I've been having a lot of issues with my ISP's equipment as they've sent technicians multiple times without any real improvement. I'm considering buying my own modem and router, but I'm wondering if that will actually help with my internet issues or if it's just a problem with Mediacom itself. I experience complete internet outages for short periods and significant lag while gaming, even though speed tests show I typically get around 900 mbps down. What should I do?
5 Answers
I made the switch to my own modem and router years ago, mainly because the ISP's equipment couldn't handle my work-from-home VPN requirements. Since then, my connection stability has drastically improved. It's worth considering if your internet usage is critical for you.
I always stick to using the ISP’s modem for the connection, but I don't rely on it for WiFi. I've got a security router that takes care of firewall and VPN needs, and I prefer wired connections everywhere. Trust me, ISP equipment is often lackluster. Plus, by controlling your own network with a firewall, you can manage smart devices and reduce tracking.
Before rushing to buy new equipment, make sure to troubleshoot the situation first. There might be underlying problems with your ISP. Can you describe more about those moments of complete internet loss? When the connection dips, what's happening with your modem and router lights? Are other devices losing connection too? Also, what brand and model are you using?
When the disconnections happen, all three of us gaming in the house are affected. The modem lights blink but don’t fully reset. I know I haven’t upgraded in years, which might be part of the issue.
Going the DIY route with your modem and router can give you more control over your network and improve performance. It’s also true that you’re probably paying a rental fee for the ISP's equipment. However, don't expect a miraculous speed increase—it could be their network causing issues too.
I'm paying $15 a month for the ISP's modem and my speed's fine when it's working, but the dropouts are really annoying.
There are a few things to consider. You might save money in the long run by buying your own gear, but some ISP configurations can be picky with third-party devices. Also, consumer-grade modems can be underwhelming if not ventilated properly. And remember, ISPs often oversubscribe their services, so during peak times, everyone on your line affects latency, not just your speed with download traffic.
So if I buy my own equipment and look into routers that manage traffic, while ensuring they’re compatible with my ISP, that might help? My speed tests seem fine, but I’m not sure about the delivery to my devices.
I just recently switched to using separate modem and router devices, and it made a difference in my setup.