We have FIOS' Quantum internet/TV/phone service. The internet "speed" we're paying for is their 75 Mbps upload/75 Mbps download choice. The router we have is Verizon's Actiontec MI424WR Rev 1.
We have two main wireless network issues we hope to address by purchasing a new router and using it with the Actiontec. Being able to have a Guest network (the Actiontek doesn't provide one) and getting more range (our home is two story - about 3500 sf).
Of course, overall improved wireless performance is the next wish.
In terms of what is connected to our network: We have 3 PCs, an Onkyo Receiver, an Oppo Blu-Ray Player, a SONOS Bridge, a SONOS Connect, and a Roku2, all as wired connections (there's also a Chromecast plugged into a USB port on the Blu-Ray player - I don't know whether that counts or not); and we have two wireless printers, two notebook computers, two tablets, two phones, and two SONOS players that connect wirelessly. In addition, we have friends and family who come over frequently and want to connect their multiple devices via our WiFi - thus, the need to have a Guest network.
We understand that the Actiontec router can be configured so that it will continue to handle the FIOS TV and phone, but to pass handling of all of the wired and wireless internet connections to a separate (hopefully more capable) router. So that's what we believe we'd like to do.
We've read good things about ASUS routers in general, but we're finding that choosing one is a challenge. There are many recommendations for the AC68U (or AC68P) and we've also read good things about the AC88U (particularly that it has 4 more wired ports that the others) and the AC3200.
What we would like to have are pros/cons of these 3 routers for our home. 8 Gigabit connections is nice, but I presume we can accomplish essentially the same by attaching a 5, 8, or 10 port Gigabit switch. If so, then the number of ports on the router really isn't an issue. I'm sure all can provide Guest network(s), but we're having trouble determining which is likely to provide the most range and whether we need a two or three band router.
Any and all thoughts and recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
We have two main wireless network issues we hope to address by purchasing a new router and using it with the Actiontec. Being able to have a Guest network (the Actiontek doesn't provide one) and getting more range (our home is two story - about 3500 sf).
Of course, overall improved wireless performance is the next wish.
In terms of what is connected to our network: We have 3 PCs, an Onkyo Receiver, an Oppo Blu-Ray Player, a SONOS Bridge, a SONOS Connect, and a Roku2, all as wired connections (there's also a Chromecast plugged into a USB port on the Blu-Ray player - I don't know whether that counts or not); and we have two wireless printers, two notebook computers, two tablets, two phones, and two SONOS players that connect wirelessly. In addition, we have friends and family who come over frequently and want to connect their multiple devices via our WiFi - thus, the need to have a Guest network.
We understand that the Actiontec router can be configured so that it will continue to handle the FIOS TV and phone, but to pass handling of all of the wired and wireless internet connections to a separate (hopefully more capable) router. So that's what we believe we'd like to do.
We've read good things about ASUS routers in general, but we're finding that choosing one is a challenge. There are many recommendations for the AC68U (or AC68P) and we've also read good things about the AC88U (particularly that it has 4 more wired ports that the others) and the AC3200.
What we would like to have are pros/cons of these 3 routers for our home. 8 Gigabit connections is nice, but I presume we can accomplish essentially the same by attaching a 5, 8, or 10 port Gigabit switch. If so, then the number of ports on the router really isn't an issue. I'm sure all can provide Guest network(s), but we're having trouble determining which is likely to provide the most range and whether we need a two or three band router.
Any and all thoughts and recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.