Need suggestions on a modem/router/

[Justinquast]

I recently have just gotten a gaming computer that works great. The only problem is I have a big family with lots of devices on the Wifi. Unfortunately the router is in the basement which doesn't help me because my computer is in my room. I would like to buy a modem/router combo that I can use Ethernet for my computer. It would be nice if it was on the cheaper side.
Thanks

 

[kanewolf]

If you want a modem/router combo are you going to purchase a new internet service? Otherwise you need an ethernet cable from your existing router. Then you may want a WIFI access point if you want WIFI.

 

[littleleo]

I'm not a WiFi fan for gaming I've had bad experiences gaming wireless. Perhaps try a powerline adapter kit. You plug one in to an outlet next to your router and run cat5e wire from the router to it. Then plug the other adapter near your computer. Then run a cat5e cable from it to your computer. Of course they need to be on the same power grid.

https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Powerline-Adapter-Starter-TL-PA4010KIT/dp/B00AWRUICG

 

[Justinquast]

I'm not a WiFi fan for gaming I've had bad experiences gaming wireless. Perhaps try a powerline adapter kit. You plug one in to an outlet next to your router and run cat5e wire from the router to it. Then plug the other adapter near your computer. Then run a cat5e cable from it to your computer. Of course they need to be on the same power grid.

https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Powerline-Adapter-Starter-TL-PA4010KIT/dp/B00AWRUICG

I am buying a whole separate modem/router. I need advice on what to buy.

 

[Justinquast]

If you want a modem/router combo are you going to purchase a new internet service? Otherwise you need an ethernet cable from your existing router. Then you may want a WIFI access point if you want WIFI.

Yeah I want to purchase a whole new internet service.

 

[kanewolf]

Your ISP will have a list of approved modems. Choose from that list. I recommend purchasing a separate router and modem and connect them via an ethernet cable. Why, because routers evolve much faster than modems and by making them separate devices you can change or upgrade either one without impacting the other.

If you choose to buy an integrated unit, it is much less flexible for reuse.

 

[littleleo]

Kane is right you need to get a list of compatible Cable models/Routers from your ISP. Try checking on their website many list compatible models their. I would also talk to tech support to double check the model you select will work with the service your buying before you buy it.

 

[dbratton54]

I have used my own cable modem and router for years with Comcast. If you are going to do the same, do buy them separately. There is no reason to buy a combo unit. The savings in cost is too small to justify the downsides. And routers have changed much more rapidly than modems over the past few years.

Most ISPs will provide you with a combo unit that they call a gateway for a monthly fee, but they are usually low quality. You will want to make sure to get a docsis 3.0 compliant modem. I have been using a Netgear cable modem for years now with nary an issue.

Lots of good routers out there; both Asus and Linksys have some good stuff. I would go ahead and get one that had wifi, 802.11 a/c and mimo. Even if you are running a cable between your gaming rig and the router you will enjoy having that wifi for your phone, tablet, tv, and what not.

And don't be afraid to use ISP supplied hardware for a little while if money is tight. You can use their stuff while you get well-educated on what hardware you need/want.

Finally, you can also buy just the modem first if you really need the hardwired connection for just your computer, then later get the router.

P.S. Most cable installers will install their cable in the simplest possible manner. In your case, that would be to put it right where you already have service downstairs. Make sure they know where you need to place the cable modem and if at all possible, be there when the installer is there. They may charge extra to run cables.

 

[kanewolf]

Everybody is jumping to the conclusion that this is a coax modem. We have no evidence from the OP what type of external service is available. Could be DSL, could be fiber, could be coax. We don't know. A docsis 3.0 modem does NO GOOD for a ADSL connection.

The best answer is to get the list from the ISP website for the supported devices. See if there are discrete modems listed for the tier of service you are purchasing.

For a router, I do like Asus. An AC1900 router is the current sweet-spot for price performance. An Asus RT-AC68U or a Netgear R7000 are two of the best.