FTTC + Wifi Router (TP-Link ARcher?)

PaulCa · 18 Dec 2018 at 14:12

So I upgraded to PlusNet fibre and they sent me a rebranded HomeHub, while this works it blocks the 10.x.x.x range which I use for networking for a number of reason, not least it's faster to type and easier to divide up for routing.

So my network is now divided and a lot of it is broken. Some devices have to be reflashed to change IP addresses.

So I am going to change the router.

I was looking at a TP-Link Archer VR600 but ebay seems to be flooded with seller refurbished items, further digging suggests that Talk-Talk are giving these away for free and people are blaming the router for poor service... which is more likely the TalkTalk service, but it made me wary.

I'm probably going to pick something up in Currys or PCWorld tonight, just thought I'd look for ideas.

I am aware, as my cabinet is a Haweui that I should be seeking a Broadcom chip set router.

Suggestions welcome.
Budget: £150
Required: FTTC, Wifi, DHCP
Ideal: Static routes, advanced GUI or CLI, etc.

pcfarrar · 18 Dec 2018 at 14:54

You'd be better off getting a BCM based modem like the HG612 and then you won't be restricted on router choice.

PaulCa · 18 Dec 2018 at 15:32

Nice idea, I went that way last time with a NetGear modem + Linksys Wifi, but right now I need to upgrade both and might as well go for an all in one.

Not sure about the HG612. I get that it's a nice modem, but as most of those available are refurbed openreach devices I cannot be sure the 10.x.x.x network is not locked out of them also.

pcfarrar · 18 Dec 2018 at 16:14

HG612 is just a transparent bridge modem. So your local network can be anything you want.

The TP-Link VR600 is probably your best bet for a cheap BCM combined router/modem.

PaulCa · 19 Dec 2018 at 11:15

Bridge modem would create a layer 2 bridge onto the LAN segment. That would require a firewall, which of course a NAT router would provide, but you would be advised to physically (Layer 1 and 2) separate the two networks through the router.

In the end I went with a VR900 in PCWorld for £119.

Rather disappointingly it was up and running in 5 minutes with my LAN back on 10.x.x.x and all my various little devices connected to the Wifi straight away and started working again. No challenge at all.

Quick tests and I can get the full 36Mbit of my Internet on both 5.8Ghz and 2.4Ghz, including at the furthest point in the house. I haven't tested the outright Wifi speeds, but as most of my house is cat 5 wired anyway it's not a concern for just my phone and laptop in the bedroom.