Recommendation for new modem/router?

Floob · 8 Apr 2018 at 17:02

Hi,

I currently have a Huawei HG635 router from TalkTalk.
TalkTalk are my ISP, and I am on a 76Mb fibre service with them.

Its pretty old - I think it first came out in 2015, and I'm getting a few connection problems as well as limited firmware functionality issues with it.

I was looking for replacements such as the Asus RT-AC86U, but then read that this is just the router component without a modem like the HG635 has built in.

Which models are popular that have the modem and router functionality in one unit?
I connect approx 10-15 wireless devices, plus about 8 wired to it.

Thanks for any pointers.

Floob.

Floob · 8 Apr 2018 at 19:06

Thanks for the tip. Good to know even the older Asus have a good reputation and can use merlin firmware.
I'll check that model out.

I think the Huawei does have a modem only mode, but I just dont trust the device anymore.

Floob · 8 Apr 2018 at 22:38

@bremen1874 Yep, I just had a look and it does seem that merlin is just for RT models. Although as the Asus firmware seems streets ahead of the built in Huawei TalkTalk models, I think it'll be fine.

@BigT I would really like the ability to view the data transfer usage, as well as set device access by MAC.
The connection issues are really poor performance when trying to service multiple wireless devices, I feel as though it struggles to send data sometimes - no hard facts on it, but I get the impression an updated router may improve performance. Wireless devices (PCs with ac cards) about 3 walls away get about 20Mb down with the router connecting at 70Mb, the local PC connected by Cat5 get abouts 60Mb down.