Thoughts on a DSL Modem/Router Please

cloud_dog

Hi

Am looking for some assistance for buying a new DSL modem/router.

Current Situation

Netgear DG834PN

Am frequently needing to reboot the router as the WiFi appears to degrade and eventually fails to connect through to the outside world.

I've checked and I am running the latest firmware (no further updates have been made available for a while now; yes, old router).

What I'm Looking For:

I live a fair distance from my exchange. No FTTC yet (annoyingly BT got to within one cabinet of mine and stopped; unsure why), but I would assume it will complete rollout at some point <<finders crossed>>.

I could go cable (Virgin) but unsure I really want to plus cost for broadband only is prohibitive.

1. Due to exchange distance I am looking for a router that must use the Broadcom chipset, as this appears to be very well regarded for longer connection lengths. Re the chipset; need to be careful as some may use the Broadcom for Wifi but not the ADSL/VDSL connectivity
2. FTTC / Cable connectivity for the router is a consideration but not a high one
3. Router with 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz is a must
4. Router without AC connectivity is not a show stopper (basically looking for good 'N' WiFi speeds
5. (Hate to say this as a good MSE'er but) Price point isn't a primary consideration
6. VPN functionality. I don't currently utilise this functionality but the concept very much appeals but, not a must have
7. Would prefer all gigabit ports but, not a show stopper as I have a gigabit switch
   Would prefer all gigabit ports but, not a show stopper as I have a gigabit switch

Ones I've looked in to are:

Billion - very well liked for actual speed, especially the ability to tailor SRN etc. I've considered the:
* 7800DX or 7800DXL (No VPN)
* 8800NL or 8800AXL (heard the WiFi is not great on NL and AXL). Believe there is a new router on its way 8900?? which resolves some of the primary complaints around the 8800 series.

Netgear - Just because that's what I know and most of their routers use Broadcom. They do have a vast array of routers and some of the reviews have been a little negative on the newer ones on WiFi speed over range.

TP-Link routers use the Broadcom chipset but for some reason I've never been inclined so go with TP-Link

Asus DSL-AC68U - I was considering this one but it is the one that uses Broadcom as the WiFi chip and not the ADSL/VDSL chip.

I know this is a bit of a needle in a haystack question but your thoughts/guidance would be welcome as I've found myself deciding on one, following a Google trail of reviews/comments etc, and being swayed by another where I get to the point I just close all my tabs down and think I'll deal with it tomorrow.

Fightsback

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cloud_dog

Fightsback wrote: »

Are you stuck in a current phone contract that stops you moving your phone ti Virgin

No, its just that my company pays for my broadband costs so keeping everything separate tends to save me money.

epninety

If you're doing the sensible thing and putting stability and reliability above cost, then I'd look to see if there's anything in the current Draytek lineup that ticks your boxes. Maybe a little trickier to set up, not much hand holding for the novices, but the two I have give me no grief at all. I've had a few Billion boxes over the years, none has been entirely hassle free, though I've never been unhappy with them. If the Billion in my office dies, I'll put another Draytek in its place without a second thought.