Need a new stable router. Any recommendations?

[charlieharper]

So a while back I bought an ASUS DSL-N14U. Had a terrible experience with it - had it running for about 3 weeks - first fighting with Telkom/Vox till we realised the problem is with the router and not the line.
Keeps on dropping sync + didn't sync at 10mbps like my other routers.
I'm currently on my half broken Billion router (ports are a bit buggered) - it's stable and syncs at full 10mbps. Took back the router to Makro and they have me my R900 refund voucher.

I'm on the South Coast of KZN, so I understand we don't have the best maintained copper lines combined with the humidity and stuff, but of course if one router can handle it surely others can too - obviously it was too tough for the Asus one. Also, I'm relatively far from the exchange.

So yeah, now before I just jump in and buy a new one, I'd love some recommendations. I don't have to buy the router at Makro, and I'm willing to add another 200-300zar for a very good one.

Thanks in advance.

 

[I O U]

You can spend a lot less for a stable combo modem/router.

I haven't personally used these, but they are highly regarded :

TP-LINK W8960N Wireless N ADSL2+ Modem Router.
https://shop.dbg.co.za/td-w8960n.html

They are R450 + VAT + delivery charge - MyBB discount (should still be available @ 10%) from Uniterm Direct (ie. dbg.co.za)

Otherwise, one that I know from personal use is definitely stable is the D-Link 2740u.

D-Link DSL-2740U Wireless N300 ADSL2+ 4-Port LAN & Wi-Fi Router
Product ID: 17866
http://www.wootware.co.za/dsl-2740u-wireless-n300-adsl2-4-port-lan-wi-fi-router.html

Arguably better wi-fi than the TP-Link, as I've had a TP-Link router only in the past, and this seems to cover a wider area, better. Also, I know you can easily put it into bridge mode, and have multiple connections on the PC to dial-up from, not only in Windows but also in Linux (Ubuntu based distros), which is trickier to setup, but still do-able. Can help you through that process if necessary with the various commands.

The TP-Link I think has bridge mode from the specs looked at previously, but don't know if as versatile as the D-Link.

 

[I O U]

Took back the router to Makro and they have me my R900 refund voucher.

Makro's standard thing is to give vouchers for stock returns, but I think you can still go back to them & get them to exchange it for R900 in cash - suggest phoning before going.

Then, if you were to buy from Wootware, I know that you can pay them at for eg. ABSA bank, the exact cash amount of the whatever you buy, and there are no extra deposit fees charged to you (for depositing cash, instead of doing a transfer). I bought something last year that way (think an SSD?), from them.

 

[charlieharper]

Thanks will have a look. Also, I'm not too worried about wifi, as I do have wifi routers throughout the house. Just need to have at least 3 ethernet ports. Additionally most of the devices at home are running MacOS or Linux. Couple of Android + iPhones as well as an LG Smart TV. Occasionally a PS3.

 

[MickZA]

I'd say go with a Telkom router just so the techs can't use it as an excuse but that doesn't mean they'll sort out your 10Mbps sync problems ...

 

[RoganDawes]

Best option is to get a decent "WAN" router (i.e. ethernet WAN port) and a standalone DSL modem, if you want to be future proof.

e.g. something like a DLink 2500U (if you can still get them, they are rock solid) + whatever router you want. dlink in bridge mode, then the WAN router establishes PPPoE, the dlink is effectively invisible. (Only downside is trying to monitor the ADSL line stats, if your WAN router cannot allow direct access to the dlink)

Personally, I'm going with a simple WAN router running OpenWRT, with the wireless stuff disabled, talking to the fibre CPE. I have a separate Unifi providing wifi throughout the house.

In fact, if anyone wants my "stock" of 2500U's, I have two available. PM me if interested.

 

[stroebs]

Best option is to get a decent "WAN" router (i.e. ethernet WAN port) and a standalone DSL modem, if you want to be future proof.

e.g. something like a DLink 2500U (if you can still get them, they are rock solid) + whatever router you want. dlink in bridge mode, then the WAN router establishes PPPoE, the dlink is effectively invisible. (Only downside is trying to monitor the ADSL line stats, if your WAN router cannot allow direct access to the dlink)

Personally, I'm going with a simple WAN router running OpenWRT, with the wireless stuff disabled, talking to the fibre CPE. I have a separate Unifi providing wifi throughout the house.

In fact, if anyone wants my "stock" of 2500U's, I have two available. PM me if interested.

+1. Failing this, the DSL-2750u has been excellent in my experience, for those with a budget constraint of having two/more devices.