Wireless Network Optimization

By Calvin Croucher

This is a story that may sound familiar to some of you and your own home wireless network.

Recently, I was contacted by a homeowner who expressed concern that his wireless network wasn’t working correctly. He said, “My internet seems to cut on and off”. The homeowner scheduled an assessment. I asked, “What speed are you paying for?” He answered, “150Mbps”. First, I rebooted the modem-router, aka the Gateway. Then, I checked that the router's firmware version was current. Next, I measured the speed in megabits/second and signal quality in milliseconds by connecting directly to one of the available Ethernet ports. Results were well above the subscribed service level. Now here is where things got interesting. I measured the wireless bandwidth and signal strength at key locations throughout the house. The speed test results were “very disappointing”. None of the measurements were within ¼ of the rated speed! That means for a service that might be costing $90/month the homeowner was only receiving service that should have cost him $25/month!

So now what? Well, since the router was over 5 years old and runs on wireless N technology the recommendation was clear. Time to upgrade. But to what? There are generally two options. A Gateway, which is a device that contains a modem and a router or a modem along with a multi-node WiFi-6 mesh network. Generally, the cost is very similar so the clear choice, especially for multiple floor living, is to implement a mesh network. A Mesh network provides whole house coverage and can be expanded to three or more nodes as needed. Most mesh networks operate with wireless, beamforming, blended 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz technology. They are good for Gigabit speeds between nodes that can support more than 100 networked devices. An added bonus is that each mesh node generally comes with 2-3 Ethernet ports so TVs and computers can be hard wired to receive very stable signals.

So, after registering a new cable modem with the ISP, providing them with the make, model, serial number and MAC address and configuring a 3-node mesh network strategically placed in the customers house, how do things look? As Captain Kirk likes to say, “Warp Speed Scotty!” All points throughout the house now receive speeds well in excess of 100Mbps. Mission accomplished. No more buffering, no more dropouts.

If you have questions or would like to see if your home network is performing at its best contact me for help.

Campsite.bio/TheCroucherGroup

How to connect a Mesh router to an Optical Network Terminal

By Calvin Croucher

Mesh routers are becoming increasingly popular among Colonial Heritage homeowners. Why? Because they offer a way to extend strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout a larger space or multiple floors without sacrificing speed or reliability. However, setting up a mesh router can sometimes be tricky, especially if you need to connect it to an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) that provides internet access through a fiber-optic network. Verizon FiOS has always used fiber and Cox is now rapidly expanding their own fiber throughout Colonial Heritage. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to connect a mesh router to an ONT and get your Wi-Fi network up and running in no time.

Step 1: Gather your equipment

Before you start connecting your mesh router to the ONT, you will need to gather the necessary equipment. This will typically include the mesh router itself, an Ethernet cable, and the power supplies for the mesh router and each mesh node. You may also need a device such as a laptop or smartphone to configure the mesh router's settings, depending on the specific model.

Step 2: Locate the ONT

The ONT is typically located on the utility side of your home, within the home smart panel or in your garage, and is usually installed by your internet service provider (ISP). The ONT is the device that receives the fiber-optic cable from the outside and converts it into a signal that can be used by your router and other devices in your home.

Step 3: Connect the mesh router to the ONT

To connect the mesh router to the ONT, you will need to use an Ethernet cable. Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the WAN (Wide Area Network) port on the mesh router, and the other end directly to the LAN (Local Area Network) port on the ONT. Make sure the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both devices. Yes, you read this correctly, you do not need to rent a Gateway from Verizon or Cox if you have an ONT and plan to use a Mesh router!

Step 4: Power on the mesh router

After connecting the mesh router to the ONT, you can now plug in the power supply for the mesh router and turn it on. The mesh router should start up and begin broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal. If you have a smartphone or laptop handy, you can try connecting to the Wi-Fi network to confirm that it is working properly.

Step 5: Configure the mesh router settings

Once the mesh router is connected to the ONT and powered on, you should configure its settings to ensure that it is working optimally. This may include setting up the Wi-Fi network name and password, configuring parental controls, or adjusting other settings such as a recommended weekly automatic reboot schedule. Consult the user manual for your specific mesh router model for instructions on how to access and configure its settings either directly through the router's IP address or through the router manufacturers provide mobile app.

In conclusion, connecting a mesh router to an ONT is a relatively straightforward process that can greatly improve your Wi-Fi coverage and performance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to connect your mesh router to the ISPs ONT and get your Wi-Fi network up and running in no time. If you encounter any issues or have questions, don't hesitate to contact your ISP, the manufacturer of your mesh router or as always, The Croucher Group is happy to help.

Internet Gateway vs 3-Node Mesh Home Network

By Calvin Croucher

The internet has become an essential part of modern life, and with the increasing number of connected devices in homes, having a reliable and robust wired or wireless home network is more important than ever. When it comes to setting up a home network, two of the most popular options are a traditional internet gateway and a multi-node mesh network. In this article, we will compare these two options and explore the pros and cons of each.

A home internet gateway is a device that connects your home network to the internet. It is typically provided by your internet service provider (ISP) and is responsible for routing traffic between your home network and the internet. Most gateways are simple, single-unit devices that include a modem, router, and sometimes a switch. They are easy to set up and require minimal configuration, making them a popular choice for home users who want a hassle-free network setup.

On the other hand, a mesh network is a bit more complex and sophisticated solution that provides better coverage and performance. A mesh network consists of a series of devices, or nodes, that are strategically placed throughout your home. These nodes communicate with each other wirelessly, creating a seamless network that covers your entire home. Mesh networks are designed to be easy to set up and manage, with most systems offering mobile apps that allow you to monitor and control your network from your smartphone. Mesh networks often combine band steering which manages the blended use of 2.4 and 5Ghz with the faster 5Ghz always given priority and beam forming which shapes or focuses a wireless signal to a particular client connection.

One of the biggest advantages of a mesh network is its ability to provide better coverage and performance than a traditional gateway. A mesh network can cover a much larger area and provide better signal strength throughout your home. This is because the nodes communicate with each other, creating a network that is more resilient to interference and able to adapt to changes in your environment. Additionally, mesh networks are able to handle more devices simultaneously, making them ideal for homes with a large number of connected devices.

However, there are also some drawbacks to consider when choosing a mesh network. Firstly, they are more expensive than a traditional Gateway, as you need to purchase multiple nodes to cover your home. Additionally, they can be more complex to set up and manage, as you need to ensure that the nodes are placed in the optimal locations to provide the best coverage. This may require some trial and error, as well as some technical know-how and use of a signal strength meter.

On the other hand, a traditional gateway is a more straightforward and affordable option for most home users. It is easy to set up and requires minimal configuration, making it a popular choice for those who are not technically inclined. However, it may not provide the same level of coverage and performance as a mesh network, especially in larger homes or those with lots of interference.

In conclusion, both a traditional internet Gateway and a Mesh network have their pros and cons, and the best option for your home will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you have a larger home or a lot of connected devices, a mesh network may be the better option as it will provide better coverage and performance. However, if you have a smaller home or a limited budget, a traditional gateway may be the more practical option. Whatever you choose, it is important to ensure that your home network is secure and well-managed to ensure that you get the most out of your internet connection.

For more help contact the Colonial Heritage Tech Club.

How to Choose your Next Computer?

By Cal Croucher

Choosing the right personal computer can be overwhelming, as there are a variety of options available in the market. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your next personal computer:

Purpose: Determine the primary purpose of your computer. Will you use it for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and document editing, or for more demanding tasks such as video editing or online gaming?

Operating System: Choose an operating system that best suits your needs. Windows is by far the most widely used operating system, while MacOS is popular among graphic artists. Chrome OS is the clear winner for lightweight instant on browser based computing.

Processor: The processor is the brain of the computer. For Windows and Mac look for a processor that is fast and powerful, such as an Intel Core i5 or i7 or an AMD Ryzen 5 or 7. For Chrome OS an Intel i3 or i5 is more than sufficient.

RAM: Random Access Memory (RAM) is essential for multitasking and running programs smoothly. Again for Windows and Mac aim for at least 8Gb of RAM, and consider 16Gb or more if you plan on running demanding programs. For Chrome OS 4Gb of RAM is sufficient.

Storage: Decide whether you need a traditional (spinning) hard disk drive, solid-state drive (SSD) or electronic multimedia card (eMMC). SSDs are faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives but are more expensive. eMMC is generally less expensive than SSDs, due to its lower performance and capacity.

Graphics: If you plan on using your computer for gaming or graphic design, consider a computer with a dedicated graphics card.

Keyboard: Nearly all keyboards are “chiclet” style. The only real choice is whether to get a backlit keypad or not. I personally always opt for a backlit keypad so I am able to work in a dimly lit or dark room.

Display: Choose a display that suits your needs. A larger screen is beneficial for multitasking and productivity, while a smaller screen may be more portable. Also, some laptops are available as 2 in 1 which function as a traditional laptop or by flipping the screen and keyboard it converts into a touch screen tablet.

Budget: Determine your budget and look for a computer that meets your needs.

Brand and Warranty: Consider purchasing from a reputable brand with good customer support and a warranty. Extended warranties are generally not necessary.

By considering these factors, you can select a personal computer that meets your needs and fits within your budget.

Contact the Tech Club if you’d like help.

What are the Advantages of Mobile Home Internet over Cable Internet?

by Calvin Croucher

In recent years, the increasing popularity of mobile (cellular) home internet has sparked a debate over whether it's superior to traditional cable internet. Mobile home internet refers to a wireless broadband connection that uses cellular networks, while cable internet is delivered through a physical cable. 

Flexibility and Portability

One of the biggest advantages of mobile home internet is its flexibility and portability. Unlike cable internet, which is fixed to a specific location, mobile home internet allows you to connect to the internet from anywhere as long as there's a cellular network available. This means you can take your internet with you when you travel, go camping, or even move to a new home without having to worry about changing your internet service provider.

Easy Setup

Setting up mobile home internet is relatively simple compared to cable internet. With mobile home internet, all you need to do is plug in a device such as a modem and router, which is known as a Gateway and connect it to the nearest cellular network. There's no need for complicated wiring or professional installation, which can save you time and money. Frequently, in order to locate the Gateway in the best reception area adding a mesh network is recommended.

Faster Speeds

Mobile home internet technology has come a long way in recent years, and it now offers faster speeds than ever before. In some cases, mobile home internet can even outpace cable internet in terms of speed. This is particularly true in areas where cable internet infrastructure is outdated or overburdened. It is unquestionably faster for areas where DSL service is all that had been available. With mobile home internet, you can enjoy faster speeds without having to worry about the limitations of traditional cable internet.

Lower Costs

Mobile home internet plans are typically more affordable than cable internet plans. This is because mobile home internet providers don't have to invest in physical infrastructure, such as cables and wiring. As a result, they can offer their services at a lower cost. This can be particularly beneficial for people who are on a tight budget or don't want to pay for expensive cable internet plans.

No Data Caps

Many cable internet providers enforce data caps, which limit the amount of data you can use each month. This can be frustrating for people who use the internet frequently, such as gamers or people who work from home. Mobile home internet providers, on the other hand, typically don't enforce data caps. This means you can use the internet as much as you want without having to worry about extra fees or reduced speeds.

What are the downsides of mobile home internet? 

While mobile home internet has several advantages over cable internet, there are also some downsides to consider. Here are a few of the main ones:

Coverage Limitations

Mobile home internet relies on cellular networks, and the quality of the service can vary depending on where you're located. If you live in a rural area, for example, you may not be able to get a strong signal or any signal at all. This can be a significant limitation for people who rely on the internet for work or other essential tasks.

Network Congestion

Another potential downside of mobile home internet is network congestion. Because the service is delivered over cellular networks, the speed and quality of the connection can be affected by the number of people using the network in your area. During peak usage times, such as evenings or weekends, you may experience slower speeds or difficulty connecting to the internet.

Data Throttling

While mobile home internet typically doesn't enforce data caps, some providers may engage in data throttling. This means that after you've used a certain amount of data, your internet speed may be slowed down. This can be frustrating if you need to use the internet for streaming or other high-bandwidth activities.

Security Concerns

Because mobile home internet is wireless, it can be vulnerable to security breaches. Hackers may be able to access your internet connection and steal your personal information or infect your devices with malware. It's important to take steps to secure your connection, such as using a strong password and installing anti-virus software.

In conclusion, mobile home internet offers several advantages over cable internet, including flexibility, portability, easy setup, faster speeds, lower costs, and no data caps. While cable internet may still be a good choice for some people, mobile home internet is worth considering for those who value flexibility, affordability, and fast speeds. As technology continues to evolve, it's likely that mobile home internet will become an even more popular option for people who want to stay connected while on the go. Keep in mind that while mobile home internet has several advantages over cable internet, it also has some downsides to consider. Coverage limitations, network congestion, data throttling, device compatibility, and security concerns are all potential issues to keep in mind when choosing a home internet service. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully to determine which one is best for your needs. Most providers like T-Mobile and Verizon offer free trials so what have you got to loose?

The New Improved Gen4 Tablo OTA Tuner / DVR

The newly redesigned Gen4 Tablo device will satisfy all of your Over The Air (OTA) and streaming needs for under $100. It lets you watch live and recorded shows for free, wirelessly, on any TV in your home using an OTA antenna, in beautiful HD quality.

The new Tablo integrates two OTA digital tuners along with a 128Gb DVR which is enough to receive, record and playback 50 hours of antenna based TV. The user interface also includes around 50 streaming channels from Scripps, the company who recently purchased Tablo. 

Tablo sends a wireless signal to smart devices, allowing you to watch and record live TV shows on your smart TVs, phones and/or tablets anywhere in your home. The DVR is able to record approximately 50 hours of content with its onboard storage. But by adding an external DVR of up to 8Tb, you can record over 1000 hours or content. 

Tablo is also able to receive/record 50+ streaming channels via an integrated live channel guide. The two tuners allow the system to view or record two channels simultaneously on multiple TVs from several interfaces including Roku, Fire, Google and others. The device is now subscription free and also provides a free seven day 24 hour channel guide. A four tuner version is expected to be available in the future. The Tablo user interface is conveniently organized with a recordings library: a home screen which helps display content such as shows, movies, news and sports.

As with all OTA tuners, it’s recommended to run a channel scan quarterly. Tablo has this process down to a science with a simple, intuitive tuner interface that allows you to scan, select and deselect OTA and streaming channels directly from within the TV app. All TVs in the home then receive the same picture perfect HD signal.

You most likely won’t need them, but Tablo customer support is very good and you can actually speak to a real person! 

The competition: Sling’s AirTV is the most significant competition. Similar to Tablo, the AirTV has both a two and four tuner model with either built in or external DVR options up to 8Tb. Sling integrates OTA, streaming and on-demand TV, movies, news and sports.

The bottom line: Is the new gen4 Tablo a good buy? In my opinion, yes it seems to be a good OTA digital tuner and recorder that also integrates popular streaming content.