Toxik

Moderator
Contributor
Hey y'all,

I'm moving in with my sister in about a week, and we're trying to get the internet figured out.
I've been looking at router+modem combos on Amazon, kind of like this one.

I also already have a Surfboard modem that I used to use at my apartment, and would only need to get the router, but in the end the price would be very similar to getting one of the combos.

Does anyone have input on whether I should get a router vs getting a new modem+router combo?
Not sure if it affects speed or anything, since I've never owned one of those before.
 

DaivdBaekr

Moderator
Contributor
Keep them separated. Especially if your ISP isn't offering a free combo. You're going to want the upgradability / flexibility of a separate router down the line.
 

KillerZebra

Forum Admin
Contributor
You could just get a combo device and see how you like it. You can turn off the router on most of those and buy your own.

Basically you are trading simplicity and laziness for more control and arguably better performance because of said control
 

Sheev_Palpatine

Legendary Skial King
Contributor
It would really depend on what your ISP will offer you. My old ISP gave us a free combo to use with their service, but with my new ISP they only gave us a modem and nothing else. Combos have been really advancing the last couple of years and have become more affordable, and the one you picked out is good. When I worked in electronics I sold quite a few of those and the feedback from my customers was very positive. Just don't pay a renting fee or whatever for the ISP's modems and routers, that's a load of tripe.
 
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