Time to replace old router?

gord · 30 Nov 2014 at 14:38

So I've had my trusty Netgear DG834G v3 for about 6 years, maybe more. It works, but should I be replacing it with something newer? If so, what?

I don't think my model was affected by the backdoor exploit posted earlier in the year. But if I can get better WiFi coverage, maybe even better connection speed then that would be great.

I'm on Max ADSL with a 3-4 meg connection speed, which I don't think is too bad for where I am. We have an RFS date for FTTC as December, but I don't expect it to actually be here till mid way through 2015 considering a larger neighbouring village has theirs as September and still no activation.

Any help is much appreciated.

Bane · 30 Nov 2014 at 15:32

There was a firmware update released for the TCP backdoor (UK version link below).
http://kb.netgear.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/24944

I'm considering a Billion 8800NL when I upgrade, in case FTTC ever arrives.

Regretted not buying it when £59. And the internal aerials are meant to be detrimental to Wi-Fi coverage.

KIA · 30 Nov 2014 at 15:38

Budget?

gord · 30 Nov 2014 at 16:01

KIA said:
Budget?

I want something that will last a decent amount of time. I don't know if you can get ones that can handle ADSL and fibre? £60-80?

Thanks Bane, looks interesting.

Bane · 30 Nov 2014 at 16:58

Yep the above Billion is an all-in-one solution for current ADSL service and includes a VDSL modem for future switch to FTTC.

There are other makes such as Asus DSL-N66U and DSL-AC68U that cost more, but the Broadcom chipset the Billion uses might be more suitable.

Worth noting that VDSL built-in modem units all seem hit and miss. Too early to know which will be the most stable after all the firmware updates.

InQ · 30 Nov 2014 at 18:31

I have a DG834GT and bought the RT-AC68U (well actually bought 2, one for each side of the house so can get 5GHz nice and strong anywhere).
As the RT model doesnt have a modem built in i use the DG834GT on modem only mode and connect it to the RT's WAN port.
When FTTC comes (same as you, 31/12, cab has been installed since August) i will get a BT Openreach modem and plug that in instead.

The RT's have been solid and the wifi range excellent.
I have loaded the Merlin Forked firmware and with it you can increase the wifi power to increase range even more - http://forums.smallnetbuilder.com/showthread.php?t=19262

Only downside is its more like £140-150.

gord · 1 Dec 2014 at 15:35

Thanks guys, great info. I think I'm going to do a bit more research into the models Bane suggested. I do like the all-in-one style, but I'd prefer external aerials so I can pump wifi further.

Inq, how do you know when/if cabs have been installed? Or did you go and physically look?

InQ · 1 Dec 2014 at 19:17

You have to look really. Do you know which cab you are connected to?
You can check the number by putting your phone number in https://www.btwholesale.com/includes/adsl/adsl.htm

The normal cabs have a number on them.
There should be a newer larger cab with vents nearby, maybe next to it or within say 15-20m usually, this would be a Fibre cab.