Better router to replace plusnet fibre

413x · 2 Jun 2019 at 13:58

Looking to replace the standard plusnet router/modem that came with our service

Any recommendations?

Also I know routers come in a specified connection type. All I know is we have a open reach fibre connection.
What exactly do I need to look for ?

Zefan · 2 Jun 2019 at 14:03

It depends. The key thing to know is that your plusnet device is in fact a modem, router, switch and wireless access point all in one. The ideal technical solution would be to separate all these functions, but obviously that probably isn't possible due to domestic circumstances such as noise, space, cost, and aesthetic. This then becomes a matter of tailoring a solution for the required task. So, what is the task? Why do you want to change from the provided Plusnet device?

413x · 2 Jun 2019 at 14:06

Also, under our around 100, didn't realise how expensive some of these are

Happy to go second hand

413x · 2 Jun 2019 at 14:08

Zefan said:
It depends. The key thing to know is that your plusnet device is in fact a modem, router, switch and wireless access point all in one. The ideal technical solution would be to separate all these functions, but obviously that probably isn't possible due to domestic circumstances such as noise, space, cost, and aesthetic. This then becomes a matter of tailoring a solution for the required task. So, what is the task? Why do you want to change from the provided Plusnet device?

One reason is wireless gaming would be nice. Rather not have to use ethernet everywhere in house.
I want to attach a USB 3 hdd.
Old router often drops out, it may be the line, but when a new device comes on it flakes out.

Also, in near future will be moving into a large house, more penetration of walls would be great

Also, left old router at old house and won't be back for 2 weeks!

So modem and router all in one would be nice

bremen1874 · 2 Jun 2019 at 14:52

Why isn't 'wireless gaming' possible with the existing router?

Almost any router will suck it you ask it to work as a NAS by connecting a USB drive to it. There are exceptions, but you'd need to spend a lot.

You really need to know whether it's a router or line problem you're having before you start replacing things.

More expensive/higher spec routers aren't necessarily going to be any better at getting signals through walls. They're all limited to the same maximum transmit levels.

For a large house, you either want a mesh system or run Ethernet and have multiple access points. Depending on the size of the house you may be able to get away with a single access point if you can get it located in an optimal position. One of the main problems with having a single router is that they are often located in the wrong place because that's where the line comes into the house.