Ok, so I’ve been dealing with Asus routers for a while but over the last few years I’ve been having issues with them either dropping WiFi bands (but still saying they’re broadcasting) or just straight stop working (but all lights are still lit properly). So I’m at the point of not trusting them for anything mission critical. (RT-AC86U, RT-N56U)
The household right now is 2 adults working from home with Google Meet and sheets being used a decent amount with hardwired computers. Most wifi clients are smarthome things and a few cell phones. Streaming is currently limited to one hardwired Chromecast. I currently have an external HD attached to my router that’s used as a semi-NAS to mostly backup phone photos. It then synchs to off-site.
At this moment I’m now looking for a modem, switch (managed vs unmanaged?), and I guess one AP. If needed I can try adding one of the Asus routers as a second hardwired AP. I think I need around 6 ports but wouldn’t be opposed to having space for 12. ISP is Spectrum and am considering gigabit but currently receiving 140Mbps down, 11 up on 5ghz wifi. I’m using ISP provided modem, then whatever router/switch I end up with. I don’t really understand the difference between managed and unmanaged switches and what I need.
Based on a previous post I found a parts list would look like this:
TP-Link ER605
Aruba Instant On Switch (1430 8port or 1830)
Aruba Instant On AP22
But I’m open to other suggestions for parts or brands etc. Thanks for all the help!
For the sake of convenience and troubleshooting go all in on one brand. Mix and match might save you cash now but waste time in the future.
Omada is well priced and solid hardware. As others have mentioned the ER605 might cap out. The ER7206 might work better in the long term.
