Hi /r/HomeNetworking,

I currently have a 1,200Mbs plan (via Comcast) and I’m wanting to upgrade my equipment to accommodate 2.5Gbs speeds.

Existing Setup:

I have a 1Gb Motorola modem and three TP-Link Deco x20’s [wired backhaul]. I get 900+ DL / 40+ UL [wired], and average 400 DL / 20 UL [wireless]

What I am considering

  1. A 2.5Gbs modem (Motorola makes one, and also the Arris S33)

  2. A TP-Link Deco x55 Pro (has two 2.5 ports, so one from modem and the other for wired backhaul)

  3. Two TP-Link Deco XE75 Pro’s (each has a single 2.5 port), connected via a wired backhaul

  4. A 10G switch {Modem > Router > Switch > Each Deco unit}

Reasoning:

I’ve been using TP-Link products for a while and I like their Deco mesh systems. The most complex networking configs I would need would be simple port forwarding, channel adjustments, and so forth. While I will happily accept having a setup which allows for more networking monitoring and tinkering, I simply don’t think I’ll need it.

What I use my network for:

  1. Homelab stuff, like running my own NAS for backups, a Jellyfin server, etc.

  2. Occasional gaming, but mostly streaming content from my server

  3. The great majority of devices are wired (Cat6), with the exception of phones and laptops.

Conclusion:

Is my proposal viable? Am I missing something here? Is there a better option available? I’ve seen TP-Link’s EAP-series access points and Omada setups - is it worth it given what I need my network for? I suppose I would be ‘future proofing’ myself, if I wanted to learn more and do more - but I just don’t see that happening anytime soon.

Thank you all for your time!

  • Weasel1088@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    Your proposed setup should work fine. I have a similar setup though I use a dedicated pfsense router. As for the use of a 10g switch I think you just need to make sure it can negotiate 2.5gig. Otherwise just make sure you put the main deco in front of your switch then you can wired back haul the other deco units to the switch, same as you have it shown in your post. The other main thing you might consider is if you are in a mid split upgrade area for Comcast. The s33 does not support the higher upload speeds yet for Comcast. Check out their approved mid split modem list if you want something that will support the 200mbps upload.

  • Mission_Extreme_6448@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    I would recommend against a 2.5Gb setup.

    I personally did go for a 2.5Gb setup and speeds in my neighbourhood have since increased to 4Gb and now 6Gb symmetrical. I had to replace the 2.5Gb switches and router with 10Gb ones only about 14 months later.