Modem
 

What is the latest word in a 'full service' modem these days? Something that will handle everything (cable TV, high-speed internet, wireless WiFi, etc.). Any one modem better than another, or just whatever the "tech" (I use the term loosely) at Best Buy suggests.

There are several, but I recommend separates if possible. Will it also handle phone? then you need a telephony modem, which greatly limits choices.

We use a separate cable modem (small and cheap, easy to upgrade and replace, as we did when went to gigabit internet speeds), and a high-end wifi router.

So: cable modem - choose one from your providers list - Motorola is common; refurbished can be had for very little $$.

Wifi Router - I like the high end models from Asus - good user interface, very good internet filters (if you have kids); great range - no need for a mesh network (for us). Spend your money here.

These don't need to be co-located.

I would second the recommendation to use separate modem and router. The best routers at reasonable prices I’ve encountered don’t do double duty as modems.

For a router, if you want configurability, network monitoring capability, and other features including mesh capability with an optional add-on, the Synology RT2600ac is excellent. If you need more coverage, adding an R2200ac gives flawless mesh coverage.

I’m kind of stuck using the Xfinity gigabit service modem and I have no complaints but as a router the Google mesh Wi-Fi with 3 capsules cover the whole house with blazing speed. :thumbsup: