wireless router

[Anonymous]

I have been having some issues with my internet signal strength, and think that it might be time to replace my 5 year old router. I don't know where to start, and hope somebody can give me some suggestions.

We don't home network, but primarily use our internet connection to stream movies via netflix.

TIA

[Anonymous]

I don't know what service provider you use. Verizon usually provides a wireless router for free.

We now have comcast, and replaced their cable modem (which isn't wireless, and you pay a monthly fee for), with a combo modem/ wireless router. They have a list of approved ones. I can't remember exactly which one we got, but it was one of the few we could find at Best Buy. Believe it's a Motorola SURFBoard.

[Anonymous]

Just look up routers on Amazon.com and get one with good reviews. I have used Linksys for years, but there are plenty of great choices for around $50.00. Most are very easy to set up without any IT experience.

[Anonymous]

Just a thought: make sure it is password protected. Your signal strength might be weak if others are stealing your wireless.

[Anonymous]

What do you have today? Wireless g or n?

What does your computer support, g or n?

[Anonymous]

I have a Mac, and the router (westell) provided by my ISP, Verizon DSL. I'm technically stupid about this type of thing. My router is also my modem. My signal is weak in the room where my TV is, which is leading me to want something that will provide a stronger signal.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I have a Mac, and the router (westell) provided by my ISP, Verizon DSL. I'm technically stupid about this type of thing. My router is also my modem. My signal is weak in the room where my TV is, which is leading me to want something that will provide a stronger signal.

Does your Mac have wireless N? Go into Apple... About this Mac... More Info... and click on Airport It will say Airport Extreme if it is wireless N. I ask because wireless N is faster and has a greater range than wireless G, which is probably what your Westell router supports. If so, you can get a wireless N router. Apple sells a nice but expensive one. You can use non-Apple routers as well.

Before you buy anything, does the Internet stream well when you connect your computer directly to the router via a wired ethernet cable? I would test this first. It is possible that the problem is your internet service, and not the wireless connection.

[Anonymous]

I have an older Mac, so no aiport extreme, just airport. The internet streams well, even wirelessly closer to the actual router. The TV and the Roku box are on the opposite end of our house - one floor down and about 30 feet away from the router. I'm looking for either a router with a stronger signal or for something that can boost my signal downstairs.

Are the apple routers worth the $$$?