Do I need a new modem or should I get a router? Wi-Fi disconnects randomly + low bars

noctisxiii

Distinguished
Jul 6, 2010
9
0
18,510
Hey everyone,

I have centurylink service, I have a actiontec m1000 with the wi-fi attachment. When I connect the modem to my main computer upstairs it gets good networking (full bars fast connection).

Yet, my wi-fi is terrible because it disconnects randomly, and the computer downstairs always gets 2-3 bars and not full bars because it some reasons moves from medium to poor signal and disconnects. and streaming tends to lag with PS3/netflix/etc etc.


I do not have a wireless router but I am considering getting one, yet I am not sure if I should just get a

1) new modem

2)a router- This router

3) a modem router combo - This One

I actually have gotten a couple used modems but they either did not connect or they are really slow. What should I test to improve wi-fi for my basement computer and streaming?


Thank you!
 

RealBeast

Titan
Moderator
You are not likely to get a good wifi connection in the basement from a wireless radio on another floor unless you use a pair of ASUS RT-66U units with one upstairs as the router and one in the basement in AC media bridge mode like THIS, but that is pretty expensive.

What would probably give you the best connection would be to add an access point down in the basement that has either an Ethernet cable connection to the router upstairs or if not possible then a pair of Zxyel PLA5205 powerline adapters to bridge the distance between the router and AP (it is cheaper to buy the PLA5205kit than individually and they are expensive, but they perform much better than any other powerline units by a large margin).

The AP can be any inexpensive N router and you can use the other three LAN connectors on it other than the one used to connect to the router as a wired switch in addition to the wireless.

I would attach anything gaming or streaming to an LAN port instead of using it on wireless if it is near the AP in the basement.