I'm trying to sort out the best solution to a change that Comcast, my Business internet provider is sort of forcing on me.
There are a couple of things coming together to push the issue. One is that my current "Business Class" router, a SMC 8014WG is apparently EoL as it is only compliant with DOCSIS 2.0 and the current and only supported standard (as you might know) is 3.0 now. And, it looks like it is starting to act up. I have had to power it down a couple of times a day over the course of the last few days, and that is causing a LOT of other issues on my network.
The second thing is that they recently upped the rental charge for the modem and router enough so that it's likely that I could recoup the cost of any (reasonable) hardware purchase within a year.
One other wrinkle is that I heard a 'rumor' that any business class account with static IP addresses (which I have) could not own their own hardware and had to rent from Comcast (which hardly seems fair.) Any one have any experience with this?
I'd have to decide if I need to keep the static IP address(es) if that's the case.
So, back to the main questions: I absolutely do not want a wireless access point as part of the package. I have wireless that works, is secure and that I control. I don't want the problems associated with Comcast and wireless. It also looks like I'm better off with purchasing separate modem and router devices and not a 'combo'.
With that in mind I have started doing some research and it looks like purchasing a Cable Modem such as the SB6183 is the way to go. As far as a router, the Cisco RV180 looks like the sweet spot for me.
I'm not afraid to get in and learn and manage my own configuration(s). I've been my own IT person for the office for years and while I'm far from an expert, I know how to read, research, and ask questions. I have a pretty regular network with the usual PCs, a couple of file servers, an application server, NASes, and the usual consumer electronics on the network. I also have some wireless access points with custom firmware and some other little doo-dads.
First question is does anyone have any advice or experience that might suggest that the opposite of my plan (my plan being separate modem and router) is the better choice?
Second question: Any experience with the SB6183 that suggests it's not awesome? Any other business class, DOCSIS 3.0 modem people would strongly recommend?
Third question: Any 'wired only' routers that people rave about? Any bad stories about the Cisco RV180? Other suggestions?
Lastly, any other thoughts or comments on my plan?
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