It looks like I have some more options as to how to setup a second router than I previously realized. So I am wondering what people think is the better approach.
First and most important thing to keep in mind is Verizon forces their Actiontec modem/router on people, so that is why I even have to go through all of these hoops. The good news is however I do have a direct Cat 5 connection from the ONT, so I have some options.
Can I use my wireless or an extra router along with the Verizon provided router?
LAN-to-LAN connection between Actiontec and user router. User router becomes a switch. WAN connection and firewall not used in user router. LAN DHCP server should be disabled in the user router.
Avoids double-NATing. Port Forwards are configured in the Actiontec only.
Good choice, if all you need is to connect your 802.11n router as a Wireless Access Point (WAP).
VZ support for Actiontec.
All current STB functionality supported. Guide, VOD, widgets, Remote DVR, On Screen Caller ID.
CON:
Still subject to small NAT table in early (GEN1) Actiontecs. Does not apply to the Westell's larger NAT table.
#2 - Primary LAN-to-WAN
Cat5 from ONT to user router. LAN port on user router to WAN port on Actiontec per FAQ here
PRO:
Easy. FSC can switch WAN connection from coax to cat5 remotely.
NAT limited by primary router, not Actiontec.
VOD, guide data and widgets supported.
CON:
Configuration not supported by VZ. May have to reconnect Actiontec to ONT (via cat5) as primary router for support.
Does not support media sharing on PCs connected to primary router.
Does not support remote access to DVR, on-screen caller id or VZ's CPE management interface (see note #3 above).
I am leaning towards Option #2 as that is clearly the option that gives me the most control, and I am also not sure how much if any advance control I will lose in my new router if it is setup as just a WAP in #1, but as you can see, that also means I lose some functionality that I am paying for, mainly on-screen caller id and even more important, remote access to my DVR. I do not use remote access all that much, but it is nice to have.
So I guess my main question for BudMan, I mean everyone LOL, is what way do they recommend? Is the first option really that much worse?
Keep in mind I do not do all that anything special with my network really. I am not remoting in from outside locations, I do not have any servers to the outside world. I really just need good speeds on my LAN and a reliable Wirless Network at home.
Truly TIA. The router should be there when I get home in about 3 hours, so this is going to be my Friday night project.
Question
So I picked up a new Netgear AC1900 Router as I had some Amazon gift card and it was their daily deal of the day this past Wednesday.
The Nighthawk R7000 to be exact.
It looks like I have some more options as to how to setup a second router than I previously realized. So I am wondering what people think is the better approach.
First and most important thing to keep in mind is Verizon forces their Actiontec modem/router on people, so that is why I even have to go through all of these hoops. The good news is however I do have a direct Cat 5 connection from the ONT, so I have some options.
So these are the 2 different options I have settled on based on all of the various options that can be found here.
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