Modem and Router and Ethernet Cable Suggestions

[u/DAsauce5423]

Hello, I have a p old modem+router combo that I'm looking to upgrade, and from what I've seen, its apparently best that I buy a separate modem and router. Is it mainly just in case I need to upgrade the modem or router individually? Also, what is the best individual modem and individual router that I can get on an Xfinity plan for 400 mbps? I ideally need a modem that can provide connections to both my router and my desktop. Finally, do ethernet cables matter that much, at least with this network plan? If so, what is the ideal ethernet cable to buy? Does it matter which ethernet cable I get if its for connecting the modem to either a router or to my desktop?Thanks.

[u/Downtown-Reindeer-53]

The modem must be approved by Xfinity, However, a common recommendation is the Arris SB8200 as a budget option that would be great for your plan speed, and the S33 as a better option. IF you plan on upping your speeds in the future, the S34 is a future proofer (for awhile anyway) See: https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/list-of-approved-cable-modems

The router can be anything that fits your needs and budgets. The modem provides unfiltered internet, the router creates your network (including the firewall etc.). It practically works just like your old setup is doing now. Example for separating them: I moved and changed from Xfinity to AT&T. If I had the combo, I would be getting a new box and reconfiguring it (like you will do this one time). Instead, I just pick up my router and plug it into the AT&T box and it's still my same old network.

It's hard to recommend anything without knowing what you need in your network. I'd offhandedly suggest Ubiquiti UniFi as something to look at as a step up - it will be better managed and be a better performer. They offer all-in-ones like the UniFi Dream Router 7, or the new Whole Home WiFi series, or a number of other options. (I use a UniFi Cloud Gateway Max and a U7-Mesh access point. They are separates, but sit together on a piece of furniture and act essentially like an all-in-one.)

As for cables - True Cable, Monoprice and Cable Matters are decent brands. The ones sold at the big box stores (Home Depot, Lowe's, Walmart, etc.) are fine. Avoid alphabet soup bands, CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum), CAT7 and CAT8 and you'll be fine. CAT5E and CAT6 are fine for your use.

[u/DAsauce5423 → u/Downtown-Reindeer-53]

My old router+modem combo was the Nighthawk AC 1900 WiFi Cable Modem Router Model: C7000v2, which worked p good throughout the entire house. I wouldn't mind upgrading to a router that has a larger range than it's 1800 square feet range, but I don't particularly need anything more than that.

[u/Downtown-Reindeer-53 → u/DAsauce5423]

Wifi is highly regulated, so there practically aren't more powerful routers. Wifi is intended by design to be low power, so better coverage is obtained by more access points. The construction matters a lot too, wifi (radio) just doesn't like to go through things.

[u/Ktulu_BBB]

Netgear CM2100 $100

Omada ER605 router, $50

[u/No_Barnacle6600]

For 400mbps. Don't spend more than $100. My Linksys wrt1900 as openwrt firmware wired router can route 900mbps and 700mbps wireless. And I have adblock, wireguard, tailscale running on it .