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Old 10-19-2016, 01:49 AM
 
977 posts, read 1,111,252 times
Reputation: 1927

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I'm not sure if this is the correct forum to post this, but I'll give it a try.... lately when I turn on my computer it shows that it is not connected to the internet. I have reset the router (a Belkin) several times, and have also unplugged it/plugged it back in. That has taken care of the issues, but I am wondering if my router needs to be replaced. It is at least 7 years old (I bought it used) and I have wifi for my computer, my Ooma, and for the Roku player for streaming.

I had to replace my computer a month ago because it got hit by lightening. Could it be a problem with the computer, instead? The computer tech who installed it for me said that being disconnected isn't unusual, but I never had a problem like that with my prior 2 computers. (the one I have now is a used Dell desktop---had to get one in a hurry.)

What type of router would you recommend? I'd like to keep the price under $100. I know so little about computers etc but I do not have much on my hard drive, I don't play games, or do much streaming. I am considering getting a tablet, though, soon. Do you think that getting a new router will help with the connectivity issue? Thanks for your help!
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Old 10-19-2016, 07:08 AM
 
2,336 posts, read 2,584,780 times
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The current routers are vast improvements over 7 year old models, in security, performance, reliability and ease of use. For your basic needs, there are decent models available under $100 (see Best Router 2016 - Get a Better Wi-Fi Signal at Home and The Best Wireless Routers of 2016 | PCMag.com)

If you can step up the budget a little bit, I just bought a new Linksys WRT1900ACS for $125, and I love it!
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Old 10-19-2016, 07:23 AM
 
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
16,561 posts, read 19,761,655 times
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It's not only 7 years old, Jonah, it was bought USED 7 years ago. Who knows how old it is.
Yes, I also believe a new one will help.
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Old 10-19-2016, 10:32 AM
 
Location: NJ
4,940 posts, read 12,168,732 times
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Google has a new product coming out that looks interesting:

https://store.google.com/product/google_wifi
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Old 10-19-2016, 12:36 PM
 
Location: USA
718 posts, read 1,151,652 times
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OP - ask your broadband provider for a free modem wifi gigabit router. Comcast and Cablevision/Optimum Online give it to their customers for free.

But, a huge caveat here, so be aware: the providers WiFi Hotspot program, essentially turns residential customers into hotspots for other customers or hotspot subscribers.

Read more here:
Your Home Router May Also Be a Public Hotspot — Don’t Panic!

https://www.techdirt.com/articles/20...bit-hole.shtml
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Old 10-19-2016, 12:39 PM
 
Location: SF Bay Area
13,520 posts, read 22,170,117 times
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Could be any of a myriad of problems: distance from your PC to the router, interference (signal and physical), you might need a firmware update (or just make sure you're running the latest version, which could be several years old given the age of the router).

Best bet is probably to replace it and since you have pretty basic needs and I'm guessing, typical home user speed ... no need to spend lots of money. Something like this will do for $50:

Tenda AC15 AC1900 Smart Dual-Band Gigabit Wireless Router 850180 - Micro Center

It's got decent reviews: Tenda AC1900 Wireless Dual Band Router AC15 Review & Rating | PCMag.com
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Old 10-19-2016, 02:14 PM
 
977 posts, read 1,111,252 times
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Thank you so much for your responses---I'll check these out! (BTW, I my provider is Cox and they even charge for a modem, so don't think they provide a free router, but great suggestion!)
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Old 10-19-2016, 04:21 PM
 
2,336 posts, read 2,584,780 times
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The "free" modem/routers are usually $7-10 per month on your bill. Buying your own will pay for itself in less than a year.
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Old 10-20-2016, 07:39 AM
 
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
16,561 posts, read 19,761,655 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by JonahWicky View Post
The "free" modem/routers are usually $7-10 per month on your bill. Buying your own will pay for itself in less than a year.
Pfft. Or less. Time Warner charges $20/mo for the larger modem!!
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