NetComm NF18ACV Modem/Router Upgrade

ozmoto on 06/04/2023 - 09:26
Last edited 06/04/2023 - 21:26 by 1 other user

Firstly please excuse my lack of knowledge of technical terms. Although I am a long time user of modems (starting with an accoustic coupler) I've lost track of the latest technology and their correct terminology.

I am currently using a Netcomm NF18ACV modem/router for my broadband and wireless network.
The only 'hard wired' device attached to the Netcomm is a Plex server (NAS). All the other connections are wireless.

I am looking to improve the performance of the wi-fi network.

My house is a large. It's a brick and double brick construction although most of the wireless devices are in the same room, or adjacent room, to the Netcomm modem/router.

I would be grateful for suggestions on how to improve my wireless network. I'd prefer not to spend more than $300 or thereabouts.

Thank you.

Computing Broadband FTTN Modem Router nbn NetComm Wireless Router

Comments

  • sane on 06/04/2023 - 09:43
    +1

    That's the same router I have - and yes the Wifi tends to give up once you have more than 10 wifi devices connected.

    My route was to get a cheap Wifi 6 Plus router to act as a daisy chained WiFi access point - positioning it via a cable at a more optimum point, and using its superior Wifi to be the main access point (complete with 4 antennas). Think it cost $89 as an EoL and it is superior in both being able to combine the frequencies to give greater bandwidth AND deal with multiple smart devices properly.

    I'd still go wired if I were in the same room though.

    • ozmoto on 06/04/2023 - 09:59

      Thanks for the advice. Any brand/model advice?
      Unfortunately going wired isn't practical. I thought I might try one of those network plugs that go into power points rather than a wireless connection to my TV but now I access my Plex server via a wireless Amazon Fire stick.

      • sane on 06/04/2023 - 10:12

        Won't recommend powerline type devices, I've had some in the past and they seemed flaky.

        The Wifi 6 router/come access point is Huawei, but as I said, EoL. Doesn't really matter the brand, just that it can saturate the wifi bands and annoy your neighbours without the flakiness of the Netcomm NF18ACV. Also important to have the antenna diversity so you don't get dead spots.

        Only issue I've had since doing mine is a smartbulb half a house away, that's housed in a metal cover and so has occasional issues with dropping out. Much better than it was.

  • Gracey on 06/04/2023 - 09:47
    +1

    Just to confirm, you're on FTTN NBN?

    • ozmoto on 06/04/2023 - 09:50

      I have NBN though Spintel. I don't know what the FTTN bit is.

      • Twix on 06/04/2023 - 10:01
        +1

        Check here. Does it say FTTN, FTTB, FTTC, FTTP, HFC, Fixed Wireless?

      • Gracey on 06/04/2023 - 10:04
        +1

        Fibre to the node, which then uses copper from the node to your house. You can enter your address here to check, but the modem you're using would suggest its FTTN. You need a VDSL modem for FTTN, and there are very few affordable devices that will do VDSL and great wifi.

        Couple of different ways you can go.

        • Put the NF18ACV into bridge mode (disables wifi and acts as a modem only) and get yourself a decent Wifi 6 router This is the way I do it
        • Get a mesh system of some sort, and position those throughout the house to extend the range of the existing Netcomm. Unsure how effective this will be given the Netcomm is already sketchy with wifi. I dont have much experience with mesh systems
        • Twix on 06/04/2023 - 10:11

          The NetComm NF18ACV modem/router doesn't suggest they have FTTN. NF18ACV is compatible with all the different kinds of nbn.

          • Gracey on 06/04/2023 - 10:28
            +1

            @Twix: @Twix Fair. It didnt cross my mind that telco's would supply a VDSL modem to anyone other than FTTN locations. I guess one-size-fits-all is easiest.

            • Twix on 06/04/2023 - 10:30

              @Gracey: Yeah telco's go with the one size fits all. You are right though as they have said it's FTTN.

              • Gracey on 06/04/2023 - 10:33

                @Twix: @ozmoto It might be worth a call to Spintel. Tell them the current modem is dying and hit em up for one of these new models

                • Twix on 06/04/2023 - 10:43

                  @Gracey: I would be bridging the NF18ACV and going with a mesh setup. Maybe the TP-Link Deco X20 2-pack bundle or a pair of Asus RT-AX55.

  • Gojkins on 06/04/2023 - 10:00
    +1

    Have the same modem and a couple of samsung smartthings hubs, does the job well, however I think they are discontinued now.
    1 plugged into router, and the other in a good location to be able to extend the wifi but still be a excellent 5ghz connection.
    I'd say get a mesh wifi system when one is on sale, probably with at least 3 hubs given that your house is large.

  • dazweeja on 06/04/2023 - 10:15
    +2

    You can keep the Netcomm NF18ACV for the modem part, put it into bridge mode, and then add on a mesh network. something like this: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/745793

  • ozmoto on 06/04/2023 - 11:05
    +1

    Thank you everyone for the advice. Very much appreciated.

  • ozmoto on 06/04/2023 - 22:00
    +1

    Just a follow-up:
    My Netcomm died completely so I went out today and bought an Asus DSL-AX82U modem router. Having fun setting it up but I'll get there.

    • humilem servum tuum on 07/04/2023 - 01:45
      +1

      I have the same modem. Setup using app is nice but have found PC interface is better. AiMesh really shines when you have more than one Asus router. Also a good thing about AiMesh is you can use some older mesh capable Asus routers to create the mesh thus saving you bucks from having to purchase new ones.

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