Escaping ISP Provided Modem/Router, Need Help!

[aero36]

Hey everyone! Recently I got rental Modem/Router combo #2 from my ISP (RCN) and while it is more reliable than #1, it is way slower (showed like 800mbps on my desktop when the tech was here, he leaves, and it drops to 30 mbps), so I am breaking off from rental.

 

Now my situation is more particular, as I need to run a MOCA to get my desktop hardwired, so I want to make sure this can all be set up as needed. Currently I have two of the following MOCAs, one on the Modem and the other on my desktop:

https://www.amazon.com/Actiontec-Bonded-Ethernet-Adapter-ECB6200K02/dp/B013J7O3X0

 

The modem I am currently looking to purchase is:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I5TJGSE?tag=fd251-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1

I found it on a list of modems compatible with RCN, and was noted as more reliable than #2 on their list.

(List for reference: https://freedom251.com/rcn-modems/)

 

For routers I have roommates though only use WiFi and I’m upstairs from the setup and my consoles rely on them. So the idea is that I get a great router, but not one of those $300+ ones.

A couple routers I have noted:

https://www.amazon.com/Dual-band-Dual-core-AiProtection-Compatible-RT-AC86U/dp/B0752FD3XJ?tag=cnet-buy-button-20&ascsubtag=ag%3Acb718e0a-df9c-4dd1-8818-a7e8b3d9df63|vg%3A5e96be60-889a-11ea-9db3-7bedea1cb3a7|st%3Adtp&th=1

Not sure if this would work, but it’s on sale for $250:

https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Nighthawk-Smart-Router-R9000/dp/B01M12RE4A?SubscriptionId=AKIAJV4KMHBMUG36SMIQ&tag=p00935-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B01M12RE4A&ascsubtag=03Hb9tztFtcopOzu4HtMjNV

 

Is there particular modem and/or router I should look into? Will this all work together? Are there any issues or questions I should ask my ISP (like if something only works in a certain way on my net, similar to how only certain modems work with RCN)? I’m willing to pay a bit extra for future proofing, I want these to last for several years +.

Thank you!

 

Edit: 

 

New current plan: (If anyone see's an issue, please let me know! I don't want to get bogged down by tech issues and poor net reliability!)

Modem - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I5TJGSE?tag=fd251-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1

Router - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HM6KJN8/?tag=lookgadgets02-20&th=1

MOCA (already have) - https://www.amazon.com/Actiontec-Bonded-Ethernet-Adapter-ECB6200K02/dp/B013J7O3X0

Edited April 27, 2020 by aero36
updating

[Guiltyxz]

I have no experience with the ASUS one but a family member has the Netgear Nighthawk and its very fast there across the whole house.

[aero36]

1 hour ago, Guiltyx said:

I have no experience with the ASUS one but a family member has the Netgear Nighthawk and its very fast there across the whole house.

Thank you! Any chance you know a way I can make sure it is compatible with the modem I am considering?

[Guiltyxz]

No way (to my knowledge) to confirm if it works besides asking Netgear support but they should do

[Lurick]

Don't get the Netgear. Either go with the first one which is an AC router (WiFi 5) or find an AX router (WiFi 6). The Netgear isn't an AX capable router but is using the (now dead) AD technology so it's pointless and a worthless spend for something you'll never be able to use.

[aero36]

16 minutes ago, Lurick said:

Don't get the Netgear. Either go with the first one which is an AC router (WiFi 5) or find an AX router (WiFi 6). The Netgear isn't an AX capable router but is using the (now dead) AD technology so it's pointless and a worthless spend for something you'll never be able to use.

Just avoid the Netgear router or is the Netgear modem fine? Or should I avoid Netgear in general?

[Lurick]

50 minutes ago, aero36 said:

Just avoid the Netgear router or is the Netgear modem fine? Or should I avoid Netgear in general?

Just that particular router, Netgear is fine otherwise

[aero36]

1 hour ago, Lurick said:

Just that particular router, Netgear is fine otherwise

Oh awesome, so this for an AX router would be optimal? 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HM6KJN8/?tag=lookgadgets02-20&th=1

[Lurick]

2 minutes ago, aero36 said:

Oh awesome, so this for an AX router would be optimal? 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HM6KJN8/?tag=lookgadgets02-20&th=1

Yah that would be a great choice imo.