Which router for fibre optic broadband?

Hoseman

I understand there are slightly different requirements for routers when it comes to fibre optic versus standard broadband. Therefore I'd like some recommendations please. Looking for an excellent router that is reliable, easy to install and can handle quite a few devices (at least 20).

Thanks :-)

Buzby

Doesn't make a blind difference to the router - it still thinks you are connected by a copper connection. A genuine fibre router will only accept a fibre connector - not a UK telephone plug.

getmore4less

What are these different requirements you understand?

Don't think there has been a router for years that don't do the full 255 by DHCP or fixed IP

kwikbreaks

The "different requirement" is that the router needs an ethernet WAN port. These are often called "cable modems" because cable used to have a separate modem. VM now supply a modem/router combination in one box which they call their Superhub.

Before anybody can recommend a router they need to know what your budget is and what your WiFi requirements are - basic or hi bandwidth dual band. Also do you have a seperate BT fibre modem - if not you'll need a VDSL router and they are rarer and cost quite a bit more.

Asus and Linksys both produce pretty good dual band routers but you'll be looking at £100+.

Hoseman

I didnt realise there was a difference between a router and a modem/router so I need to get some clarification on it from the new ISP as its not for me and I don't even know what they currently have.

Let me get some clarification and Ill come back for suggestions. Thanks

JJ_Egan

AS an example Plusnet fibre .
Plusnet send out a router /wifi router .
Engineer brings the BT OR modem with him on setup.


Best to run the router for a few days before deciding if you want a more powerful wifi signal .

almillar

The ISP should be providing either a Fibre modem AND a router that has a WAN port, OR, for example Sky, have started prviding the newer routers that have a Fibre modem built in. No need for you (or whoever it is) to go and buy a new router.
If you do buy a router, you need to make sure it's a router, not an ADSL modem. Sometimes called a cable router, since it's what you would use if you had Virgin Media.

kwikbreaks

Hoseman wrote: »

I need to get some clarification on it from the new ISP

Just about all the ISPs will give you the option of free equipment that will get you going. That will either be an Openreach modem and a suitable router with WiFi or maybe a hub (combined modem/router again with WiFi). These usually offer only fairly basic router facilities and often just single band WiFi. The usual reason people need to upgrade is to support routing options not present in the free router or maybe to improve the WiFi.

Hoseman

Thanks for further replies.

Ok, they are providing a modem and we need to buy a router. Been advised it needs a WAN port (as mentioned) and PPPoe. They can supply the router but from what Ive read its not always the best equipment. So, what do you reckon I should go for and budget is around the £100 mark so anything lower or even higher within reason is OK as willing to consider.

kwikbreaks

It's really a question of what you need. I'm guessing you have little need of a router that has lots of tech type options such as DynDNS, VPN, or QoS. Unless you do need dual band WiFi then there is a fair chance that what the ISP offers although sneered at by geeks may well be perfectly OK for you. What model is on offer?

If you want specific recommendations for a good home user routers then I'd suggest the Asus RT-N66U is good but will exceed your £100 budget unless you find one secondhand.

forgotmyname

Use the router the ISP give you?

20 devices? Wired or wireless? Business package?