NETGEAR is aware of a growing number of phone and online scams. To learn how to stay safe click here.

Forum Discussion

DaleE's avatar
DaleE
Aspirant
Aug 10, 2020
Solved

Help with network planning

Hi all,   I’m looking for assistance on replacing my existing wifi setup. I have spent hours reading the Netger site but am unsure which products to use (they all seem so similar!)   The situatio...
  • Mstrbig's avatar
    Aug 10, 2020

    It has been my experience that WIFI mesh systems work way better than routers and extenders and really don't cost much more. So I would go with a wireless mesh system.

    Since you have a ranch style home, I would go with a 3 unit system such as the RBK53 or RBK23, for a more even coverage throughout the home.

    The RBK53 system, (1 router and 2 satellites) is a great system, has wide coverage, is very fasy, because of the enhanced backhaul channel and is Tri-band. But if you are going to wire your satellites to your router, the faster backhaul is a moot point. If you are going to use wired backhaul, take a look at the RBK23, 1 router and 2 satellites). It has great coverage, but not as much as the RBK53, is also very fast, is Tri-band and should fit your needs. I know I'm suggesting a 3 unit system. It is because your other option is 1 at each end of your home, which an RBK50 or RBK20 would work. If placed correctly, you would get good coverage, but not as good as 3 units.

     

    Here is a comparison:

    RBK23 Vs RBK50

    The RBK23 is a more economical model to cover the needs of medium to large sized houses with some reductions in hardware to lower the price.

    The main hardware differences of the RBK23 compared to RBK50 (which is the best selling kit) are the following:

    • Smaller size: (5.6 x 2.4 x 6.6 in)  compared to (6.4 x 3.1 x 8.0 in).
    • Fewer Internal Antennas: The RBK23 has 4 internal antennas compared to 6 antennas of RBK50.
    • Fewer Wired Ethernet Ports: The RBK23 has 2 Ethernet Ports while the RBK50 has 4.
    • Wireless Backhaul speed: The RBK23 has 866Mbps backhaul speed compared to 1733Mbps of the RBK50
    • Less coverage area The RBK23 covers up to 6000 sq ft and is rated at AC2200 compared to the RBK53 7500 Sq Ft at AC3000

    Other than the above hardware differences, the main features of the RBK50 are also supported by RBK23 as well (such as Tri-band WiFi, wireless backhaul on 5Ghz band, beamforming, excellent speed performance and coverage etc).

     

    Regarding WIFI 6, right now there isn't much advantage unless you are going to upgrade all your devices to it. For the long haul, I've found that a newer faster technology will come out just about the time you will want to upgrade. However if money is no object nd you want the latest platform, go with the WIFI 6 system. The RBK753 would work for you.