Need to upgrade our router/modem combo to something that pushes out stronger/further signal strength. My current setup is plus 4 years old and doesn't have the torque to get to the different rooms of the house we're in now. It's like to stay at our below $200. TIA.
Router/Modem Combo for Mediacom
- Thread starter Stewo
- Start date
I picked up a refurbished Arris surf board on Amazon and I've been happy with it. I know you are shooting to keep it under $200 but you definitely want to avoid an all in one unit. If you can open your budget some I would go with a Google Mesh system. It has been an absolute game changer for our house, especially with my wife and I both working from home.
Big house? Gotta be mesh network.
You can probably keep the modem itself, just set it to bridge mode (basically modem-only mode, disables the router half).
You can probably keep the modem itself, just set it to bridge mode (basically modem-only mode, disables the router half).
I'm not sure what you'll need for a modem so I'll let others comment on that. I have Centurylink.
Either way, I'd recommend a standalone wireless router. You'll have much more control of the setup and admin.
I'd go with this TP-Link:
If you can squeeze a little more out of the budget, I'd absolutely agree with Bill - go with a mesh system.
I've always heard the eero models were the best (also most spendy though). But people have said the Google mesh is good in other threads.
Either way, I'd recommend a standalone wireless router. You'll have much more control of the setup and admin.
I'd go with this TP-Link:
Amazon.com: TP-Link WiFi 6 AX3000 Smart WiFi Router – 802.11ax Router, Gigabit Router, Dual Band, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Parental Controls, Free HomeCare,Works with Alexa(Archer AX50): Computers & Accessories
Amazon.com: TP-Link WiFi 6 AX3000 Smart WiFi Router – 802.11ax Router, Gigabit Router, Dual Band, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Parental Controls, Free HomeCare,Works with Alexa(Archer AX50): Computers & Accessories
www.amazon.com
If you can squeeze a little more out of the budget, I'd absolutely agree with Bill - go with a mesh system.
I've always heard the eero models were the best (also most spendy though). But people have said the Google mesh is good in other threads.
Amazon.com: Amazon eero Pro mesh WiFi system (1 Pro + 2 Beacons): Amazon Devices
Amazon.com: Amazon eero Pro mesh WiFi system (1 Pro + 2 Beacons): Amazon Devices
www.amazon.com
I should add, the house we're in now is temporary. The layout makes it difficult for the signal to reach the tvs. At our house, the tvs are very close to the point where the cable comes into the house.
So, how does it work to use our current "in-one" as only a modem and then add a router? That might make the most sense.
So, how does it work to use our current "in-one" as only a modem and then add a router? That might make the most sense.
If you call Mediacom they should be able to change the settings so that it operates as only a modem. Either way, if it's a mediacom modem I would recommend getting your own equipment and saving the lease fee. Their equipment is absolute garbage.
It's our own. I learned that lesson a long time ago. Would I still need to call them to have them change the settings or is that something I would do?
You would only need to call if you change modems. They need to "activate" any new modem.
I would think you would be able to change that in the settings
I've never dealt with Mediacom before but I know a fair amount about routers/modems. If you're unfamiliar with how to do it, you may be able to take your new modem to a Mediacom office and have them provision it for you (punching in the numbers to make sure it's correct and flipping it to the new one). The router is on you to setup.
I have a 3 puck google snow mesh. Placed them in a triangle pattern and its been miles better than what we had.
CycloneErik
Well-Known Member
We plugged in an $80-90 Netgear router to our Mediacom router and have no issues at all.
Setup is easy. You wouldn't have any troubles.
Well, maybe one. We bought it at Wal-Mart, but finer outlets would carry it, too.
My parents have been luck with their 20 mb internet on Google's mesh network than I do running 100mb internet on a single linkeys router in the middle of my ranch home. I'll be upgrading once I see a good sale
I have mediacom 200 mbps service. I elected to use a CM1000 netgear modem docsis 3.1 and nest wifi (google). I get 260 mbps via wifi, rarely have issues. You plug in your own modem and call mediacom and they will detect it and provision it over the phone, easy peasy.
Actually, you can provision it yourself: https://mediacomcc.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/5780/~/mediacom-customer-activation-center
How many would you recommend? I see some are two packs, some three packs, guessing there are others.
We have 200 mb from mediacom. 1800 square foot house with set up in the basement. Stream TV. 3 kids with 1.5 of them in college. Oldest said he will just take online if he has his class schedule that is shaping up for next semester so he would be home and online. My daughter has online college classes in the morning and then goes to HS at lunchtime. I have a job that requires me to be online but not highspeed. Then throw in the two boys and their videogames, phones, and such.
