3rd party router to split network bands

[notrhys13]

I was looking to start using a 3rd party router with my Powerhub or replace it completely as I need to be able to split my network bands and the 'smart switching' doesn't seem to work at all.

Is there a tried and tested set up that anyone has used or heard of that I could try? I don't care about WiFi6 or my landline just want to have the ability to manually and permanently split network bands.

[Ripshod · Accepted solution]

Generally, any router that can open a PPPoE session on the WAN port will be fine. Personally I know the Asus RT-BE88U RT-AX88U and GT-AX6000 work fine. TP-Link seem to be a bit fiddly to set up, especially the nest setups. Eero is good too, if you don't mind Google gathering your dates.

All you need is your PPPoE login details from vodafone (given freely). 

[notrhys13]

Cheers for the info, I do have a few more questions.

If using the Asus which is one I've seen suggested before would this be a total replacement or would it need the Hub to be in modem mode or its equivalent?

Is it a plug in and go sort of process or does it require much configuration? (If there is a good guide video that would be a massive help)

Again thanks for the quick reply @Ripshod 

[Ripshod]

If you're not bothered about the landline and you're getting fttp then you can do away with the vodafone altogether. If fttc then you can either keep the vodafone router disabling the wifi and NAT, then plug your own router into that. Another alternative  for fttc would be running a vdsl2 modem along with your own router.

Something I should also mention is that you can get controllable wifi by turning off the wifi on the vodafone router and attaching your own Access Point - so a cheaper alternative. 

[notrhys13]

I think an Access Point might be the right solution, split bands is really the only feature I'm missing and I cant for the life of me understand why they've revoked access to users.

Thanks so much for the info, really appreciate it!