RBK50 - Downloading large files slowing down entire network - QoS/SQM?

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zmon wrote:

I've got an RBK50 system that I've been noticing will slow down my entire network when one computer is downloading a large file/game/whatever. I recently moved from cable (50/5) to fiber (250/250) and the problem has continued across the change. I know Netgear has a hidden QoS menu, but as far as I know, it doesn't work. WMM is on at the very least. Bufferbloat gives me a B test rating.

Not sure if there is any other setting I can change to fix this, other than buying a new mesh system. 

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Thanks for posting about this issue.  In my four years with Orbi, I have yet to notice anything along this line.  My guess is that our internet usage is too low for the problem to manifest.

There is no setting for Smart Queue Management (SQM) on the Orbi. There appear to be built-in settings for QoS (The configuration contains a bunch of lines with "QoS" in the parameter file with titles describing different ports.) There is no user ability to display or modify these settings. And there also appears to be no concept of restricting certain devices by bandwidth. My Spectrum Cable Bufferbloat rating of F pales in comparison with your B.  But then, I have 220 down and 11 up.

Unless someone has published Bufferbloat reports on different WiFi routers, it seems to be a bit of a crapshoot trying to find a mesh router system that has SQM.  Bufferbload claims that the Nighthawk XR1000 Gaming Router works, but the Product Data Sheet for it does not mention the specific term "SQM". https://www.netgear.com/images/datasheet/networking/wifirouter/XR1000.pdf   The User Manual shows how to enable QoS settings in various ways.

So, if SQM equates to QoS settings, my guess is that reading User Manuals closely is the only way to find a product that meets your needs. It will not be any of the Orbi models.