Recommended Routers: Difference between revisions

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== Recommended Routers ==
XMission has done testing and has verified the "manufacture" type is supported on the XMission/UTOPIA Network. Please note that the model of each router does change depending on the size of your home. Also be aware that each model may have a different version(v#). This can make a large difference and we ask you ensure you are purchasing the newest version of each router.


== Small (1-2 Room) Homes ==
When it comes to your connection, your router is one of the most important devices you can add to your home network. We know that routers are not cheap, however in order to meet the demand of your daily wifi needs, you may need to invest a little more money in a router that will cover your entire home with little dead spots.  
A small home is often considered a home with 1,500 square feet or less. This includes most apartment complexes and homes that have one or two unique rooms.  


'''Keep in mind that while any gigabit router is compatible, XMission recommends the following products based on feedback from our staff and customers. The products below are not required for service. You should choose a router that fits your budget.  '''
* Please remember XMission cannot guarantee advertised speeds over a wireless connection. When available we recommend the use of Ethernet cables.
<hr>
== XWi Home ==
The XWi Home is our recommended router setup.
=== 1G Router ===
* This router may be supplied to XMission customers. Contact Support for more details.
{|
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:U61-400px.png|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''GS4220E'''
<br>'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' XMission / Calix
<br>'''Model:''' GS4220E
'''Specifications: '''
* '''[https://wiki.xmission.com/images/7/7d/GS4220E-U.pdf GS4220E]'''
* Covers Approx. 2500 SqFt
* Check out [https://xmission.com/xwi XWi Home] for more info.
|}
=== 2G/2.5G/10G Router ===
{|
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:GS5229E-1.png|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''GS5229E'''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' XMission / Calix
<br>'''Model:''' GS5229E
<br>'''Specifications: '''
* '''[https://wiki.xmission.com/images/a/a6/GS5229E-U.pdf GS5229E]'''
* Covers Approx. 2500 SqFt
* Check out [https://xmission.com/xwi XWi Home] for more info.
|}
== Multi-Gig Routers ==
{|
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:W692.png|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | ''' [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BZFK3BF8 ASUS RT-BE96U]: '''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' ASUS
<br>'''Model:''' RT-BE96U Tri-band WiFi 7 Router
<br>'''Ports:''' 2 WAN / 1 Multi-Gig WAN / 4 LAN gigabit / 1 Multi-Gig LAN / 1 USB 3.0 / 1 USB 2.0
<br>'''Price:''' $524.99 - Amazon
<br>'''[https://www.asus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-be96u/techspec/ Product Specification]'''
<br>'''[https://www.asus.com/us/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/asus-gaming-routers/rt-be96u/helpdesk_manual?model2Name=RT-BE96U User Guide]'''
|}
<br><br>
{|
{|
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" |'''TP-Link Archer C7(v5)''' <br> [[File:TP-LinkC7v5.png|200px]] <p>*This router model was physically tested by XMission Support</p>
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" |[[File:Archer GE550 EU 1.0 overview 01 normal 20241009022721c.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" |'''Asus RT-AC68U''' <br> [[File:AusuRT-AC68U.jpeg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Archer-GE650-Acceleration-HomeShield/dp/B0DVV9KJSN TP-Link Archer GE650]'''
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" |'''Netgear R7000P''' <br> [[File:NetgearR7000P.png|200px]]
'''Specifications:'''
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
<br>'''Brand:''' TP-Link
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> The Archer C7 is a fast 802.11ac router with incredible range. It's better than many routers that are twice as expensive. This advanced Wi-Fi is designed for high-traffic online activities and can help to run applications at triple the speed of the previous 802.11n standard. <br><br><p>* [https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-c7/#specifications Product Specifications]</p><p>* [https://static.tp-link.com/2020/202001/20200113/1910012752_Archer%20C7A7_UG_REV5.1.1.pdf User Guide]</p><p>Router Interface http://tplinkwifi.net or http://192.168.0.1</p> </small>
<br>'''Model:''' GE650 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Gaming Router
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> The AC1900 (RT-AC68U) is a Dual Band Gigabit router that comes with AiProtection, Network Security, Mobile App, and supports the AiMesh system to allow for whole-home WiFi coverage. <br><br><p>* [https://www.asus.com/us/Networking/RTAC68U/specifications/ Product Specifications]</p><p>* [https://dlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AC68U/E14013_RT-AC68U_manual_v2.pdf User Guide]</p><p>* Router Interface http://router.asus.com or http://192.168.0.1</p> </small>
<br>'''Ports:''' 1 Multi-Gig WAN / 4 LAN on router /
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small>The R7000P is the first of Netgear's SmartWiFi Dual Band Gigabit routers. The R7000 supports the NETGEAR Nighthawk App, ReadyCLOUD®, OpenVPN, have access to a secure personal cloud, access home network remotely, and share photos stored on the storage from anywhere.<br><br><p>* [https://www.netgear.com/images/datasheet/networking/wifirouter/R7000P.pdf Product Overview]</p><p>* [http://www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/R7000P/R7000P_UM_EN.pdf User Guide]</p><p>* Router Interface http://routerlogin.net or Nighthawk App</p></small>
<br>'''Price:''' $249.99 - Amazon
<br>'''[https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ge650/#specifications Product Specification]'''
<br>'''[https://static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2024/202409/20240924/1910013678_Archer%20GE650&GE550_V1_UG.pdf User Guide]'''
|}
|}
<br><br>


== Medium (3-4 Room) Homes ==
== Gigabit Routers ==  
A medium home is often considered a home that is between 1,500 and 3,000 square feet. Most medium homes will have three or four unique rooms.
<br><br>
{|


<br><br>
{|
{|
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;"| '''TP-Link Archer C3150''' <br> [[File:TP-LinkArcherC3150.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:LinksysVelop-w.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;"| '''Asus RT-AC87U''' <br> [[File:AsusRT-AC87U.jpeg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://amzn.to/3HTSHVb Linksys Velop Mesh] '''
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;"| '''Netgear R7800''' <br> [[File:NetgearR7800.png|200px]]
'''Specifications:'''
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
<br>'''Brand:''' Linksys
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> The Archer C3150 V2 uses a Broadcom NitroQAM technology that provides a 25% increase in Wireless stability and speed. This provides smooth performance for 4K Streaming, Online Gaming and much more. <br><br><p>* [https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-c3150/#specifications Product Specifications]</p><p>* [https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/RRlL8cESL9M Settup Video]</p><p>* Router Interface http://tplinkwifi.net or TP-Link Tether App</p></small>
<br>'''Model:''' Velop AX4000 Tri Band Mesh
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> With Broadcom® TurboQAM™ technology stability and speeds increase 33% faster older models. This means RT-AC87U gives you lag-free online gaming, silky-smooth 4K/UHD video streaming, and effortlessly copes with even the most bandwidth-demanding tasks.<br><br><p>* [https://www.asus.com/us/Networking/RTAC87U/specifications/ Product Specifications]</p><p>* [https://dlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-AC87U/E9689_RT_AC87U_Manual.zip?_ga=2.221210651.266419516.1580747677-1740141374.1568133695 User Guide]</p><p>* Router Interface http://router.asus.com or http://192.168.0.1</p></small>
<br>'''Ports:''' 1 Gig WAN / 3 LAN gigabit / USB 3.0 per unit
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> With Netgear's next generation Wave2 WiFi—160MHz, MU-MIMO, Quad-stream technology. The R7800 should be able to produce a combined total of 2Gpbs in speed and performance allowing you to work anywhere within your house. <br><br><p>* [http://www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/datasheet/en/R7800.pdf Product Overview]</p><p>* [http://www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/R7000/R7000_UM.pdf User Guide]</p><p>* Router Interface http://routerlogin.net or Nighthawk App</p></small>
<br>'''Price:''' $349.99- Amazon 2-pack
<br>'''[https://www.linksys.com/us/velop-ax4000-tri-band-mesh-wifi-6-system-mx8000/p/p-mx8000/ Product Specifications]'''
<br>'''[https://downloads.linksys.com/support/assets/userguide/MX4000Series_UserGuide_INTL_LNKPG-00755_RevB00.pdf User Guide]'''
 
|}
|}
<br><br>
{|
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:NetgearNighthawk-w.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://amzn.to/3nrpJCt NETGEAR Nighthawk AX5400] '''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' NETGEAR
<br>'''Model:''' Nighthawk Pro AX5400
<br>'''Ports:''' 1 Gig WAN / 4 LAN gigabit / USB 3.0
<br>'''Price:''' $299.99- Amazon
<br>'''[https://www.netgear.com/home/wifi/routers/rax50/ Product Specifications]'''
<br>'''[https://www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/RAX50/RAX50_UM_EN.pdf User Guide]'''


== Large (4-6 Room) Homes ==
|}
A large home is often considered a home that is between 3,000 and 4,500 square feet. Most large homes will have four to six unique rooms.
<br><br>
{|
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:AsusRog-w.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://amzn.to/3u5vCcr ASUS ROG Rapture AX11000] '''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' ASUS
<br>'''Model:''' ROG Rapture WiFi 6 Gaming Router
<br>'''Ports:''' 1 Gig WAN / 2.5 Gig LAN / 4 LAN gigabit / USB 3.0
<br>'''Price:''' $349.99- Amazon
<br>'''[https://rog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-rapture-gt-ax11000-model/spec Product Specifications]'''
<br>'''[https://rog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-rapture-gt-ax11000-model/helpdesk_manual User Guide]'''
|}


{|
{|
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;"| '''TP-Link Archer C4000''' <br> [[File:TP-LinkArcherC4000.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:Er-x-01_grande.png|200px]]
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;"| '''Linksys EA7500 ''' <br> [[File:LinksysEA7500.jpg|200px]]<p>*This router model was physically tested by XMission Support</p>
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://amzn.to/3dxPDml EdgeRouter X] '''
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;"| '''Netgear R8000P''' <br> [[File:NetgearR8000.png|200px]]
'''Specifications:'''
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
<br>'''Brand:''' Ubiquiti Networks
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> TP-Link has crammed a-lot into a small box. This means you are able to have 1.8Ghz, 64bit quad core CPU with 512MB of ram processing your home network. Using the MU-MIMO technology, this C4000 lets you stream 4k and game will simultaneously playing music or photo sharing at a combined support of 2Gbps+. <br><br><p>* [https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-c4000/#specifications Product Specifications]</p><p>* [https://static.tp-link.com/2020/202001/20200115/1910012751_Archer%20C4000_UG_REV3.2.0.pdf User Guide]</p><p>* Router Interface http://tplinkwifi.net or TP-Link Tether App</p></small>
<br>'''Model:''' ER-X
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> Linksys has a 3x3 AC dual-core CPU built into this router giving you optimal coverage for your home. This means the whole family can play, stream and work online with minimal to no lag or buffering. <br><br><p>* [https://www.linksys.com/us/p/P-EA7500/ Product Specifications]</p><p>* [http://downloads.linksys.com/downloads/userguide/EA7500-MUG_International_20160610.pdf User Guide]</p><p>* Router Interface http://linksyssmartwifi.com or Linksys SmartWiFi App </p> <p> [[Recommended_Routers/Linksys_EA7500 | Additional Linksys Support]]</p></small>
<br>'''Ports:''' 5 Gb ports / 1 data/PoE input port, 3 data ports, 1 data/PoE passthrough port.
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> With breakthrough Tri-band WiFi and multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO) is ideal for simultaneous streaming to many WiFi devices in your home. The Nighthawk X6S works with Amazon Alexa™ & the Google® Assistant allowing you to control your home network using voice commands. <br><br><p>* [https://www.netgear.com/images/datasheet/networking/wifirouter/R8000P.pdf Product Overview]</p><p>* [http://www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/R8000P/R8000P_UM_EN.pdf User Guide] </p><p>* Router Interface http://routerlogin.net or Nighthawk App</p> </small>
<br>'''Price:''' $129.99 - Amazon
<br>'''[https://store.ui.com/collections/operator-edgemax-routers/products/edgerouter-x Product Specifications]'''
<br>'''[https://dl.ubnt.com/guides/edgemax/EdgeRouter_ER-X_QSG.pdf User Guide]'''
 
|}
|}


== Extra Large (8+ Rooms) Homes ==
<br><br>
An extra large home is often considered a home that is larger than 4,500 square feet. Most extra large homes will have more than eight unique rooms. For homes this large we recommend using a whole home mesh WiFi system. A mesh WiFi system typically has a main router that connects directly to your UTOPIA equipment. This is followed by satellite nodes or access points that you place around your house for full WiFi coverage. Together these create a single wireless network and share the same wireless name (SSID) and password.
{|
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:ER-10X.png|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://amzn.to/3pm4ROk EdgeRouter 10X] '''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' Ubiquiti Networks
<br>'''Model:''' ER-10X
<br>'''Ports:''' 1 RJ45 Serial Port / 10 Ethernet Ports / Port 0 Supports PoE in / Port 9 Supports PoE out
<br>'''Price:''' $129.99 - Amazon
<br>'''[https://store.ui.com/collections/routing-switching/products/edgerouter-10x Product Specifications]'''
<br>'''[https://dl.ubnt.com/qsg/ER-10X/ER-10X_EN.html User Guide]'''


{|
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;"| '''TP-Link Archer Deco M9Plus''' <br> [[File:TP-LinkDecoM9Plus.jpg|200px]] <p> *This router model was physically tested by XMission Support </p>
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;"| '''Netgear Orbi''' <br>[[File:NetgearOrbi.png|200px]]
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> The TP-Link Deco can guarantee a strong WiFi that will cover every corner of your home up to 6,500 square feet. These devices are a Tri-Band WiFi that creates a fast and secure connection to every devices you have. The Deco M9 Plus also will connect to and allow you to control your TP-Link smart home devices with out the need of an additional hub <p>* [https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/deco/deco-m9-plus/#specifications Product Specifications] </p> <p>* [https://www.tp-link.com/us/user-guides/deco-m9-plus_v1&v2/ User Guide] </p> <p>* Router Interface TP-Link Deco App  </p> <p>[[Recommended_Routers/Deco_M9_Plus | Additional TP-Link Deco Support]] </p> </small>
| style="width: 300px;padding:5px;" | <small> The Netgear Orbi creates a in-home network covering 5,000+ square feet. Orbi helps create a single stream less network allowing you to move room to room with out losing your connection. You are also able to work with Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant to control your smart home devices. <p>* [https://www.netgear.com/images/datasheet/orbi/RBK50v2.pdf Product Specifications] </p> <p>* [http://www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/RBK50/Orbi_UM_EN.pdf User Guide] </p> <p>* Router Interface Netgear Orbi App </p>  </small>
|}
|}


== Routers on a budget ==
We know that you may not be able to afford the best router out there. So we chose a few that will work when you are in a pinch.
{|
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:Archer BE230 US 1.0 01 normal 20231212120701e.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Dual-Band-Archer-BE230-HomeShield/dp/B0DC99N2T8 TP-Link BE230] '''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' TP-Link
<br>'''Model:''' BE230 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router
<br>'''Ports:''' 2.5 Gig WAN / 1 LAN 2.5 Gigabit / 3 LAN gigabit
<br>'''Price:''' $119.99- Amazon
<br>'''[https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230/#specifications Product Specifications]'''
<br>'''[https://static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2025/202508/20250815/1910013637_Archer%20BE230&BE3600_UG_REV1.0.0.pdf User Guide]'''
|}
<br><br>
{|
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:Overview-01 normal 20220620082738b.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Archer-AXE7800-Tri-Band-Router/dp/B0BXRVS1FB TP-Link Archer AXE95] '''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' TP-Link
<br>'''Model:''' AXE7800 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6E Router
<br>'''Ports:''' 2.5 Gig WAN/LAN Port / 1 Gig WAN/LAN Port / 3 LAN gigabit / USB 3.0
<br>'''Price:''' $129.99 - Amazon
<br>'''[https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-axe95/#specifications Product Specifications]'''
<br>'''[https://static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2024/202410/20241030/1910013093_Archer%20AXE95_UG_REV1.0.0.pdf User Guide]'''
|}
<hr>
* Model numbers may vary depending on the most recent revision from the manufacturer and may have different firmware versions.
== Switches ==
{|
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:NetgearSwitch .jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://amzn.to/4biGt5n NETGEAR 5 Port MultiGig Switch] '''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' NETGEAR
<br>'''Model:''' MS305
<br>'''WiFi:'''  None
<br>'''Antennas:''' 0
<br>'''Ports:''' 5 x 1G/2.5G Multi-Gig Ethernet ports.
<br>'''Price:''' $99.99 - Amazon
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:71XpvleAJcL._AC_SL1500_.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XWKF55C?ref=cm_sw_r_cso_cp_apin_dp_JQQFNNXENA36AW11DDFP&ref_=cm_sw_r_cso_cp_apin_dp_JQQFNNXENA36AW11DDFP&social_share=cm_sw_r_cso_cp_apin_dp_JQQFNNXENA36AW11DDFP&peakEvent=5&starsLeft=1&skipTwisterOG=1&th=1/TRENDnet 8-Port Unmanaged 2.5G Switch] '''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' TRENDnet
<br>'''Model:''' TEG-S380
<br>'''WiFi:'''  None
<br>'''Antennas:''' 0
<br>'''Ports:''' 8 x 2.5GBASE-T Ports.
<br>'''Price:''' $99.99 - Amazon
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:center;vertical-align:top;" | [[File:71kzpoCw+lL._AC_SL1500_.jpg|200px]]
| style="width: 375px;padding:5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;" | '''[https://www.amazon.com/Real-HD-2-5G-Unmanaged-10-100-1000Mbps/dp/B0C27DC6XJ/ref=sr_1_10?crid=YOR9EX8FD5CD&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.7C-gtrWDoNCrwvEUYJCvVfTp5Mm_c5HKNskNzm8wHjtFH1OsvXvN4NxFLRTSsszMgJFcZWwpqVcZji5z4NGQ9xUHJJWIksTwzRrnPn2s0t4ykr2Hr2IZJPhYfDMlGyvmV16CeYQV1ZezXsK5_G37BH2Xh24WWRkD2m_jFInm5tN4rG1zBwgjw_2cJJJuVIN5VSnVW4WxEXMheBzOcFI6t6w8ABp2r4fgtwInaZ-Wt8M.yFl01R6sKfxL6TxjFljglvZSdXmKCog5YCvj0juHY64&dib_tag=se&keywords=multigig%2Bswitch&qid=1734627448&sprefix=multigig%2Bswitc%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-10&th=1/RealHD 8 port 2.5GB Switch] '''
'''Specifications:'''
<br>'''Brand:''' Real HD
<br>'''Model:''' SW8-25G
<br>'''WiFi:'''  None
<br>'''Antennas:''' 0
<br>'''Ports:''' 8 2.5/ 1 10GB SFP+
<br>'''Price:''' $69.99 - Amazon
|}
For intermediate users, or those who would like to take advantage of the full capabilities of the XMission Network, we recommend Ubiquiti's UniFi wireless line: a proprietary mesh-like network environment, commonly used in enterprise-level deployments. XMission's office and some staffers use Ubiquiti for wireless access points.
== Placement of your router ==
The placement of your router is very important. Your wireless signal will need to travel from your router to where you are in your home. Putting your router in a utility closet is probably not the best choice if your utility closet is in your basement and you spend all day upstairs. You may want to reconsider a more central location for your router. Materials such as concrete, metal, brick, and sheetrock—in other words, the materials your walls are made from—can and will impact the strength of your wireless signal.
== Router Issues ==
If you continue to have issues with your current router, it may be time to upgrade. If you do not see improved performance after talking with our support department and walking you through factory resetting your router and updating the firmware, it may be time to get a new router. You can visit our [[Router and Wireless Troubleshooting]] guide to help you further.


[[Category: Troubleshooting]]
[[Category: Troubleshooting]]
[[Category: UTOPIA]]
[[Category: XMission Fiber]]
[[Category: UTOPIA Troubleshooting‏‎]]

Latest revision as of 15:51, 22 January 2026

Recommended Routers

When it comes to your connection, your router is one of the most important devices you can add to your home network. We know that routers are not cheap, however in order to meet the demand of your daily wifi needs, you may need to invest a little more money in a router that will cover your entire home with little dead spots.

Keep in mind that while any gigabit router is compatible, XMission recommends the following products based on feedback from our staff and customers. The products below are not required for service. You should choose a router that fits your budget.

  • Please remember XMission cannot guarantee advertised speeds over a wireless connection. When available we recommend the use of Ethernet cables.

XWi Home

The XWi Home is our recommended router setup.

1G Router

  • This router may be supplied to XMission customers. Contact Support for more details.
GS4220E


Specifications:
Brand: XMission / Calix
Model: GS4220E Specifications:

2G/2.5G/10G Router

GS5229E

Specifications:
Brand: XMission / Calix
Model: GS5229E
Specifications:

Multi-Gig Routers

ASUS RT-BE96U:

Specifications:
Brand: ASUS
Model: RT-BE96U Tri-band WiFi 7 Router
Ports: 2 WAN / 1 Multi-Gig WAN / 4 LAN gigabit / 1 Multi-Gig LAN / 1 USB 3.0 / 1 USB 2.0
Price: $524.99 - Amazon
Product Specification
User Guide



TP-Link Archer GE650

Specifications:
Brand: TP-Link
Model: GE650 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Gaming Router
Ports: 1 Multi-Gig WAN / 4 LAN on router /
Price: $249.99 - Amazon
Product Specification
User Guide



Gigabit Routers





Linksys Velop Mesh

Specifications:
Brand: Linksys
Model: Velop AX4000 Tri Band Mesh
Ports: 1 Gig WAN / 3 LAN gigabit / USB 3.0 per unit
Price: $349.99- Amazon 2-pack
Product Specifications
User Guide



NETGEAR Nighthawk AX5400

Specifications:
Brand: NETGEAR
Model: Nighthawk Pro AX5400
Ports: 1 Gig WAN / 4 LAN gigabit / USB 3.0
Price: $299.99- Amazon
Product Specifications
User Guide



ASUS ROG Rapture AX11000

Specifications:
Brand: ASUS
Model: ROG Rapture WiFi 6 Gaming Router
Ports: 1 Gig WAN / 2.5 Gig LAN / 4 LAN gigabit / USB 3.0
Price: $349.99- Amazon
Product Specifications
User Guide

EdgeRouter X

Specifications:
Brand: Ubiquiti Networks
Model: ER-X
Ports: 5 Gb ports / 1 data/PoE input port, 3 data ports, 1 data/PoE passthrough port.
Price: $129.99 - Amazon
Product Specifications
User Guide



EdgeRouter 10X

Specifications:
Brand: Ubiquiti Networks
Model: ER-10X
Ports: 1 RJ45 Serial Port / 10 Ethernet Ports / Port 0 Supports PoE in / Port 9 Supports PoE out
Price: $129.99 - Amazon
Product Specifications
User Guide

Routers on a budget

We know that you may not be able to afford the best router out there. So we chose a few that will work when you are in a pinch.

TP-Link BE230

Specifications:
Brand: TP-Link
Model: BE230 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router
Ports: 2.5 Gig WAN / 1 LAN 2.5 Gigabit / 3 LAN gigabit
Price: $119.99- Amazon
Product Specifications
User Guide



TP-Link Archer AXE95

Specifications:
Brand: TP-Link
Model: AXE7800 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6E Router
Ports: 2.5 Gig WAN/LAN Port / 1 Gig WAN/LAN Port / 3 LAN gigabit / USB 3.0
Price: $129.99 - Amazon
Product Specifications
User Guide



  • Model numbers may vary depending on the most recent revision from the manufacturer and may have different firmware versions.

Switches

NETGEAR 5 Port MultiGig Switch

Specifications:
Brand: NETGEAR
Model: MS305
WiFi: None
Antennas: 0
Ports: 5 x 1G/2.5G Multi-Gig Ethernet ports.
Price: $99.99 - Amazon


8-Port Unmanaged 2.5G Switch

Specifications:
Brand: TRENDnet
Model: TEG-S380
WiFi: None
Antennas: 0
Ports: 8 x 2.5GBASE-T Ports.
Price: $99.99 - Amazon

8 port 2.5GB Switch

Specifications:
Brand: Real HD
Model: SW8-25G
WiFi: None
Antennas: 0
Ports: 8 2.5/ 1 10GB SFP+
Price: $69.99 - Amazon



For intermediate users, or those who would like to take advantage of the full capabilities of the XMission Network, we recommend Ubiquiti's UniFi wireless line: a proprietary mesh-like network environment, commonly used in enterprise-level deployments. XMission's office and some staffers use Ubiquiti for wireless access points.

Placement of your router

The placement of your router is very important. Your wireless signal will need to travel from your router to where you are in your home. Putting your router in a utility closet is probably not the best choice if your utility closet is in your basement and you spend all day upstairs. You may want to reconsider a more central location for your router. Materials such as concrete, metal, brick, and sheetrock—in other words, the materials your walls are made from—can and will impact the strength of your wireless signal.

Router Issues

If you continue to have issues with your current router, it may be time to upgrade. If you do not see improved performance after talking with our support department and walking you through factory resetting your router and updating the firmware, it may be time to get a new router. You can visit our Router and Wireless Troubleshooting guide to help you further.