6 replies to this topic

[JohnT]

Any good recommendations for a combo modem/router? I am going to setup my daughters Sony laptop for WI FI but don't want to buy separate units if it can be avoided. This will be for a Comcast cable setup.

[Berton]

If using two or more Desktops/Notebooks I find it better to first create the Network with a Router then add in the DSL or Cable/Broadband Modem. If one unit dies the other is still usable, Modem attached to one computer or Network access between the computers. Some Modems have the Router function but best to find out from the ISP which is/are preferred as they may not support some makes/models.

[JohnT]

I was reading the info on the Comcast site and they like two units, but that is their way of wanting to lease them for more money. I have Comcast but have my own modem and wi fi router. My daughter is only using a laptop so I am trying to do a simple setup.

[Berton]

If portability would be desirable and since most Notebooks of the last several years include a Wireless adapter, one needs a Wireless Router to interface with the Modem unless the Modem also includes the Router functions. A Notebook-only setup needs to be connected by Ethernet cable first so as to enable setting up the Wireless part including security as it can't be done with a Wireless connection.

[JohnT]

Thanks Berton, I will most likely just get the modem and router separately, that is what Comcast seems to recommend.

[Lewis]

I use my Netgear router for my home network, and I have Comcast. The Comcast tech even hooked it up for me when I returned to Comcast. So it is a good thing that I had my own router.

[JohnT]

Yeah Lewis I got her the same stuff I use, I have a Motorola SB5120 cable modem and a Netgear Router N300 WNR200.