Seeking Expert Advice to Optimize a High-Demand Home Network - eviltoast

Greetings, fellow tech enthusiasts,

I’m reaching out to this knowledgeable community for guidance on enhancing my home network’s performance and efficiency. Despite having a robust internet plan, I’m encountering suboptimal performance on specific devices, and I’m keen on maximizing the utilization of my internet resources, considering the plethora of devices connected. Current Setup:

Internet Plan: Spectrum 1 Gbps

Devices: 2 Desktop PCs 1 Tablet 3 Laptops 1 Xbox Console 1 Steam Deck 2 Smartphones

All these devices currently connect wirelessly. However, I’m contemplating a strategic shift towards a wired connection for certain devices, specifically the Xbox and the two PCs, to leverage the stability and speed of Ethernet.

Context:

Both my wife and I are remote professionals, operating from separate home offices.

The array of devices in use is indicative of both our professional and personal (gaming and streaming) requirements. Objective:

  1. I’m seeking recommendations on hardware and network configuration strategies to: Enhance Wireless Efficiency: Suggestions for advanced Wi-Fi routers or mesh systems that can handle multiple high-bandwidth devices simultaneously without compromising on speed or stability.

  2. Wired Networking Solutions: Advice on the best approach to hardwire specific devices (2 PCs and Xbox). This includes suggestions on Ethernet cabling, network switches, and any potential modifications to the current layout to facilitate this transition.

  3. Overall Network Optimization: Tips on network segmentation (like VLANs), QoS settings, and any other advanced configurations that could help in managing bandwidth and prioritizing traffic effectively, especially given the diversity of usage (work, gaming, streaming).

Budget is not a primary constraint. I am more focused on achieving a seamless, efficient, and robust home network setup. I am open to purchasing new equipment or making necessary upgrades to my current setup. I appreciate any insights, experiences, or recommendations you could share. Your expertise in helping me streamline and elevate my home network setup would be immensely valuable.

Thank you in advance!

  • Beneficial_Tap_6359@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    Minimizing the wireless would be my first step. Especially in an Apartment. Ideal would be a single wireless access point. No mesh, no repeaters, no other APs. One single WAP. If that one’s wireless coverage doesn’t reach everywhere as needed, then try moving it before adding another AP.
    Anything you can cable instead of wireless will help too, even if its just one or two items.

    Beyond that you’ll have to detail the issues you’re having so we can help you isolate any problem areas.

    Overall you’ve described a very simple home network that should not require any fancy gear or config at all, no streamlining or need to “elevate your home network” IMO.