily. The tri-band is worth that extra money, and the Pro models are the best-in-class for all of mesh currently, IMHO. I'd even recommend them at the full $499 price.

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>I'm a little concerned about placement. Do these sit on a counter or something? Or can I attach them higher up to the wall? Or do they plug into the electrical plug near the floor?

They plug into the wall using USB C and a little USB-to-wallplug adapter similar to what you get with your phone (but eero needs high amps, so not just any USB C adapter would work). They are otherwise wireless, so no other connection is needed. The cord is like 5-6 feet or so.

I have one unit sitting on a hallway table, and then I bought and use these cradles that hold the eero Pro right on the power plug for the other two:

https://www.amazon.com/Holder-Simplest-Bracket-System-Router/dp/B07F12C6TY/ref=pd_sbs_147_1/140-5119736-7531529?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07F12C6TY&pd_rd_r=a7f013a0-bcf7-494f-9b84-374d848e354a&pd_rd_w=a2r2B&pd_rd_wg=wYw71&pf_rd_p=5873ae95-9063-4a23-9b7e-eafa738c2269&pf_rd_r=12PB5H7G7ZDAFA0RT3ME&psc=1&refRID=12PB5H7G7ZDAFA0RT3ME

The whole beauty of the system is how easy they are to rearrange to get the best coverage. That's why I'm confident you'll find some configuration that works, trying a new location for them takes seconds.

If you need concentrated coverage somewhere temporarily (like outside for a BBQ), you just unplug and move the eero near there, then move it back after the party is over.

Here are your options for home wifi networking:

1. Buy a super strong wifi router and you're good to go even in a large home - as long as you don't live in a repurposed bomb shelter. An example of a "super strong" router: here
   
2. Buy a normal router or your current one and add access points. An example of a "normal" router: here . An access point (AP) is not a wifi extender. You must run a cable (CAT 5E/ CAT 6) from your router to the location where you need improved wifi signal, there you plug in the AP and attach the Ethernet cable from the router. The AP simply turns a wired connection into a wireless one and broadcasts the same network as that coming from your router. An example of an AP: here .
   
3. Buy a normal router or your current router and use a wifi extender(s). I wifi extender receives packets from your wireless router, ups the signal strength, and then forwards them to a nearby host. If you are having poor signal at point B and the router is at point A then put the extender directly in the middle of the 2; I have seen so many people make the mistake of putting the extender at point B, which defeats the whole purpose because it is just your host device's antenna vs the extender's.
   
4. An extender/AP all in one device. An example: here
   
5. A mesh wifi system. It can be difficult to distinguish a multi-AP/ multi-extender setup from a mesh system, but the main differences are that the mesh will be easier to setup and more "polished" in general. A mesh system will automatically detect the SSID (network name) from the wifi router and extend it. Want to add a signal booster? With mesh you can buy another matching unit and use WPS for a one button setup. The mesh is also smart in identifying when you move from one area to another ans switching to the closer device to server you your packets. Now, this is seen in some higher end APs and extenders such as here , but its not as seamless and usually more expensive in the long run. An example of a mesh system: here
   
   APs are generally more stable (UBIQUITI makes great ones) due to the wired connection. I like using APs because I can buy as I need more and set some up on different VLANs and hide SSIDs, but those are more advanced options. For most people who do not want to run cable or go with more of a permanent networking setup, the easiest and most effective solution is generally a mesh system. The TP-Link one is great as well as Google WiFi.
   
   EDITED: Because the bot thought I was using affiliate links...

I'm a fan of Samsung Smart Things. Supports a lot of devices and protocols. They even have a home router(access point) 3-pack now where each access point acts as a hub or repeater.

Here's about everything I've considered when putting mine together:

• If your fixture has more than two bulbs and you don't need individual control of the bulbs in the fixture, think about getting a smart switch instead.
  
• Watch out for smart home devices that need a WiFi bridge. You can buy them, just make sure you get the bridge if its needed.
  
• I personally prefer my security cameras separate from my smart home stuff. I have mine on an isolated network(VLAN). Some people isolate all their smart home devices on it's own network.
  
• Avoid monthly fees. For example, most cameras that store video in the cloud will require a monthly fee.
  
• Anything that is wireless has to have a battery somewhere and it will need replacing at some point.
  
• Get a chamberlain smart garage opener
  
• Make sure your network is built to handle all these devices and ensure they'll work together. The Smart Things 3-pack would really solve this with one purchase.
  
• Choose your voice assistant. Alexa and Google Home both work with smart things. I personally went with Google Home because I found some really good deals on them.
  
• Any device from a different manufacturer will probably require an app for initial setup. Example, honeywell thermostat = honeywell app, smart things sensors = smart things app, phillips hue bulbs = phillips hue app, august smart lock = august app. Nice thing is that once it's setup, if you have something like Alexa or Google home in your house, you don't really need to use the app again unless you change a setting.
  

It has been decided that we can not run a cable so now the options are the mesh system and it appears there are some good options out there. Can you please help choose which model would best to go with for longevity of product, security if possible, and reliability?

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Looks like the Netgear Orbi RBK50 is on sale around $90 off, but only has two points?

LINK for Ultra Performance Orbi RBK50 (2 points) - would 2 points be enough?

LINK for NetGear Orbi RBK33 (3 points)

Deco M4 3-Pack

Deco M5 3-Pack

Google WiFi system, 3-Pack

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Budget is to $300 and under.

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So my Cox cable modem is also a router so I presume I would plug the main router into the modem router, disable the Cox network and only use the new network routing system? Or what would be the best configuration here?

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( I like the idea of having a guest network and putting any unsecure or unsure devices on the guest network, i would presume the guest network has same speed as the primary network right? )

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Thanks for your guys helps so far! Definitely appreciate it :)

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EDIT: Also want to make sure it works well with iOS devices since that will be the majority of devices connected.

Well what you need depends on what you have, and where you want to go.

If I was doing this from scratch, assuming there's 30ish users and maybe 100mbit of internet with no need for an ultra high speed VPN

I'd probably get a [Netgate APU4 router[(http://store.netgate.com/APU4.aspx), a Netgear GS752TP 48 port powered smart switch, and some Ubiquiti 802.11ac access points. Note if you don't need 802.11ac, Ubiquiti's UAP-PRO will save you about $80 over the 802.11ac version.

Some may not love the idea of Netgear switches and may recommend something higher end IE HP ProCurve or Cisco. I suggest avoid Cisco if possible for switches as they are very expensive and harder to configure, although in a 100% Cisco environment that can be useful. HP ProCurve are nice, but Netgear gives you lots of bang for your buck... just upgrade your switch firmware first. Netgear's management interface for VLANs isn't as nice as HPs, but their switches are very cost effective and I've not had a problem with them.

The switch I spec'd supports 802.3af (PoE) on all ports, so it can power gadgets like access points, VoIP phones, and security cameras. The first 8 ports also have 802.3at (PoE+), a higher power PoE needed for the 802.11ac access points. Having all your ports powered gives you the flexibility to upgrade to VoIP later on and add PoE security cameras etc etc, but you can save a couple hundred by using a non-powered main switch with a smaller powered switch to just drive the APs. Personally I don't think that's worth it though as the savings aren't that much and you lose a lot of flexibility.

I'd wire this all up and setup some VLANs. Note that some Netgear switches make default VLANs 2 and 3, so don't use those numbers unless you're using the Netgear AutoVOIP thing (which can be useful in some scenarios, it automatically puts VoIP phones on a separate VLAN, but annoying when you don't want it).

For your VLANs- I suggest setup one VLAN as a guest network, one VLAN as a main network (for work to get one), and optionally one VLAN as a management network (management interfaces only exposed to that, increases security at cost of slightly increased complexity). If you run VoIP phones, they may want their own VLAN also.

Hope that's at least a little bit useful...

Invest in your company, invest in your infrastructure.

I'm going to demur from your provided list, and instead offer an alternative solution. Just hear me out before you look for sticker shock (all prices in USD).

Ubiquiti 24-port Gigabit Switch with PoE ($379)

Ubiquiti Unifi Security Gateway ($129)

Ubiquiti Unifi Cloud Key Gen2 ($195)

Ubiquiti Unfi UAP-AC-PRO-E 2-pack ($290)

Total cost: $993

Why am I suggesting you spend almost three times the average cost of one of those small-business routers? A few reasons.

First is performance. Ubiquiti makes 'prosumer' / Enterprise level equipment. The Access Points (APs, last entry) are each rated for 200+ simultaneous connections. When deployed right, you'll probably connect to one consistently; the other will be used by the network to identify which WiFi channels are least congested and migrate you and your clients to those less congested frequencies. In the end, that's your real problem: congestion. With 62 competing access points, it can be hard for your devices to 'hear' your router. So you need a product with some real oomph to get your AP heard. Ubiquiti can do that in spades.

The second is professionalism. What looks better to a client? A plastic black box on a desk somewhere, or an access point hung from the ceiling, like you'd find in a fortune 500 company's headquarters? ubiquit's stuff is slick, sleek, and professional.

So what are you getting for your money?

The switch (first entry) is used to provide power to the Access Points (PoE: Power over Ethernet), and since you have some extra ports there, you can also run a connection to a server, or hardwired connection to laptops, or whatever you might come up with.

The security gateway is the real 'router' in this set up, but it has no wifi capability built in; this is why you need the Access Points. The way it works, you would take your ISP's modem, set it to bridge mode, and then connect the modem to the security gateway, and the security gateway to the switch.

The cloud key is the brains of the network. It will host the controller software and allow you to set up the wifi. While this software can in theory be run on any device, this particular cloud key also contains a hard drive - very useful if you'd like to install security cameras in the office (I'm sure your insurance company would be VERY grateful, if you dont have these already). As a side note, Ubiquiti does make PoE-powered security cameras.

This setup will 100% guarantee that your wifi is the dominant 'voice' in your office. You won't have dropouts, you won't have connection issues, and this setup is very expandable - 1 port for the gateway, 1 port for the cloud key, 2 for the APs, (ideally) 5 for wired connections for you and your coworkers - that still leaves 13 connections on the switch, which means you can still expand this if you hire more employees. If you find you need a backup ISP, there's a grade higher security gateway that can handle redundant ISP connections. If you need to cover more area with WiFi, you can add another access point.

Make the setup look really professional and install everything into a patch panel cabinet like this one

Hire an electrician who specializes in running ethernet cable, and have them mount the APs in your ceiling (super easy if you have a drop ceiling. If not, its more difficult, but not by any means impossible). While they're there, have them run at least one ethernet line to everyone's desk.

edit: and less you think I'm blowing smoke up your ass, I use a frighteningly similar setup in my own home. Yes, it's overkill, no I don't care. It's the most stable WiFi I've had in a house in my life.

Hi,
yes, Separate modem + Router is always better than Combo devices but it also depends on your needs and use-cases
read this link and see where you land: http://pickmymodem.com/cable-modem-wi-fi-modem-router-combo-one-buy/
for Suggestions om Combo devices: 1. C7000 AC1900 is pretty good http://amzn.to/2nbGF21 2. Motorola MG7550 is good as well and I have seen many good reviews http://amzn.to/2nB50PR
Both of these are Broadcom based and dont have latency issue which has plagued Puma6. Dont buy Low power WIFI Combos as you will regret later.
If you have high budget, I suggest you go separate modem + Separate Router
Modems: http://pickmymodem.com/approved-modems-for-xfinity-internet-service/
SB6183 (http://amzn.to/2minyUV) OR CM600 (http://amzn.to/2mG4zPi) are good choices
Routers: NETGEAR R7000 AC1900 (http://amzn.to/2qnhZG2) OR TPLink Archer C9 (http://amzn.to/2pRApP3)
Mesh??: Do you want Best WIFI range and have budget? then go for MESH WIFI systems: 1. NETGEAR Orbi RBK50 Kit http://amzn.to/2pq1ojA 2. Google MESH WIFI system http://amzn.to/2qmYqO7

Yeah I'd put money on that being the source of your problem. The 2.4GHz spectrum is already crowded with so many things: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, wireless devices like keyboards, mice, game controllers, etc. Add an entire household of devices and the poor network is going to be crying for mercy.

So you have a few choices going forward:

• There might already be a separate 5GHz network available. Do you see anything like YourNetworkName-5G?
  
• Switch the WOW gateway to 5 GHz, if it's even supported by the device. WOW tech support might be able help with this. If you can find the model number on the device, I might be able to dig up the directions.
  
• Get your own router. Put the gateway into "passthrough" mode and turn off its Wi-Fi, the use your router for 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Most new devices are dual-band. I like this Netgear R6700.
  
• If you want a completely hands-off approach, at the cost $14.99/month, call up WOW and have them switch you over to their Whole-Home WiFi, which uses Eero devices, which are pretty good from what I hear.
  
• Combine the last two options and buy your own Eero devices. Given the cost of WOW's whole-home service, this will pay for itself in about two years. ($393.30 / $14.99/mo = ~26 months)
  
  Edit: typos

The plaster is going to make things difficult, but not impossible. It does mean that you probably want to go with a mesh system. One of my coworkers is in a similar situation and he has two of google's wifi aps. https://www.amazon.com/Google-WiFi-system-1-Pack-replacement/dp/B01MDJ0HVG/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?keywords=google+wifi&qid=1555609363&s=gateway&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1

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I feel like there are better options out there, but they kind of depend on how much setup you are willing to tolerate. The google aps are very easy to set up and if one won't cut it for your coverage needs, adding a second should.

For a media streaming setup it may be your cheapest/least stressful option.

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Ubiquiti is another mesh option or Ruckus which is more of an enterprise solution. Ruckus is what I have at home and the radios are some of the best I've seen. Coverage is fantastic but they are fairly pricey. I still recommend the google wifi just for ease of use and price.

Thanks for replying. To be more specific, here is what I see on amazon:

1. $346 3 pk Amplifi HD: https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-High-Density-Home-Wi-Fi-System/dp/B01L9O08PW
   
2. $299 3 pk Google Wifi: https://www.amazon.com/Google-Wifi-system-set-replacement/dp/B01MAW2294
   
3. $299 3 pk Luma: https://www.amazon.com/Luma-Whole-Home-WiFi-System/dp/B017DV1BPG
   
4. $499 3 pk Linksys Velop: https://www.amazon.com/Linksys-Tri-band-AC6600-System-WHW0303/dp/B01N2NLNEH
   
5. $179 3 pk Plume: https://www.plumewifi.com/store
   
   I'm sure there are more in the pipeline.
   
   Orbi is only a 2 pk for $379, so that is not competitive, and has that horrible Netgear UI, so Eero has that beat hands down. I guess Linksys can afford to be so uncompetitive since they have a broad base of products. I've rebooted a Linksys router enough times to not want to trust them at any price point.
   
   Eero 3 pk is currently $454. Even with that discount from $499 MSRP, I'm not sure how well that competes with much of the above.
   
   I do appreciate the company support input here and on the community page on the website, so that is worth something. If you are using Netgear components, thank God you aren't using their UI. Still, I am very concerned about these eeros turning into very expensive bricks if the company cannot sell these at a competitive price point and goes south. Will they still work if there is no cloud?
   
   Most people will buy a Honda over a Lexus due to price, and luxury manufacturers have to sell to a different segment by differentiating themselves with perhaps better performance, service, or emotional appeal in a clear manner, where luxury buyers understand why they are paying more. I'm not sure how buyers will make such a connection between price and quality when the reviews are all generally comparable. There are a lot of reviews where people try one product and find another performs satisfactorily, so I can't see a consensus opinion that the Eero outperforms everyone else. Personally, I would like to have a better idea why these components are superior to the competition, but for the sake of the company, it probably needs to do a better job explaining that to the masses if they are going to use a luxury pricing model. Or is it just over-engineered for the task at hand? After all, we will all be looking to replace these in a few short years in the face of newer, better WiFi protocols. I don't need a 20 year router, but if you told me this better build quality results in fewer reboots than the cheaper competition, that would be worth something too.

Had the Netgear R7000 for a while and while it was pretty good it wasn't perfect. Switched to Ubiquiti EdgeRouter Lite with an access point and it was great but too complicated for the average user. Ubiquiti finally release a home-oriented router called Amplifi, I switched to it and won't ever look back.

A couple months ago my sister who is completely tech illiterate asked me for a new router and I told her to get one as well. She messaged me just a couple days ago to say "Thank you for the router suggestion...it is awesome. Works way better throughout the whole house than our old one. I love the app too."

https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-High-Density-Home-Wi-Fi-System/dp/B01L9O07FS?th=1

You really need to have more than one AP for this. Even if you got a top-of-the-line $1000+ Cisco AP you can't handle that many clients over that much area, especially with walls. The "right" way to do this is typically to have an AP for each classroom, with placement and channels determined by a professional survey.

It sounds like you won't have the budget to do it the right way, so the next best is to get some inexpensive APs and put them in the middle of any high-use areas. Ceiling is the best place. I would not do less than 3 for this use case. I know you said that you don't have budget to run cable, but the time it will waste for students and teachers dealing with an insufficient setup would be a great disservice worth more than the ~$1000 dollars it would cost to run cable and buy APs.

Unifi is probably a good brand to look at for your use case. Solid hardware that's inexpensive. UAP-AC-Pro is best (especially convenient if you might ever have a POE switch), but the UAP-AC-Lite might be ok.

Another option (that I am not recommending) if you absolutely can't run cable might be to get one of the several brands of home-use mesh systems:

https://www.amazon.com/eero-Home-WiFi-System-Pack/dp/B00XEW3YD6

https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-High-Density-Home-Wi-Fi-System/dp/B01L9O08PW

Others here may have more experience with Wi-Fi at retail locations, but I'm afraid all I can offer is experienced based on home and small office installations.

Any dual-band access point should work pretty well for you (that supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands). You can look for devices that support either 802.11ac or 802.11b/g/n. AC is newer and faster and is backwards compatible, but the devices often cost more. You'd want an AC device if you can afford it.

For a retail environment you'd probably want to use something like the Ubiquiti UniFi UAP Pro, the Ubiquiti UniFi AC. The Apple Airport Extreme would also be a decent choice, but they are more designed for home use.

You will also need to consider how many wireless clients you will have. In my experience, an Apple Airport Extreme can only handle 20-25 connected devices before it starts to have speed issues. The Ubiquiti hardware is a bit better, but I typically plan 1 wifi access point for every 30 estimated devices.

Make sure the access points are connected to a central switch by ethernet.

I believe they are talking about these.

https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-SmartThings-Extender-Functionality-Whole-Home/dp/B07FCQ726C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1538835340&sr=8-1&keywords=smartthings+wifi

As a note I have those and they work extremely well. There are the best mesh routers I have tried yet, I had Plume Superpods before this and they were excellent also but Samsung is basically those but with SmartThings built in so I returned the superpods and for these. The Plume tech really does work well and the APs are zigbee and zwave repeaters/extenders also. Makes for an extremely solid backbone to all my equipment both normal WiFi and smart devices.

These are an easy recommendation from me anyway, they work great.

Depends what you want. From Comcast's perspective, all you need at a minimum is a compatible cable modem. It's easier if it's on their approved list. Any would likely work, but you'll have less issues if anything goes wrong if you choose one from here. Here's their link:

https://mydeviceinfo.xfinity.com/

The cable modem connects to your cable line, outputs an ethernet connection that you can then use with the rest of your equipment. At that point, you probably need a wireless router, unless you're just plugging a single computer into the modem itself. The router plugs into your cable modem, and expands your network from being just a single ethernet port, to any wireless devices you want to connect to it. It also might have additional ethernet ports on it if you want to connect directly (wired will be better performance than wireless).

Most people recommend keeping the cable modem and wireless routers separate, as you then can upgrade/replace separately if needed. But there are options where they are combined all in one single device, which might be helpful for simple networks. To find those combined devices, just check "built-in wifi" on the xfinity device page, and it will show you those compatible models.

A separate Wifi router that plugs into the cable modem can be just about anything you like, from the cheapest setup up to a whole house mesh with several different access points. They are all "compatible" with Xfinity, as all of them will just plug right into the cable modem to connect up to the network.

If you do end up going with a separate cable modem / wireless router setup, it is sometimes useful to put the cable modem in "bridging" mode. This means that the cable modem sometimes functions as a router as well by default, even if it's just a modem. Then by putting another router behind it, it can sometimes cause issues, especially if you have people on your network with game consoles and some other similar uses. Bridge mode turns off most/all routing from the modem, and the wireless router behind the modem is the only device performing routing - it receives the external IP address as far as Xfinity is concerned, not the cable modem's ethernet port.

My recommendation, for what it's worth, would be the Motorola MB8600 (~$150), with the Google Wifi setup ($100 for one, $260 for 3), 1 puck for each 1500 sq ft of house.

>My home set up right now:
>
>Voice control with google home and multiple google minis
>
>Chromecast
>
>Lutron Caseta In-wall dimmers
>
>Nest thermostat
>
>Some off brand wifi outlet plugs
>
>​
>
>Planning on:
>
>Nest Hello
>
>Smart lock, likely the Yale Assure SL (Not sure Z-wave vs Zigbee vs August)
>
>Presence sensor/key FOB
>
>Google Home hub

So you and I have very similar setups. I have 7x Google Homes, a Nest Hello, a Ecobee and some wired door sensors connected via Konnected.IO. A few random wifi devices too, like a Bond Fan Controller and a Yeelight.

I use this: Samsung SmartThings Wifi Mesh Router Range Extender SmartThings Hub Functionality Whole-Home WiFi Coverage - Zigbee, Z-Wave, Cloud to Cloud Protocols - White (3 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FCQ726C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_8-j6BbTHNCJVT

Works awesome. Mesh network that literally all of my devices connect to. I tell Google goodnight, it shuts off my living room fan, lights, kitchen lights, then notifies me if my front, back, or garage door is open. Is it as full featured as some of other hubs nah... But it works solid and was super easy to get going.

If you aren't comfortable spending $200 more but still want the better radios, getting the pack with one eero and two Beacons might be the way to go. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0713ZCT4N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_PXjVzbXH7SZXA

Plus, if you have an old networking device and a Best Buy around, you can recycle that there for an extra 15% discount.
Edit: another user mentioned that Best Buy matched the Amazon price on top of the 15%, so you could try that.

I'm not really sure what you mean by lackluster. My AC Pros have all been wonderful and perfectly stable. Looking at my Unifi controller, I have pushed 1.57 TB of data through one of them just this week alone. I do have a high degree of control over the wireless network through the Unifi controller. Also in Unifi, there is really granular visibility about clients, interference, stats, etc...I have tried using various consumer grade wireless routers I have and put them into AP mode and my Ubiquiti AP's blow them out of the water in regards to stability, performance, and range.

If you are looking to have consumer grade ease of use with Ubiquiti, you will want to go with the Unifi product line and not get the EdgeRouter. So instead of the EdgeRouter, you would get the USG for $110. They are the same hardware, but the USG runs a different firmware than the EdgeRouter. You dont HAVE to use all unifi products...but if you use only unifi AP's only the AP's can be configured from Unifi, and the EdgeRouter can be configured via EdgeOS in the WebUI. Unifi...well...unifies everything in the same UI.


Take a look at this vid explaining the difference between EdgeRouter and USG: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XvWOx3PvYFM


Adding 2 AP's for $80 (Lite) to $130 (Pro) for a total of $270-370...

Within that range is another option, the AmpliFi HD (By Ubiquiti as well) for $325:

https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-High-Density-Home-Wi-Fi-System/dp/B01L9O08PW

You also can get single mesh points for coverage to be used with your existing router, for $125 each.

I have not tried these myself...but with how dead simple they seem to be from YouTube vids...I am feeling pretty comfortable dropping this in my parents network and not having to worry about stability. There are tons of YouTube videos explaining the Amplifi product, pros and cons. It is really consumer friendly and the mesh technology is very flexible and you can change its physical configuration easily.

Get two Amplifi HD Routers or Google WiFi Pucks wired together using two MOCA Ethernet Adapters. Those would serve you well for your apartment. I say this because I’m guessing you have cable outlets in your computer room for the cable modem and outlets in the living room for a TV.

With a MOCA adapter and Amplifi HD or Google WiFi Puck setup in each of those locations you would see 450mbps speeds near the routers, and good WiFi signal throughout the apartment with gigabit wired Ethernet available in the Computer Room and Living Room.

I’ve had great luck with my Amplifi HD system (3 routers) and with Google WiFi.

Both are easy setup and give you great WiFi speeds but realize that no system aside from unreleased 802.11AX routers will give you gigabit speeds wirelessly.

Ethernet wired Google WiFi pucks and Amplifi HD routers give me around 450mbps max. That’s about the best you can get until the 802.11AX stuff comes to market and even then your devices won’t be able to use it.

If you choose to setup Google WiFi or Amplifi systems using the wireless mesh, speeds will be further reduced (220mbps or less depending on signal). Nevertheless that should be more than adequate for what you listed for your uses.

Amplifi is running a special right now for $100 off for switching from a competitive system. You might try that.

Wired connections are always more secure and receive the strongest, most consistent signal.

That said, I'd recommend getting a Ubiquity AP. For the money, it's a great solution. If you want to put out more money, get a powerful wifi router like a Nighthawk.

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2398080,00.asp

https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-Enterprise-System-AP-Pro-UAP-PRO/dp/B00HXT8T5O/ref=sr_1_14?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1468531893&sr=1-14&keywords=Ubiquiti

How many square feet is your house? Do you have plaster walls, by chance?

Just to add some more detail on Godfrey’s WiFi improvement suggestion, since I just had to research this last week:

Cheap WiFi amplifiers like Godfrey was talking about are definitely useful, but in the context of a “high end” option, they would not be my suggestion.

Depending on your particular needs, I’d recommend either a better router—this applies primarily to people who use the default ISP equipment—or a mesh network.

Without getting too technical, a mesh network will offer a better experience than an extender. I just got this setup:

NETGEAR Orbi Ultra-Performance Whole Home Mesh WiFi System - WiFi router and single satellite extender with speeds up to 3Gbps over 5,000 sq. feet, AC3000 (RBK50)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K4CZOBS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_KpEuDbED7J5Q4

Cost was appx 285. I’m returning the ISP equipment so that will knock a few bucks off the monthly bill. I’m going with this upgrade mostly for performance, and not price, though.

Should be arriving today or tomorrow so I can’t offer a review yet, but I’m confident based on research that it should be what I’m looking for.

I suggest going with a tri-band wifi mesh system if you want to maximize your connection speeds, which usually is a little more costly but can give you better speed/latency.

https://thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-wi-fi-mesh-networking-kits/

That's a decent place to look for some information. I don't always find their recommendations to be the best, but they usually do a pretty decent job of explaining various things they are reviewing and what to look for.

Google Wifi mesh doesn't score well in most of the reviews I've seen.

Eero Pro
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DWXLYL

Netgear Orbi
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K4CZOBS

I listed the links to those last two because they are reviewed in The Wirecutter link above and you can see they test well, but they aren't in their top recommendations because of price mostly. Netgear Orbi does have some complaints about firmware as well. Those two above are all tri-band, while the ones that get the recommendations are in most cases a mix of tri-band and dual band devices.

As far as what ones offer a non-cloud management interface, I don't know on that front. Edit: From what I can tell, it looks like two of the recommendations they make, the D-Link Covr system, has a local web management interface as well as the Synology system. The Eero devices seem to be cloud based management, and I'm not sure on the Netgear Orbi but I believe I've set one of those up before locally.

It’s expensive but I’ve found it to be a worthy investment and expect it to operate for the next few years.

A less expensive but highly rated option would be TP Link’s Deco M5 which is Amazon’s deal of the day at $200. I have no experience with this.

An even less expensive option would be using the most basic DOCSIS 3.0 (I think that’s what they want you to have?) modem you’d need for your ISP, and a simple AP/Router combo as shes mainly wifi anyway.

A cost effective option I have experience with is this Modem/Router/AP at $80, specifically with Cablevision and Spectrum. It’s not officially supported but works perfectly. This was a great setup for a workplace setting for people’s phones, tablets, printers, and a few people streaming movies and Sling on chromecasts where their computers were hardwired onto another network.

By gig blast I assume you mean fiber maybe? Here is the fiber version of the router. Ubiquiti Edgerouter X SFP - Router - Desktop - Black (ER-X-SFP) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012X45WH6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-C7sDbRNTZ9DC

Access points: Ubiquiti Networks Unifi 802.11ac Dual-Radio PRO Access Point (UAP-AC-PRO-US) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015PRO512/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_eE7sDbCT7FFQT

The access points will act purely as a bridge from wireless to wired (aka not a router, just wifi) with your home's size I'd recommend probably 3 or possibly 4 of them depending on how well you want the wifi to reach. This type of wifi will be mesh meaning you'll only have one ssid and your phone will connect to whichever AP is closer automatically. (Youd need to download a controller software to a PC)

Again, this is just the most optimal setup and required a little bit knowledge of the devices and general networking to setup.

If you're strictly looking for good but plug and play this would be the best route: AmpliFi HD WiFi System by Ubiquiti Labs, Seamless Whole Home Wireless Internet Coverage, HD WiFi Router, 2 Mesh Points, 4 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 WAN Port, Ethernet Cable, Replaces Router & WiFi Extenders https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9O08PW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_oH7sDbKR37G0G

Hope this helps clear things up!

Yes, that helps greatly.

First, being unable to acquire additional IPv4 address is unfortunate. The additional address would have greatly simplified the overall headache involved and allowed each residence to essentially have their own standalone internet connection with whatever portion of the fibre bandwidth you allocated to them. Without them you can still do it, you're just looking at NATing your single IP to all the devices which complicates things such as port forwarding, introduces the possibility of dual-NAT configurations, and increases the likely hood of that shared IP being abused and potentially blacklisted on a service because of the actions of one user affecting the rest of the users.

I would suggest a pfSense (or OPNsense) gateway hooked up to your modem or ONT, this will handle the NAT, VLANs, DHCP and traffic shaping. If you don't buy or build a pfSense box with at least 8 ports, hook this up to a managed switch. One line run from this to each of the wire-able units on your attached building plus one to the roof for a wireless AP.

Because the distance across the road is short and looks to be mostly clear LOS with sparse trees - you can approach the wireless AP a couple of ways. If you plan on only offering a 100Mbit/s or so to each "customer", you could get away with 3 Ubiquiti AirMax NanoStation Loco M5 units. One on your roof to act as the AP and broadcast the signal across the road and 2 on the other building across the road for each unit. Just easier to put up a receiving station at each unit that wants to join vs sharing a single one - I can get into the reasons why if you'd like.

If you're planning on providing more than a 100Mbit/s to each person than you can consider the same setup but substitue for the newer Ubiquiti NanoBeam AC units for a slightly increased cost.

It is also possible to do this all under the Unifi umbrella if you so choose. It is slightly more costly but is definitely more user-friendly and easier to manage under one interface. Here I would suggest you replace the broadcast AP with a Ubiquiti Unifi UAP-AC-M-Pro and each receiving station with a Ubiquiti Unifi UAP-AC-M. Note these are omni-directional antennas now, they lose the benefits that come from directional APs but at the distances we are looking at here that should be a negligible difference.

A real rough hierarchy layout here: https://i.imgur.com/QV0qfq6.png

Each individual unit is isolated from each other and you by being on their own VLAN, to which you will configure only gateway access on each VLAN with no cross VLAN routes.

When it comes to what is happening on each units internal network, you can do one of a few things. You could still allow them to use any ol' router they choose, hook up to the WAN port on said router and NAT their own internal network. This will work fine, albeit behind double NAT, it will take a good portion of the internal routing load off your pfSense box and only involve it when the client needs to get out to the net. Or you could handle all the internal routing and just have them use a switch and AP (if they want wifi in their unit) - you could get real fancy with this way but it adds a lot more potential for trouble on your part, the other option is likely the easier one.

Lastly, regarding authentication, you could take it one step further and utilize the PPPoE server on pfSense to give each unit their own PPPoE username and password they need to use to authenticate against your router. No username and password = no IP = no internet. Useful for revoking access to one user who doesn't pay their portion without having to physically go over and unplug them.

Sorry for the wall of text. These kind of setups are fun and I've dealt with a lot of similar setups for different applications.

I had Wyze cameras and had 3D printed outdoor housings but the quality wasn't great at night after our last run in.

Went Ubiquiti. Three G3-FLEX cameras (four tonight) and ran some CAT6 with a powerline adapter for the camera you see above. I'm runing the UniFi Video software on an old Mac mini with a 5TB USB HD but I'm strongly considering one of their CloudKey Gen 2+ to dedicate specific hardware for the cameras/network.

The interface is fantastic, the camera quality is fantastic (they also offer a 4K camera though $$$), and security hardened. I like the idea of them being wired to take that busy constant video traffic off of wifi.

Edit: added links

Mac Mini (2018 model), named NOSTROMO

• 3.2 GHz Hexa-Core Core i7 CPU
  
• 32 GB of RAM
  
• 256 GB PCIe boot volume
  
• 2 TB external rotating drive for Time Machine Backups, connected via Thunderbolt 3 / USB-C
  
• Dual 8 TB Western Digital Elements USB 3.0 drives for content, VOL1 and VOL2. VOL1 is replicated to VOL2, both are connected via Thunderbolt 3 / USB-C. These handy adapter cables allow you to connect a traditional USB 3.0 device into a Thunderbolt 3 port.
  
• Single 4 TB SeaGate Plus USB 3.0 drive which contains the majority of my media content, VOL5. It is a "floater" drive which I always carry in my backpack to have the majority of my content with me at all times.
  
• Running Mac OS 10.14.6 Server
  
• Dual 27” Apple Thunderbolt Displays connected to the Mac Mini, daisy-chained off a single Thunderbolt 3 port using a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter.
  
• This Mac Mini is what I use to host all of my iTunes content to the three Apple TVs in my home
  
  
  

  Mac Mini (2010 model), named SPUNKMEYER
  

  
  

• 2.4 GHz Core 2 Duo CPU
  
• 16 GB of RAM
  
• 100 GB SSD boot volume
  
• 500 GB traditional drive for Time Machine Backups
  
• Running Mac OS 10.13.6 Server
  
  
  

  MacBook Pro Retina 15” (2015 model), named SULACO
  

  
  

• 2.2 GHz Quad-Core Core i7 CPU
  
• 16 GB of RAM
  
• 256 GB SSD
  
• Running Mac OS 10.14.6 Client
  
• Time Machine Backups are being taken both on the 2018 Mac Mini as well as the 2010 Mac Mini
  
  
  

  Mac Mini (2012 model), named FERRO
  

  
  

• This Mac is located at Mom & Dad’s about 1,000 miles away. It is a complete offsite backup of all of my content, it is also used for Time Machine backups of my mother’s Mac Mini and my niece’s MacBook Pro. I have both Remote Desktop and SSH access via the magic of port forwarding. Whenever I add a new movie, I place it is my Shared Dropbox folder, then about 30 minutes later it is available on the backup Mac Mini. I then move it over to VOL3, and all of my content is always in sync.
  
• 2.5 GHz Dual-Core Core i5 CPU
  
• 16 GB of RAM
  
• 120 GB SSD boot volume
  
• 500 GB traditional drive for Time Machine Backups
  
• Single 8 TB Western Digital Elements USB 3.0 drive for storing and hosting content, VOL3. It is a complete duplicate of VOL1/VOL2.
  
• Running Mac OS 10.14.6 Server
  
  
  

  Mac Mini (2012 model), named AURIGA
  

  
  

• This Mac is located at my sister's house about 1,000 miles away. It is a complete offsite backup of all of my movies and TV shows, it is also used for Time Machine backups of my sister's MacBook Pro and my other niece’s MacBook. I have both Remote Desktop and SSH access via the magic of port forwarding. Whenever I add a new movie, I place it is my Shared Dropbox folder, then about 30 minutes later it is available on the backup Mac Mini. I then move it over to VOL4, and all of my content is always in sync.
  
• 2.5 GHz Dual-Core Core i5 CPU
  
• 16 GB of RAM
  
• 256 GB SSD boot volume
  
• 500 GB traditional drive for Time Machine Backups
  
• Single 4 TB Seagate Backup Plus USB 3.0 drive (VOL4) for storing and hosting content, VOL4. As it is only a 4 TB volumes, it contains only the moves and television shows which are on VOL1, VOL2, and VOL3.
  
• Running Mac OS 10.14.6 Server
  
  
  Both the 2012 Minis and the 2010 Mini are completely headless. Unfortunately, this means that accessing them via remote desktop gives you a measly 800x600 resolution. I use this handy little gadget on both of them to replicate a 1920x1080 display being connected. So, when I connect via Screen Sharing I get a nice big display.
  
  
  

  MacBook Pro (2018 model), named APLC02XV5W1JGH5
  

  
  

• 2.2 GHz Six-Core Intel Core i7 CPU
  
• 16 GB of RAM
  
• 500 GB SSD
  
• Running Mac OS 10.14.5 Client
  
• This is my work-provided laptop, mostly used for remote access. It is pretty locked down, I am not a local administrator so I cannot even rename it to fit my naming scheme
  
  
  

  iPad Pro 10.5", named APONE
  

  
  

• 2.38 GHz Apple A10X CPU
  
• 4 GB of RAM
  
• 256 GB of storage
  
• Running iOS 13.0 Public Beta
  
  
  

  iPhone X, named RIPLEY
  

  
  

• 2.4 GHz Apple A11 Bionic CPU
  
• 3 GB of RAM
  
• 256 GB of storage
  
• Running iOS 12.4
  
  
  LG Blu-Ray reader/writer in connected to NOSTROMO via USB 3.0, used for ripping Blu-Rays and DVDs
  
  Sabrent USB 3.0 Dual-Bay Hard Drive Dock, also connected to NOSTROMO via USB 3.0
  
  The microphone is a Yeti Blue with a Nady Pop Filter, coupled with a Logitech HD C310, used for Google Hangouts and FaceTime calls with the fam, and the occasional podcast. It is mounted on a RODE PSA1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm and a RADIUS II Microphone Shock Mount.
  
  The mousepad is an XTracPads Ripper XXL mousepad
  
  The chair is a Raynor Ergohuman ME7ERG desk chair
  
  I use Dropbox to expertly keep my content in sync. Due to the amount of content I keep in there, it is well worth the $100 per year for a Dropbox Pro subscription.
  
  
  Additionally throughout the house, I have...
  3 Eeros for my Mesh Wireless Network WiFi System
  2 Apple TVs (4K), named ASH and CALL
  1 Apple TV (4th Generation), named BISHOP
  1 Apple HomePod, named DIETRICH
  1 Nest Hello Video Doorbell, named HELLO
  1 Nest Learning Thermostat, named NEST (yeah, original af, I know)
  2 WyzeCam Pans, named WYZE-Kitchen and WYZE-LivingRoom
  4 WeMo Smart Plugs, named WEMO-Foyer, WEMO-SpareBedroom, WEMO-MasterBedroom, and WEMO-LivingRoom
  1 Amazon Echo Plus, named ECHO-LivingRoom
  2 Amazon Echoes (First-Generation), named ECHO-MasterBedroom and ECHO-Kitchen
  2 Amazon Echo Dots, named DOT-Office, and DOT-SpareBedroom
  4 Google Home Minis
  1 Brother HL-L2395DW Wireless Laser Printer, named LV426
  1 PlayStation 3 Slim 120 GB, named HICKS
  
  I have a total of 31 IP reservations according to my Eero app. This makes it a lot easier to manage my network, set up port forwarding, etc.

So you could have:

Standard router plugged into a device that shoots a wireless signal to a matching device on a dedicated link (that'd be the wireless bridge in the setup; here's an example, I'm sure you could find cheaper options by looking around but that's a good brand) and you could plug whatever into that matching device.

Router>Radio (point-to-point link) Radio>Whatever you're plugging in.

​

That's only beneficial if you NEED a wired connection at the other end. If you can connect stuff wirelessly and just want good coverage I'd say to look into a meshed router system (again, a quick example of a good brand, but you could probably find cheaper). That lets you have multiple routers to re-broadcast the signal, but they use a separate, 'extra' wireless channel to talk to each other so that you don't get the same loss that you would with an extender (like the one you linked to).

​

Source: I work for a WISP.

Though your answer has been solved. I'll tell you exactly what it is.

It's a Ubiquiti UniFi AC Enterprise Wireless Access point.

https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-Networks-UniFi-Enterprise-System/dp/B00D80J2XU

They are pretty awesome. This one allows 2.4ghz and 5ghz signals. Have a good range and are pretty solid.

I use these in my work hallways. They cover all 3 floors from the top floor and about 50 feet out in the parking lot.

Great, thanks man :)

Well, I'm doing something like http://www.amazon.com/eero-Home-WiFi-System-Pack/dp/B00XEW3YD6/ as a prototype for a company with raspberry pis :)

EDIT: (moved to top): looks like a lot of folks aren't seeing this coupon, and it might be targeted. Sorry about that. Not quite an r/buildapcsales deal otherwise.

Lowest price on Triple Camel = $320.

This is similar to the RBK50, but gives up some backhaul throughput (AC2200 vs. AC3000) for a voice-enabled Harmon Kardon smart speaker with very nice specs (supposedly better than Echo Show, possibly close to Sonos, according to KitGuru review - 9.0/10.0).

1. $112.92 discount is automotic
   
   
2. $86.00 discount comes from 20% off coupon (just below price discount "you save...") and shows up in checkout.
   
   EDIT: Probably targeted, as it only works for some people, sorry!
   
   
3. $22 promo credit (from $200+ spend) is targeted and detailed in reddit here

Thanks, I don't know why, but I feel like not going with AC will lead to dissapointment. maybe I'm just a sucker for good marketing...
I was looking at this http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0171MGQ7A?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_2&smid=A3MM9MBIRPKY6P
or
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1184039-REG/ubiquiti_networks_uap_ac_lite_5_unifi_ap_ac.html.
Prior to today, the BH option showed they could ship in 3-5 days, but now it looks like they are truly backordered, so probably won't get them in time. Obviously the price on BH site's is better too.

Yes you can get the router, modem, telephone combo but you should get rid of the repeaters as this will always cause problems for you in such a big house, instead go ahead and use a mesh system Google WiFi which I recommend as it's the best in terms of reliablity and support. You can get one of these which can cover 2 levels easily with just one mesh device for 99$ on amazon. It's what I use at home now for my network and along with my own purchased router, modem combo (I don't use land line)

So if you don't have Ethernet on multiple floors I would look at something like the Amplifi HD. There may be cheaper options but Ubiquiti makes a good product and it should be pretty easy to configure.

​

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9O08PW/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_a3hnDbVEJB9EC

Just an FYI, the mesh systems are really great plug and play. But if you are looking for something a little more robust I really recommend just getting several Ubiquity access points. You can get a 5 pack for under $400.

The issue is you need to run Ethernet to each.

The source is my networking background. I have dealt with neat gear and they are all around a bad company with a bad product compared to other companies in this day & age.

Eero mesh routers costs $200 for the main brain (eero pro) and like $130-$150 for the auxiliary eeros (eero beacon)

The best solution for most is to hardwire 3 eero pros to a network switch coming off your modem and you will have perfect wifi throughout your whole home.

Amazon sells a 3 pack of eero’s for a great price.


eero Pro mesh WiFi system (1 Pro + 2 Beacons) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0713ZCT4N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4B7IDbWRKWW86


eero Pro mesh WiFi system - 3-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DWXLYL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_eC7IDb39JMENG

Surely go for mesh.

My first setup ~history~:

I started years ago with a single router. That grew overtime to Powerline Ethernet WiFi extenders (when 100mbps over Powerline was a leap in Technology). Still they kept giving me hard time.

My second setup~ history~:

Moved to 1Gbps Ethernet over Powerline serving GbE links to Apple Airports. That worked for a while in single floor 1600Sq.Ft Home, I needed 5 as where I live all walls are bricks or concrete
, it worked better except that roaming across Wireless Access points was not reliable and actually needed a drop and reconnect at some point.

New place, old WAPs ~problems start~:

When I moved to a 3000SqFt 2 floors place, that I got 300mbps FTTH, backlinks of Cat7, and all I had was connections drops and instability. No 4G connection to blame, no Powerline Ehrernet to blame, all instability was caused by Apple Airports, after investigating the new (very unstable behavior, it turned that extending SSID actually dis WiFi extending and backhaul links were useless.

Moving to mesh, my setup:

So I took a a leap of faith and moved to Mesh network, and boy. I only regretted not doing it earlier.
I used thetp-link deco m5 to mesh network my home (used 5 units out of the 6 received), One acts a router for my network, ISP’s router brings internet in, it has a dhcp server, then I connect my main deco to it and deco thinks it’s getting dhcp from isp while its getting dhcp from ISP’s router (my isp ties authentication to gpon’s Mac + proprietary Auth. Methods.) the main deco now acts the router, it’s connected to a 24ports Gigabit switch.
All deco units are backhauled to the main one via this switch and all wireless capabilities are now dedicated to my WiFi devices and WiFi capacity not consumed by mesh cross traffic. When Mesh device is next to wired Ethernet devices link goes from back haul to deco, then deco’s second port connected to a small 5port/8port switch that wired devices connect to.

Benefits realized with mesh:

Now regardless which device I test (wired or wireless, I see around 280mbps internet connectivity speed. And deco comes with own home security suite, this is very useful and safe measure. Guest networks can be switched on or off at any time (from mobile app) or using Alexa.
Worth noting that after I got my deco m5, deco m7 came out with Powerline Ethernet backhauling. If you don’t have any cable work laid down, I would say go for those.

Bottom line:

• go for mesh all the time unless you live in a studio
  
• back haul your mesh system with Cat 6/7 or Powerline Ethernet, use WiFi for traffic, not cross traffic.
  
  I chose tp-link out of brand trust, 10 years 20 different devices never let me down. I didn’t pick deco m9 as it would have almost tripled my project cost: deco m5s: 320$ vs 840$ deco m9. And like I said deco m7 wasn’t out back then

> So for the RJ45s that I want to remain as telephone I should not mess with those at all then.

Correct. From the picture, it seems the end in the wiring panel are numbered. I suspect they will also be marked behind the face plate (or possibly on it). If not, you'll probably need to get something like this to help figure out which wire is which.

> For ones I want internet I should disconnect them from the telephone block, terminate them with RJ45 plugs, and stick them and my new modem (connected to one of the like 8 coax plugs that are in that main box) into a switch. Then make sure my other ends at the sockets are terminated for RJ45.

If your 'new modem' is actually a modem / router combo, yes. If there are few enough ports around the house that you wish to convert to ethernet, you could even bypass a switch and plug directly into one of the four RJ45 ports on the back of your modem / router.

> That should also allow me to place the wireless router wherever there is a RJ45 plate.

I would absolutely not recommend using a wireless router if your goal is just to bolster a WiFi 'weak spot' in the house. Incorrectly configured, they can cause a lot of headaches, and the wireless radios in them are often subpar (especially if you stick to cheaper routers). The Ubiquiti UAP-AC-Lite is the go-to wireless access point 'round these parts right now (I own one myself). If you don't need to connect any other wired devices, you could even do one of these, which completely replaces the RJ45 wall plate with a nice unobtrusive device. If you wish to add WiFi coverage and connect one (or more) wired devices at a specific network port, a gigabit network switch connected to the port would work -- this will let you connect a WAP + your wired devices.

>Now I am from Europe so this means that this house is made out of bricks and concrete with steel rods in there.

I recently installed four Deco M5's (not M9) in a concrete house in Bulgaria, two on each floor. Range and speed are good, and I've got WiFi in places that simply had none before. I have them in bridged mode because the stupid ISP's router can't be disabled or replaced, so I can't tell you anything about how they work as a router since they just act like AP's for me. I just ran a speed test and on my wired laptop (with the WiFi turned off) I get 46/20 and on wireless (an iPhone) I get 43/21. It's a 50/20 plan, so these numbers are exactly what I expect.

The only difference between the M5's and M9's seem to be speed, which didn't matter much for my installation (only having 50/20 internet in the first place). And the M5's were way cheaper.

• M5 is 400 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, 867 Mbps on 5 GHz
  
• M9 is 400 Mbps at 2.4 GHz, 867 Mbps at 5 GHz (1), 867 Mbps at 5 GHz (2)
  
  So for 2.4 GHz there's absolutely no difference. If you're able to wire the Deco's, then you'll get better 5 GHz performance; else 5 GHz clients have to share bandwidth with the backhaul.
  
  Looks like they're now 199€ or £181 for a 3-pack.
  
  > Routers currently have about 37 clients
  
  Wow. I count 6 wireless and 6 wired devices here. Try to wire some of that stuff if you can. The Deco's have two ports that you can connect devices, and of course you can attach a small switch to one of the ports if needed. Should be the same with other AP's or mesh network devices. The fewer wireless clients, the better the experience will be for the rest of them.

So I live in a 100+ year old house in the North East and our walls are THICK and stone. WiFi signal was only ever fine in the room with the router and the room directly above. At first (because our house has recently been rewired) I used power line adapters and 2 separate routers (one as an AP) to extend the WiFi round the house. The power lines weren't great (needed resetting quite often) but they worked well enough to not cause any real headaches. The only issue was that sometime you would need to manually switch between upstairs and downstairs for it to work properly.

I eventually got round to running CAT5e round the house when doing other work and at the same time, I bought a TP-Link Deco Mesh system. I now have WiFi throughout the entire house and that's including the extension on the rear of the house (which I never expected to get), it also reaches around 25 yards out the front of the house. It took a few goes of trial and error of placement but it works great now. I believe there is a way to run ethernet to each Disc/Base but I found that my placement doesn't require that, so much of the CAT5e placements went for other needs!

I'd recommend ordering from Amazon (as I have linked above) and trying them out, if they don't work simply return them to Amazon and try a different method.

Thanks for taking the time to reply!

I was heavily considering the EdgeRouter X, but wasn't sure what would compliment it well.

Do you know if the EAP245 has to be hard-wired?

Seems pretty affordable for a proper at-home setup.

I was considering the Ubiquiti AmpliFi, but I see mixed feelings on it.(Not the system though)

Can anyone help me with my rural internet plan? Not super FIRE related, but I know a lot of folks here have probably encountered the same obstacle.

I'm in an area that can only get HughesNet, with their lovely 24-month contract only plans and low caps. I'm trying to daisy chain an alternative and could use some help!

At the location I can get decent LTE coverage from Verizon. They also offer an "unlimited' plan that drops your speed 4.8Mbps after 15Gigs. Not ideal, but still tolerable.

What'd I'd like to do is this:

• Verizon JetPack 7730L + An Antenna
  
  
• Verizon Single-Device Beyond Unlimited Service ($85/month)
  
  
• Pair The Jetpack to a Mesh Router, as my "single" device for full-home coverage
  
  
• Enjoy the 21st Century
  
  In theory it sounds straight-forward, but with only a USB out, how do I properly link the JetPack to the base router of the mesh system?
  
  
  

I was only getting half my advertised speeds on the WiFi out of our providers device, which for me was more than enough so I didn’t think much about it.

For other reasons, I picked up a mesh wireless setup and hardwired it to the provider device and disabled its WiFi so we only ran off the mesh. I get 90-95% of my advertised speeds since making the switch. I also have stronger wireless signal through out the entire house, garage, and backyard (this is primarily why I added the mesh.)

I recommend reading up on mesh devices before purchasing, they are not created equal. While this setup works great for me and my needs, you might benefit more from a setup that offers a dedicated backbone. You have more users than I do, and my needs are lower bandwidth (security cams around the exterior.)

We have Verizon Fios (Frontier now) 150mbs up and down. We upgraded to that router and it worked better but we still had issues.

What fixed it totally was getting the google wifi we went from 70 to 80 down to right on 150. Vue has worked perfectly since then no pauses or skips.

Parents have vue and use the Amazon fire tv and were have issues with skips and pauses. Got them Google wifi haven't had a issue since.

I highly recommend getting it. You can buy it in a three pack or individually. Easy setup.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MAW2294/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501870496&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=google+wifi&psc=1

I have Amplifi HD and am very happy with it.

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I am an IT manager and have done a lot of testing of different AP's and routers and I have to say that the Amplifi HD is rock solid. I have never had an issue with it (over 1 year since install).

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My house (approx. 2,000 sqft w/ three levels) is a smart home to some extent with A LOT of devices connected to the wireless network. We have 3 laptops, 4 rokus (which are constantly streaming from my Plex server), 4 iPhones, two iPads, thermostat, Playstation 4, Wii U, two desktops, multiple Alexa devices, etc, etc.

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My wife does a lot of video editing and uploading to the web over the wireless is quick and not affected by other devices on the network, we are also gamers (COD, WoW, Sims) and the latency hasn't been noticeable.

If I was to do it right with a few hundred to sink in, it would look something like this:

• Router- EdgeRouter Lite or an Atom box running PFSense which might not be for you.
  
  
• Switch- TRENDnet 8-Port Unmanaged, or a higher port version, depending on your needs.
  
  
• Wireless- 2x Ubiquiti UniFi AC, they do have the much cheaper N models but AC is the latest.
  
  
• Living room- If you're going the AC route, get the beloved Asus AC66U, it's very simple to set up as a bridge and this is the performance I get with it.
  
  There it is, very expensive and very future proof set up. Maybe someone else can post their thoughts and recommendations :)

Yay information! Yeah I was looking into this SQM, seems like it's not usually easy to find what something offers. If I read correctly though, a docsis 3.1 modem solves this?
So what about,
Google: Google WiFi system, 1-Pack - Router replacement for whole home coverage - NLS-1304-25 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MDJ0HVG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_tAd6CbTTN35MG

And Arris: ARRIS SURFboard Gigabit DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem, 10 Gbps Max Speed, Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox and Charter. (SB8200 Frustration Free) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DY16W2Z/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.yd6CbAG8NBM3

Only problem with this is I dont get a lot of LAN ports, any suggestion on a good switch that I could put behind a TV to split off to hardwire multiple devices if needed?

Surely these Mesh APs wouldn't provide full lan potential if not hardwired to the modem.

I’m living in an executive so slightly bigger than you. I got myself a Orbi RBK50. So it’s not exactly mesh but more of a hub and spoke model and it’s great. Full bars everywhere!

https://smile.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Orbi-Ultra-Performance-Whole-System/dp/B01K4CZOBS

Just had to go to Mustafa to get 2 cheap travel adapters for the US plugs and good to go.

https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Deco-Whole-Home-System/dp/B06WVCB862

This fits in your price range perfectly. Try them out and if they don’t work well then return for something a bit more expensive.

For an easy setup I always recommend eero.

This TP-Link was rater "Best router for most people." It will handle your internet speeds, is dual band, and has some of the best range and features in its price range. It's a pretty standard recommendation on r/homenetworking too.

You could also go for a mesh system like Google Wifi. It's a little more expensive, but its designed to be very simple and work for large areas, like multiple floors. Depends on your budget though.

That's a decent model, the link you sent me is a 3 pack of 802.11n wifi access points. Which will give you a large coverage area, but I'm using this one which supports 802.11ac.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015PRO512/ref=psdcmw_1194486_t1_B005EORRBW

If you want to do mesh networks they also just release some cool AP's that do that too. I think I'm going to pick this one up to improve wifi coverage in our master bath. Which is probably not necessary since our sonos in there never drops out.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01N9FIELY/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499138482&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=uap+m&dpPl=1&dpID=312mdI78PJL&ref=plSrch

Thank you for your response! I consider myself tech savvy, but when it comes to the home network, my knowledge is basic. I planned on hooking the base up to the modem via router, and using the mesh wifi for the two satellites. Does that answer your question? If you don't mind, could you also tell me if it would be worth returning the RBK23 (2 Satellites) for the RBK 50 (one Satellite) if there were only a $20 price difference? I'm not sure what Extra I am getting from one or the other. Thank you!

RBK 23 on Amazon: Orbi RBK 23


RBK 50 on Amazon (Have a 20% off Coupon):Orbi RBK 50

Great! Thanks for the help. One last thing. We don't need anything crazy what do you think of this Ubiquiti model

I would recommend the ubiquiti amplify router and mesh points. (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9O08PW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_46aYzbDF94GHV). If they don’t want to spend the money for the router and 2 mesh points the router and single mesh point would work fine. I have recommend the amplify rougher by itself for medium size houses (2500 ft^2) and 30 Mbps and they had great results.

An [eero and two beacons] (https://www.amazon.com/eero-Home-WiFi-System-Beacons/dp/B0713ZCT4N/) will probably do a great job for you (and the beacons make great hallway night-lights as well!), OR you can get the three eero bundle if you need to extend ethernet from the leaf nodes.

I think with 4 people, a mesh compatible network would be a good way to handle this. What router do you guys currently have by the way?

https://www.pcmag.com/roundup/350795/the-best-wi-fi-mesh-network-systems

This one seems to be the cheapest pack (3 of them): TP-Link Deco M5

>Dual Band 2.4GHz (up to 400 Mbps) + 5 GHz (up to 867 Mbps)
Quad Core CPU
4 x Internal Antennas
2 x Gigabit Ethernet Ports
2 x 2 MU-MIMO
Bluetooth (for Setup)
1 USB Type-C Adapter (for Power)

Those paired with a decent "main" router (where the WAN comes in) I think would be an great approach for you're particular situation.


Here's the approach I would do:

Living Room (or where the modem is)

• Ubiquiti EdgeRouterX
  
  
• Ubiquiti UAP-AC-LR (place on top or next to EdgeRouterX)
  
  Your room and roomates
  
  
• TP-Link Deco M5
  
  
  I think you can do this at around $400; so split between you guys it's $100 each for an improvement. I don't know how to find and compare this stuff for you if you're not in the US. Sorry. =/

What's the best wifi repeater out there?

I read about Google Wifi Mesh, but not sure if there are others that definitely better and cheaper?

Recently got this for my parent's house. It works great. Max speed on wifi all through out the house now. It doesn't cut down speed like other repeaters because it has a dedicated backbone.

https://smile.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Orbi-Whole-System-Tri-band/dp/B01K4CZOBS?sa-no-redirect=1

https://www.amazon.com/Google-Wifi-system-set-replacement/dp/B01MAW2294

Google's mesh WiFi system is pretty legit, I just put one in because I have two floors and plaster walls. Check the Amazon reviews, it's a highly rated item on there. Good luck with your interwebs.

Yes I am. I have deployed dozens of these and love them.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HXT8T5O/ref=psdc_1194486_t3_B015PRO512

Their coverage and reliability is phenomenal. I have a handful of them at a small middle school supporting 150-200 devices with heavy usage and they are rock solid.

I suggested the others because they are much friendlier for novice users to setup and use.

>All of those are very new devices...they have to prove themselves before I can think about implementing them in a home or small business.

I'd much rather deploy something relatively new than something that's hasn't been updated in three years and is now being officially discontinued.

>I've seen eero but i don't see it doing anything different than an airport extreme with two expresses.

I didn't think Airport Express supported AC?

> In other words, is 2 routers possible?

Actually what you want to do is run cables to key points (your TV, your office, etc) and then set up a WiFi mesh network.

For best performance each mesh point should be connected by cable back to the main mesh point (which also functions as a router) but they will also talk to each other over WiFi if necessary.

For consumer use Google's mesh system is generally considered to be the best. Each Google mesh point has two gigabit ethernet ports so you're going to need a basic switch by the main mesh point to connect everything together.

Note: Don't mistake mesh for using WiFi extenders. Extenders suck ass compared to mesh. Mesh is transparent to your devices and makes it seem like your entire home is covered by one single network, much like with cellular systems. WiFi extenders create separate networks within your house and can cause all sorts of problems as your device tries to figure out which extender to connect to. It's a mess. Mesh is awesome.

I agree with what is most said, wiring things is much better because WiFi isn't the most reliable.
It sound alike you're having problems similar to what I used to have, I recently bought this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9O07FS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_GvhszbG5FHSZ1 (There's a high density or long range option. I got high density due to many devices on wifi) I love it through and through, I get Amazing coverage around my home, no more dropping wifi, and it connects devices automatically to it's 5Ghz if they are in range or able. It still has 2.4Ghz for devices far away or not compatible. If you're still having problems it has mesh points you can buy pushing your coverage further.

Edit: Forgot to mention, like what others said, using powerline adapters or Coax to Ethernet for wiring devices and getting the router in the center of the home. Having central wifi is key

So there's a few options, but there's not really a simple/cheap solution that I know of. The first is to deal with slow wifi and maybe use LTE when it gets real bad. The second is to move the router somewhere. Like run a cat6 cable somewhere more central and put the router there. You'll get better wifi everywhere that way - but if you take away the hard line to your gaming setups you'll lose speed there.

There's a thing called a wifi extender - I tried one once and thought it was basically useless. I'd avoid that.

If you're willing to spend some money, it sounds like there's a thing called "wireless mesh." If I'm honest, I don't know everything about them, but I think you can get some good results from them if you're willing to spend some money. I don't claim that any of these are great, but I've considered them in the past - and would be considering them now if I hadn't just bought a car...

amazon/netgear orbi


netgear site

This is the best all around router for most home users:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BUSDVBQ/

If your house is more then 3000 sqft or you live in an area with a lot of wi-fi interference, I would recommend going with a mesh networking system like the eero:

https://www.amazon.com/eero-Home-WiFi-System-Pack/dp/B00XEW3YD6/

On sale at Amazon in the US right now. Not sure if same price elsewhere.

https://www.amazon.com/Google-Wifi-system-set-replacement/dp/B01MAW2294/ref=zg_bs_300189_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=3HCN0NB4NEMW9WZN6YR3

Noticed it is the best selling router on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Computers-Accessories-Computer-Routers/zgbs/pc/300189

Pre-ordered ours and love them. Replaced out AirPort Extremes when the news came down that Apple was ending development.

"Why is Apple abandoning the AirPort Extreme, AirPort Express and AirPort Time Capsule?"

http://www.cio.com/article/3143606/consumer-electronics/why-is-apple-abandoning-the-airport-extreme-airport-express-and-airport-time-capsule.html

Last update was 7.7.8 late last year and guess that is it.

Thanks very much for the detailed reply. That is very helpful. The eeros mesh I am considering is this one:


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WMLPSRL

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Do you think it would be ok? (Or should I spend a bit more and get the PRO version?)


I'm a little concerned about placement. Do these sit on a counter or something? Or can I attach them higher up to the wall? Or do they plug into the electrical plug near the floor?

Either of these would work.

​

You can buy just the "meshpoint" from amplifi and set it up easily with a phone. It's an easy fast setup process. https://www.amplifi.com/

​

https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-Ubiquiti-Seamless-Wireless-Extenders/dp/B01L9O08PW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1540510584&sr=8-1&keywords=amplifi+mesh+node

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​

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Synology just released a new mesh node as well. It runs about $130 on amazon. In fact I think they pushed new firmware that lets any synology router run as a mesh node. https://www.synology.com/en-global/company/news/article/PR_router_MR2200ac

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https://www.amazon.com/Synology-MR2200ac-Mesh-Wi-Fi-Router/dp/B07HPSQZKN/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1540510620&sr=8-1&keywords=synology+mesh&dpID=318CC53a0SL&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

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Network extenders are not good, especially the kind that connect via power-line Ethernet. Best bet is to get a wireless access point that bridges to the router, or better yet, whole-home wifi like Google Wifi:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MAW2294/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_i1KUDbMRVJFMM

You really need to use access points wired back to your main router with proper Ethernet or at least MoCA. That is the only thing that will give you the speeds your desire reliably.

Sorry I'm not entirely sure what this means, I'm fairly technical so maybe just a more general explanation. I'm more than happy to get the Orbi.

Is this what you recommend to get? Will I need to get anything else?

https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Orbi-Whole-System-Tri-band/dp/B01K4CZOBS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1523849870&sr=8-3&keywords=orbi%2BRBK50&th=1

man, thats a tough one.

In general "range extenders" are crap. They dont help at all with transmit, and make it look like you have a passable signal, that doesnt actually work that well at all.

Its gonna get pricey. id run one AP per floor in the center hall/stairwell. UAP-AC-LR's are the right choice for you

If you have a good idea that the wiring in the house is good (good neutrals throughout, circuit layout well connected, no cloth wiring, etc), there are some passable powerline mesh solutions, I like the amplifi line

https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-High-Density-Home-Wi-Fi-System/dp/B01L9O08PW

Also increasing in popularity are mesh router systems. They are more expensive but supposed to better cover large areas to increase coverage.

All of the above are possible.

https://amcrest.com/wifi-cameras.html

Lots of great 1080p 30fps wifi cameras for around $100 or less.

https://amcrest.com/amcrest-nv4108-1080p-8ch-1080p-3mp-4mp-5mp-network-video-recorder-supports-up-to-8-x-1080p-2-1mp-wifi-ip-cameras-at-30fps-realtime-supports-up-to-4tb-hdd-not-included-no-built-in-wifi.html

Depending if you do motion activated or not this will have plenty of storage. I use a different company but a 4TB drive has 8 months of 1080p 30fps motion detection on it and still room for more.

Lastly, if you want to really control these without interfering get an enterprise AP

https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-UAP-AC-M-US-Unifi-Access-Point/dp/B01N9FIELY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1510175563&sr=8-1&keywords=ubiquiti+ac+mesh&dpID=31AIzZssG9L&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

One or two of these will take care of any wifi problems. They are far more powerful than consumer products and will let you have multiple networks all over 2.4 and 5ghz.

Total cost on this will be around $600 depending on taxes, shipping, and a few ethernet cables.

This is something that might be of help. Wi-Fi extender routers. They also come in single versions that you can add more to.


Edit: to add to this. I have shitty wifi router modem combo and I was tired of not being able to sit out side with my rig on the back porch for when I wanted to smoke and relax with a game. So I purchased these with the intent to wire these so I had 100% connection like I would wired to the modem. However once I got these I decided to try and use them just on the wifi as it's supposed to be able to bounce signal to strengthen the wifi around the whole house (it's called a mesh network). So after getting it set up I tested the wifi connection. Now before the setup wired I get 125 down and 40 up. On the old wifi network out side I got 10 down and 5 up. Now with the new mesh network not wired up I get 120 to 125 down and 30 to 40 up and that's out side with out the access points being wired other than having to wire the power. Funny enough they have wan ports on them so I use one of the 3 as a wifi card basically lol. Good luck with what you do but this helped me and I never had to go the extra step to wire the access points. Wifi has come a long way.

Performance wise, Netgear Orbi. The only thing I see it do on my PiHole is ping netgear.com, presumably for automatic updates. It does have some Disney parental controls software that’s opt-in, which is annoying to see. Can’t think of anything else that is good. Make sure you get the full sized router/extenders (RBK50) and not the mini versions, as they don’t have the dedicated backhaul.

Link related:

https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Orbi-Ultra-Performance-Whole-System/dp/B01K4CZOBS?th=1&psc=1

My partner is selling a bunch of electronic equipment (networking stuff mostly):

Netgear Orbi AC3000 $300

Netgear Nighthawk X6 AC3200 $175

Apple Airport Extreme (5th Generation) $40

ActionTech Ethernet to Coax Adapter (ECB2500C) $50 Brand new in box. Never opened.

ScreenBeam Mini2 Wireless Display Receiver $30

de.Light WiFi Extender Bulb $75 Like new de.Light WiFi extender bulb. Helps eliminate wifi dead zones in your home. Wire free as you simply screw the bulb into an existing light socket. Comes with wifi bulb, hub, and Ethernet cable.

Individual pics of the specific products available, but figured the amazon links would be helpful for full specifics.

Look into 'mesh WiFi'. It's like a repeater, but different tech. It's what big business and hospitals use. The best one available affordably is around $300 from Ubiquiti.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01L9O08PW/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1517775900&sr=8-14&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=Ubiquiti

You can't reasonably get signals in and out of metal boxes.
Drill holes in side and run a cable to a roof mount antenna, point them all at a box with some servers and an upstream liink and some routers with decent horsepower.

New outdoor AP systems are getting super cheap and easy to set up. Don't waste company productivity and time on stuff that can't work.

https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-UAP-AC-M-US-Unifi-Access-Point/dp/B01N9FIELY 5 pack is $440

If you get a cheap router, you'll get poor results. If you get a good one, you will get good results. I got a Amplifi by Ubiquiti, which comes with two wireless extenders that effectively create a seamless mesh network that covers my entire home and 1 acre property. It is rock solid reliable and very fast.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9O08PW/

We replaced our aging Apple base stations with Google Mesh:

https://smile.amazon.com/Google-Wifi-system-set-replacement/dp/B01MAW2294/ref=smi_www_rco2_go_smi_g3499214142?_encoding=UTF8&%2AVersion%2A=1&%2Aentries%2A=0&ie=UTF8

The setup is almost as or just as easy as Apple's and they have been working like champs.

cwl

I came here to post this - glad you got it already!

You can preorder from the Google Store, Amazon 1 pack, 3 pack, Best Buy 1 pack, 3 pack, or Walmart.

They'll ship on December 6th.

https://www.amazon.com/Google-Wifi-system-set-replacement/dp/B01MAW2294/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524984253&sr=1-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&dpPl=1&dpID=31rlzhTFq4L&ref=plSrch

Something like this might work for yea?
Few of these systems out there and people seem to love em.

Alright, this is getting a bit suspicious. I think there might be new eero hardware coming soon? Please put on your tin foil hats…

1. Discounts at both Target and Best Buy (see previous discussion)
   
2. Some Amazon listings only have a few left in stock - eero with beacon and three pack
   
3. Longer time between software updates
   
   (anything I missed?)

Eero is super easy to setup and is a wireless mesh network that isn't ridiculously pricey. I've covered every inch of multiple different 10,000 square feet plus structures. Much cheaper than Cisco alternatives although there might be some out there that are cheaper. [Eero] (https://www.amazon.com/eero-Home-WiFi-System-Pack/dp/B00XEW3YD6/ref=sr_1_1?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1481853333&sr=1-1&keywords=eero&th=1)

 

I have used the Cisco Meraki in 70,000 square feet buildings with multiple subnets etc, but it is a much more expensive solution and overkill for what your needs are unless you need a lot of network control.

If you are looking at Mesh, you get what you pay for.

I currently have the AmpliFi system from Ubiquity:

https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-Ubiquiti-Seamless-Wireless-Extenders/dp/B01L9O08PW/

All my stuff works great.

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If the latest generation of Eero had been out when I bought \^\^\^, I would have gotten it for the dedicated back-channel:

https://www.amazon.com/eero-Home-WiFi-System-Beacon/dp/B071HHK2PN/

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Here's some links to the items I had mentioned,

Cloud Key Gen2 Plus

5TB USB Hard Drive (How to shuck it)

Cameras:

G3 Flex (Crosstalk's review)

G3 Micro (If wireless is required) (Crosstalk's review)

Other useful videos (Crosstalk Solutions does a lot of good videos about Unifi products):

Information about the hard drive upgrade

Information about unifi protect

Unifi video NVR Build

Might try looking into wifi extenders or PoE access points (personally recommend Ubiquiti). There's also the Google WiFi system, which offers great performance at a cheaper price than Orbi.

I'll second the TP-Link Deco M5. I bought these on the recommendation of some IT friends and I love them. I can't fully express how simple the setup and deployment of these things were. I've had them for about 5 months and I haven't had any problems. They also give me a report each month of usage. There seems to be some really great family internet usage options, but since I don't have kids, I really never dug into them.

I'd get the three pack to start with. See how the wifi coverage is, it should be more than enough to cover everything. Just make sure the main router that connects to the bridged FIOS router/modem is centrally located. During the setup WiFi will run tests and make sure the mesh points have a good connection back to the main router and if not suggest moving them around.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MAW2294/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500405280&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=google+wifi&psc=1

To follow-up I ordered an Actiontec MOCA (ECB6200S02) adapter and an Orbi RBK50 mesh system.

​

My goal was to have the Orbi router in my office so it could cover that half of the house and then I'd put the satellite (with Ethernet backhaul) upstairs on the opposite side of the house to cover that side. My wiring cabinet is in the unfinished basement so putting the router down there is less than ideal.

I have two network drops in my office, let's call them "NA" and "NB". Down in the wiring cabinet I plugged the "NA" wire directly into the ONT's Ethernet port. Up in the office I connected the Orbi router's WAN port into that "NA" drop. Then I connect one of the switch ports on the Orbi router to connect into the "NB" drop, then down in the wiring cabinet put that "NB" wire into a 16-port unmanaged switch. Then all the other network cables for all the other rooms in the wiring cabinet would also go into that switch. This way everything that's wired would be behind the Orbi router.

In theory it makes sense (to me) and it should work but when I tried that the Orbi app said it didn't have a network cable connection.

(And before anyone asks - yes, both "NA" and "NB" drops in my office work. Up to this point I've had my Synology NAS on "NA" and a switch on "NB" for my computer and our network printer.)

​

To get it up and running I ended up just putting the Orbi router in the basement and connecting the WAN port directly into the ONT. The setup detected a network cable connection and completed.

Within 20 minutes of having the Orbi setup and configured the router lost its internet connection twice. Once it fixed on its own after a few minutes and the second time I had to completely reboot the router. So this thing appears to be a piece of junk. From what I read online not all versions of the Orbi firmware support Ethernet backhaul and the latest firmware (v2.2.1.210) is completely broken and has been for months with no updates. So I manually updated the router to v2.1.4.16 (per this thread). That update went fine, then I updated the satellite and it the update never completed. Then the router lost its internet connection. At this point I just pulled it all out and went back to the FiOS router.

I guess I'm going to give the Orbi stuff another shot this weekend but I don't have high hopes.

The MOCA adapter seemed to do it's job just fine. When I had it connected my Guide, DVR and onDemand was all working on my STB. So at least there's that...

Any other recommendations for a mesh system? I have a 3000sqft house (with a 1500sqft unfinished basement) and I just need good WiFi on the main floor and for the upstairs bedrooms. I also really want Ethernet backhaul since I have a network drop in every room.

As much as I'd love to have Ubiquiti I didn't have the foresight to have the builder put network drops in the ceiling everywhere so without running a bunch of cables and cutting a bunch of holes in my brand new house that leaves me with their in-wall units and I'd need one in just about every room so that gets pricey quick...

Google WiFi seems to be decent and the price is right but I've read it drops connections a lot and just isn't that fast overall. It's cheap enough I can always just throw another puck in a room when I need more coverage.

Eero is rather expensive, I'm looking at $500 for their "pro" system.

Suggestions?

My preference (3000 sq ft / 3 floors) is to have an enterprise-class router/firewall (pfSense) and then an AP on each floor.

If you prefer something simpler, then you could look at a mesh router like AmpliFi HD WiFi System by Ubiquiti Labs, Seamless Whole Home Wireless Internet Coverage.

Someone I know (4500 sq ft / 3 floors) has one of these and is very happy with their performance.

Looks like I may have found the answer. See below Q&A from Amazon.com. The answer was provided by someone designated as the "Manufacturer"

Question: Some of the pictures show a single cord going to the router. Does that mean it accepts power over ethernet, or are these wifi->wifi extenders?

Answer: Google Wifi is a "mesh" Wi-Fi system, they are not extenders for your existing router. The first Wifi point plugs into your modem with an Ethernet cord, and plugs in to power. Others plug in to regular power outlets in your home. They connect wirelessly to one another to create a single Wi-Fi network within your home. If you have Ethernet ports throughout your house, you can also hardwire each point. If you hardwire the units, you will still get a single Wi-Fi network throughout your house and the points will use Ethernet for connectivity between each other.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MAW2294/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1#Ask

I'm seeing $429.99 -> $317.07 (sale) -> 253.66 (20% off coupon).

So I'm assuming the $231 price is after the $22 promo credit (if you use the app).

FYI, the non-smart-speaker version here also gets the 20% off coupon, for $235 (before promo credit). I got one of these a few months back and it's working well so far.

Great. After looking at the one I was planning on getting the one you’re talking about it only like $15 more than what I was going to pay. I might just go ahead and get this one instead.

It’s already pretty well discounted. Current price on Amazon for one eero plus two beacons over $90 off.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0713ZCT4N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_7qoeAbFGAD5TA

I’d recommend the eero Pro + eero Beacon system which is $149 right now for Prime Day. Plug the main unit in downstairs and plug the eero upstairs and you’ll have perfect WiFi everywhere
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071HHK2PN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_DDvlDbQKSW8PV

Looks like orbi is your best option. Get the 2 router AC3000 option. A little pricier than google WiFi, but it looks like a serious upgrade in bandwidth size.

NETGEAR Orbi Home Mesh WiFi System (RBK50) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K4CZOBS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_f.zQBbSRN6EBJ

I've a spare Google Wifi system (set of 3) (Brand new), coming in from USA, for sale.

It would be the ideal equipment for your relative's wifi issues. Hit me up in the PM if you are interested.

https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Orbi-Whole-Home-System/dp/B01K4CZOBS/ref=sr_1_9?crid=27UACTZBPFM5T&keywords=wifi%2B6%2Brouter&qid=1565288051&s=gateway&sprefix=wifi%2B6%2B%2Caps%2C636&sr=8-9&th=1

Would something like this be better? 2500 sq ft house not including the basement. Looking for more range and better wifi speeds.

Modem, switch for additional Ethernet ports and this

TP-Link Deco Whole Home Mesh WiFi System – Homecare Support, Seamless Roaming, Dynamic Backhaul, Adaptive Routing, Works with Amazon Alexa, Up to 5,500 sq. ft. Coverage (M5) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WVCB862/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FfR2Cb1FR5YB4

Hey man

I recently moved into to a new place. Where i game is too far for an ethernet cable. What do you think of orbi? https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Orbi-Whole-System-Tri-band/dp/B01K4CZOBS/ref=sr_1_1?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1517993315&sr=1-1&keywords=orbi

I also thought of getting a power line but im really at the oppsite of the sound on the 2nd floor. While the modem is on the first floor. If i used a powerline it would run through the kitchen and living room before it gets to me. Not sure if its worth it.

Thanks.

ah ok, I hear you. This would be perfect for one of these if you change your mind.

https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-UAP-AC-M-US-Unifi-Access-Point/dp/B01N9FIELY/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=unifi+ac+mesh&qid=1557013958&s=gateway&sr=8-3

I used to always have issues with isp provided equipment. I would see if you can testa a new router like UBIQUITI Networks EdgeRouter X 5 Ports Gigabit LAN/WAN Router https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B011N1IT2A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_xyCQCb906RRRA with Ubiquiti Networks UAP-AC-LITE WLAN Access Point https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B016K4GQVG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_aACQCb20H55SZ

But only if you are OK with lots of setup and reading...

If you got money and don't want to mess about this is good also :Ubiquiti Amplifi 4-Ports Home Wi-Fi System AFI HD Wireless Router https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01L9O08PW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_hBCQCb32C5H0F

If you are talking about eero Home WiFi System (1 eero Pro + 1 eero Beacon) - Advanced Tri-Band Mesh WiFi System to Replace Traditional Routers and WiFi Ranger Extenders - Coverage: 1 to 2 Bedroom Home https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071HHK2PN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XKzEDbH9KNE8V , yes, that's too expensive. I am okay with something under $100

Thanks for your response. I’ll update once I know what hub they’re offering.

May I ask what hub you went with next? I’m thinking about getting this Samsung SmartThings WiFi Mesh Router System. Seems like it would pair with everything I have... except the Genie Garage Door opener that came with the house.

I have google wifi, with ethernet backhaul, but from everything I've read (I've spent a few hours reading reviews on eero, google wifi, and amplifi) two Amplifi HD routers will give you a killer system, and that is what i'll do if I ever ditch google wifi.

The reason to buy two routers is the system's mesh points are wireless only (and if you already have ethernet cable ran then why do that?) but you can easily hardwire two of the HD routers together and set the second as a wired (or wireless) mesh point. This has been a supported feature for at least two years per this thread: https://www.reddit.com/r/AmpliFi/comments/6auf3m/2_amplifi_hd_routers/

If you want to save money and get a slightly less feature-rich setup you can also hardwire two of their Amplifi Instant routers together.

Ok, that explains a lot as well. What do you think about these "whole home wifi" solutions?

https://www.amazon.com/Luma-Whole-Home-WiFi-Pack/dp/B017DV1BPG/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1519760199&sr=8-7&keywords=whole+home+wifi

Gotcha. So Extenders and powerline adapters suck.

I’ve read about the Orbi solution too. You say that I should get the RBK50 but would getting the RBK30 be that much slower? Especially since charters spectrum will just give me 100mbps down and 15mbps up? If I can save $100 going with the RBK30 and the speed difference is negligible, I would prefer it. But if it makes a drastic change, I could dish out the extra $100.

https://www.amazon.com/eero-Home-WiFi-System-Beacon/dp/B0713ZCT4N/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=eero&qid=1571086246&sr=8-2

It's pricey (got it on prime day for 50% off), but it's amazing. Went form having to piss poor WiFi to it being perfect.

Ubiquiti's AP-AC-Lite is what I'd recommend off hand, if you already have a router.

Are you looking for a standard home Router-Firewall-AP combo or just an AP?

I've heard good things about their combo unit, AmpliFi, but I haven't used one myself:

https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-Home-Wi-Fi-Router-AFI-R/dp/B01L9O07FS/

If you have a decent budget I would look at Ubiquiti unifi network stuff.

Here is a router, access point, and the controller that configures and monitors everything.


https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-USG-Security-UC-CK-UAP-AC-PRO/dp/B07C87SQ9W/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=1F33LBHXUCZ52&keywords=unifi%2Bsecurity%2Bgateway&qid=1550283380&s=gateway&sprefix=unifi%2B&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&th=1


Switch with power over Ethernet to power the access points


https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-Networks-US-16-150W-UniFi-Switch/dp/B01E46ATQ0/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=unifi+switch&qid=1550283561&s=gateway&sr=8-4


In wall access points that you can place in strategic spots in your house if you want better coverage.


https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-Unifi-UAP-AC-Iw-Wireless-Access/dp/B06XZLP8Q6/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?crid=35O92BTS4KY1I&keywords=unifi+in+wall+hd&qid=1550283677&s=gateway&sprefix=unifi+in+&sr=8-2


You can learn more here

unifi-sdn.ui.com

You can save an awful lot of money by not paying for your ISP to set up your Wifi. Buy your own Wifi router, configure it yourself, and only pay for Cox's internet.

Get your own Modem if you can, too.

For the modem, you might want to get something like this if you're paying for less than 300Mbp/s (and there is ZERO point in paying for more if you're only connecting wirelessly) or this if you're paying for gigabit and have hardwired ethernet devices.

For the router, if you're living in an apartment or small house where you only need one Wifi access point, something like this should work great, since it has an easy setup app available. If you're in a bigger space (e.g. multi-story or 3+ bedroom house), you might consider this or this, since both are designed for easy setup.

If you go with the 300Mbps plan from Cox, at $80 a month, even with the big space and $300 Mesh Wifi routers, you'd be saving money after six months. It's even faster if you only need a smaller space or are willing to drop to a slower internet speed (I seriously doubt you'll notice anything faster than 100Mbps, which is $60/mo, and if it's just 1-2 and you don't watch Netflix at 4k, even 30Mbps at $40/mo is likely sufficient). Likely, you'll still have to call Cox and complain to them every 12 months or so to get the "promotional" pricing... threaten to quit every time they try to raise your prices and the like.

Setting it all up will involve telling Cox you're putting in the new equipment, and returning the old equipment. I suggest doing this all in-store. If you call, they're likely to insist on a "professional installation" which gets crazy expensive, especially since they don't really need to go to your place to do anything... they just need to flip a switch on their backend (in the Cox offices) to accept the MAC address of your new modem instead of the old one... and if you already own your own modem, they don't even need to do that much (since you wouldn't need to switch it out).

Setting up your own Wifi isn't complicated. Plenty of tutorials all over Google if you need them. Cox charging to install wifi and modems is a scam based entirely on people not realizing how easy it can be.

Source: Being a Senior-Level Computer Networking Professional.

(Now, a Lady like me could do it cheaper / better than what I suggest here, but it would require a bit more expertise)

I've used a dlink N300 extreme-N gigabit router, and it worked fine.
Also heard good stories about the Google router:
https://www.amazon.com/Google-Wifi-system-single-point/dp/B01MDJ0HVG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494824751&sr=8-1&keywords=google+router
But that's a wifi point, and I don't know if you need ethernet connection.

For outdoor use, the Ubiquiti models are fairly solid, and are designed to be water resistant

Buyer's Warning: the initial configuration is not a walk in the park, but once you have it setup, you can set it and forget it. I use these as part of a small business deployment. There are plenty of guides for setup, you can even use your smart phone to set it up. Once configured, you just plug a LAN cable from your router to it and it extends the service

Here is one that I personally use
https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-UAP-AC-M-US-Unifi-Access-Point/dp/B01N9FIELY

Here is the link to the mobile app to configure the WAP. I advise reading up on this process to see if this is a product that you want to buy.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubnt.easyunifi

huh, thanks. The Amazon link I found was this one https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-Enterprise-System-AP-Pro-UAP-PRO/dp/B00HXT8T5O

This doesnt seem so bad now
What is the difference in the POE?

I had similar issue, I tried powerline adapters but speeds were lot less than full
Speed of my internet connection. I used a mesh network in end. Here is an article explaining
https://www.linksys.com/us/r/resource-center/whole-home-mesh-wifi/

I used this one https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Orbi-Ultra-Performance-Whole-System/dp/B01K4CZOBS/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1549711221&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=orbi+wifi+system&dpPl=1&dpID=31ZWyXmx3YL&ref=plSrch

Though there are cheaper alternatives.
Also did you try using a different channel on your router from default setting as that sometimes can help with noise on and interference with other routers in the area.

1.6k Reviews and its a 3.5/5 Star item on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Luma-Whole-Home-WiFi-Pack/dp/B017DV1BPG?th=1

Edit: Woot is showing the 4-Star refurbished rating.

https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Orbi-Home-WiFi-System/dp/B01K4CZOBS

This is the two satellite package. Depending on budget and sq ft you could definitely be fine with the one satellite package.

https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-Home-Wi-Fi-Router-AFI-R/dp/B01L9O07FS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1483259523&sr=8-1&keywords=AmpliFi+Mesh+Router

How about this one? It's cheaper than an AirPort Extreme - will it be better performance and range?

I highly recommend the Deco. A few months back before I was about to convert a great deal of my house to automation, I first had to solve my crappy, spotty wireless. I ordered the Deco with minimal hopes but I have been blown away with how well it performs. I haven't heard any of the Echoes say "Your Echo has lost it's connection!" in so long...

Is your new house bigger? Might not have as good wifi coverage.

For a whole home coverage check into eero, orbi or even looks like google has just made a system as well https://www.amazon.com/Google-Wifi-system-set-replacement/dp/B01MAW2294/ref=pd_sim_147_24?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01MAW2294&pd_rd_r=15Q8VCB0MY4KTBRGMFD0&pd_rd_w=YQXJH&pd_rd_wg=nA2eq&psc=1&refRID=15Q8VCB0MY4KTBRGMFD0

I went with google wifi. It was plug and play and immediately alleviated the annoyance around the numerous streaming services that rule my life.

My neighbor has the meshforce and is similarly pleased with it.

It's a bit expensive but this was literally made for people with large houses like you: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00XEW3YD6/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467908105&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=eero&dpPl=1&dpID=319KoZ81d3L&ref=plSrch

AmpliFi HD (High-Density) Home Wi-Fi System
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9O08PW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_hX3KAbJ7AA2K6

This router covers my garage and 1600 sqft house in 5ghz at 90-85% signal strength.

I think it creates a home mesh like google wifi, except you pay 29aed monthly per room/device to rent the hardware.

So thats 696aed~$189 for 2 years for one room, 2088aed~$569 for 3 rooms. Compare that to the cost of google wifi which is $117 for 1 or $259 for 3.

I am running an ER-X-SFP (Ubiquiti) with HWNAT Offload enabled, and an UAP-AC-PRO for wireless.

You can get both of these for <$100 each if you find them "Used" on Amazon. They work well in this setup. HMU if you need config examples.

EDIT:

[UAP-AC-PRO Amazon] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00HXT8T5O/ref=olp_f_new?ie=UTF8&f_new=true)

[ER-X-SFP Amazon] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B012X45WH6/ref=olp_f_new?ie=UTF8&f_new=true)

Yes, thats high. my cams that work without issues are in the 40s.

I was using this prior: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KWHMR6G/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have this now:
https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Deco-Whole-System-3-Pack/dp/B06WVCB862/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1526500133&sr=1-3&keywords=tp+link+deco

If this is your house and not a rental, I would highly suggest buying a 1000' box of cable and wiring the place up. Otherwise, get yourself a mesh Wi-Fi setup for your router/wireless coverage, and get at least 2 nodes to cover all 3 floors. If you get two units, put one on the lowest level and one on the highest, or of upi buy a 3 pack put one on each floor on opposite sides of the house. So the one in the lowest floor would be at the front of the house, middle floor would be towards the back of the house, top floor would be at the front of the house again. As far as what modem to get just check the carrier approved modem list and buy whatever's cheap that has good reviews on Amazon.

I replaced it just now with this:

AmpliFi HD WiFi System by Ubiquiti Labs, Seamless Whole Home Wireless Internet Coverage, HD WiFi Router, 2 Mesh Points, 4 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 WAN Port, Ethernet Cable, Replaces Router & WiFi Extenders https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9O08PW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_XHPXBb7896XJB

Liking it so far!

This is what I’d get you.


TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch | Ethernet Splitter | Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports | Plug-and-Play | Traffic Optimization | Unmanaged (TL-SG105) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A128S24/


Google WiFi system, 3-Pack - Router replacement for whole home coverage (NLS-1304-25) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MAW2294/

Modem -> google WiFi -> switch -> other WiFi pucks.

The google WiFi’s don’t have to be wired. It’s better if they are, but you can just put them around your house to increase WiFi coverage.

I have 4 around my house. Main one wired to another one. Two of them with no wires.

I think I'm leaning toward the Orbi. What would you suggest for a modem? I have the xFinity Gigabit service and it looks like it's a cable wire connection.

Something like this?

Yeah, I have 2 of these, one is running the lights on my headboard plus the lights under my bed that come on with motion to serve as a walking/night light and phone chargers.

The other is basic network equipment for Sonos, Hue, SmartThings and a little Plex server as well as a network switch, a smart RF remote and a Huge Bloom.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078YLFFXL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_dWpPDbYJ337H1

I had the Wifi problem too, but I've solved it by just upgrading the backbone of my network and pulling a network switch to other "low priority" devices.

Now I can run a theoretical 200+ devices at the same time without breaking a sweat.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9O08PW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_b0pPDbSVWWM8W

https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-Enterprise-System-AP-Pro-UAP-PRO/dp/B00HXT8T5O

I use one of these. It's fucking spectacular. It's only an access point though so might be out of your price range if you factor in a separate router. I do highly recommend any of ASUS's RT line.

I ended up going with a refurbished Netgear Orbi RBR53 wireless mesh system. I’m not recommending this unless you truly need it. It’s overkill for most applications but my coverage was terrible and I found a fantastic deal. I didn’t really have many options to get wired connections in my bedroom so I did this.

Edit: clarification and links

Like this https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-High-Density-Home-Wi-Fi-System/dp/B01L9O08PW/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1527695765&sr=8-11&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=Ubiquiti&dpPl=1&dpID=419zbDrMBPL&ref=plSrch

just get a mesh network like Google Wifi https://www.amazon.com/Google-WiFi-system-3-Pack-replacement/dp/B01MAW2294

try a mesh system like Google Wifi

I dont know a ton about powerline adapter setups like others have mentioned... But what is a new thing is WiFi Systems, where you have multiple access points that go through the same network. I have the Google Wifi 3 point mesh system on sale at amason there are two Ethernet ports on each box, except for the one that will be in use to connect to your modem. So the potential to hardwire in multiple rooms. And it's been very reliable wifi performance

This is what I recommend, one of the Unifi AC Mesh's. It's made for the outdoors. $88 on amazon.

I recently redid my stuff and while I ended up not getting one of these and just two indoor AC Pro's I did the research and was very close to pulling the trigger. In the end I was able to get the outdoor coverage I needed from positioning of my indoor AC Pros.

Okay.

Then should I get 2 Amplifi HD sets(https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-Ubiquiti-Seamless-Wireless-Extenders/dp/B01L9O08PW)

Or 2 Amplifi HD base routers(https://www.amazon.com/AmpliFi-Ubiquiti-Seamless-Wireless-Extenders/dp/B01L9O07FS?th=1)?

https://www.amazon.com/Actiontec-Bonded-Ethernet-Adapter-ECB6200K02/dp/B013J7O3X0
The speeds can run up to gigabit and most rooms seem to have a coax port ran to them. If there are going to be multiple devices you can attach an AP to the moca adapter to get wifi upstairs too.
If you don't want to run something like that you could look into https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-UAP-AC-M-US-Unifi-Access-Point/dp/B01N9FIELY/ and you could just add more as you find you need more coverage around the house