Need a new modem/router

Recently I have been experiencing internet difficulties. Long story short, after a lot of testing, checking, restarting, restoring- I think my router crapped out on me.

My hardware:
ISP: DSL (haha...)
Modem/router: NETGEAR DGN2200

I noticed that it would easily get hot and I had it on pretty much 24/7. I left it in a standing position to save some space, but for future references would it be cooler if it were flat on the desk? Its ironic that this broke on me after a year or so. I am currently using the first modem/router that I received when I switched from dial-up to DSL so many years ago...it still works!

Anyways, I am looking for a replacement, but I am a noob at this. I'm still confused about the configuration between a modem and router (since the thing I got was both). I'm looking for something good and (hopefully) inexpensive.

additional usage info:

• 
  2 lan connections- sis's comp and dad's internet cable box thingy

• usually 2 laptop wireless connections- other sis and I

• couple other peripheral devices (itouches)

• I'm the only one that games and the rest of my family streams dramas and my dad's chinese tv programs.

 

If you think it thermal set it up with a small fan blowing on it. You will know pretty quick. Netgear use to have a problem with their power supplies, but I though they had that cleared up. Make sure your firmware is up to date.

I'm not a fan of combo units (modem/router/AP), they run a lot hotter than split units. I'm still running on a 10yr old 8port VPN router (SMB Class), w/16port GigE switch. I use 2 routes WDNR3700v2 and Actiontec routers as AP's. With the Wireless routers being used as AP they do not heat up handling all of the network traffic. Then if you have a problem all of your marbles are in one bag. Which you have no way of knowing if it's the modem, AP, or router.

I'm surprised the Netgear did not hold up very long. Netgear down not recommend that router if your streaming video. Your load is not uncommon these days. The cable box is constantly steaming video, and your gaming can be a pretty heavy load.

Have you confirmed it's out of warranty? If not go to netgear site and find out if it still is under hardware warranty.

 

I bought it a long time ago from bestbuy so I don't think I have a warranty for it. The old one I'm using now is also a combo unit. I like it because it saves space and reduces wire clutter.

But after this I guess I should buy a separate modem and router. Any recommendations?

 

Do you have specific needs/wants. I'd give inSSIDer a run to check how many wireless networks you have in range of you as well, if there are north of 20APs near you, i'd seriously consider 5GHz.

 

According to inSSIDer there about 6 other wireless networks that are 2.4GHz and 1 at 5GHz. Is that bad? Whats the difference between the two?

I'm looking for something that is sufficient for my needs, preferably under $100 I don't need anything fancy.

 

You have a rather not crowded wireless environment. 5GHz will offer more bandwidth if you want to stream media like high definition content. Otherwise, just find the less crowded channel on 2.4GHz out of 1, 6 and 11 and pick that one for your network.

In the high end, but not too expensive department, i'd recommend the Netgear WNDR3700v2 or Linksys E3000. Both are the previous' generation high end models, but can be found for less than $100 now. I have the E3000 and i only have good things to say about it, most people who own a WNDR3700 would say the same about that model. From what i've heard, the TP-Link TL-WR1043ND is a decently priced unit that performs well as well.

 

I would not buy any router that does not have GigE ports and Dual band like the Netgear WNDR3700v2. It has good firmware too. The last I checked they were just under $100. Then you will have the cost of your modem too. The upside is if you move to a different system your router will still work.

 

Refurbished Linksys E3000 for $60 is a good deal and significantly below $100.
That's a good way out.

Also you don't need to replace your current combo- just bridge it so only modem part of it of working and routing, Wi-Fi and Ethernet is handled by a proper device.

 

Okay what about modems? (sorry I've only had combo units)

 

I suppose you can use your old modem and disable the wireless.

I have no idea if modem have anything to do with stability, whenever mine drops/resets, I blame the ISP.

 

Not just disable wi-fi but bridge it-that can be done but is worth it only if the modem is good.
What modem is it?

 

lol a Westell Versalink ._.

 

I can't find what chipset is it based on but it can be bridged so you can leave it for the time being. If it turns out to be insufficient you'll buy another unit- modems are cheap.

 

Does it matter? Will any cheap modem will do?

 

As long as it stay connected and give you the speed you paid for, I would'nt worry.

 

Thanks for the help guys. I went to best buy and got a netgear modem and Linksys e1550. I managed to set up everything fine, but I wonder why I can't choose the wireless to function at 300 Mbps... there doesn't seem to be a setting for it. I'm only at 144 Mbps.

Edit: The box does say up to 300 Mbps. And what is this WMM and auto 20MHz or 20/40MHz

 

You need 40MHz channel width for that set up on a router (or Auto if 40MHz alone is not available). You need to choose a free channel too- otherwise 802.11n will default back to 20MHz channel width (good-neighbor mode)

 

Yep, and Linksys routers tend to switch back to 20Hz rather easily if you are in a crowded wireless environment.