WiFi access point / router

BlazeStar

Hi guys,

I have a good ol' Airport Extreme that I use to provide WiFi to my network.

It's dying, I need to replace it.

I want recommendations to by a new wifi access point (router, or else).

DHCP, DNS and all is managed by pfSense.

Basically I want a device to plug in my network so I can have WiFi access.

This is mainly for mobile devices (iPhones, etc.) but also sometimes for laptops.

I would like a device that can broadcast 2 SSID so I can have a normal network, ideally with RADIUS authentication, and a captive portal.

Other than web browsing, the WiFi can sometimes be used for file transfers from local servers.

I'm expecting a maximum of 20 users (including the phones etc) and this is for a small office so the range doesn't need to be enormous.

I want something fast, reliable and as cost-effective as possible.

Thanks !

Derelict

I think most will steer you toward Ubiquiti UAP-Pro or UAP-AC.

I, personally, won't even consider an AP that doesn't do simultaneous dual-band and VLAN tagging. dot11ac is less important to me and you pay a premium for it right now.

Nullity

Asus RT-AC66U is a killer router/AP with a few 3rd party firmwares available (ddwrt, tomato, merlin) for like $90.

BlazeStar

This one looks pretty good:
http://www.asus.com/ca-en/Networking/RTAC87U/

Seem to be their flagship for the moment… lot of unwanted features but it seems to be the fastest with best coverage...

No too pricey too from my local supplier...

What do you guys think?

Nullity

Only negatives are that bleeding-edge rarely means stability. Nothing even supports MU-MIMO yet.

The AC68P (same cpu as AC87U, 1Ghz dual) or AC68U (standard CPU, 800Mhz dual) might be better choices.

I have a Asus RT-N66U that I am quite happy with.

almabes

I put in one of these at my house.
http://www.microcenter.com/product/428946/EAP900H_High-powered_N900_Indoor_Dual-Band_Access_Point-Wireless_Distribution_System_(WDS)

For businesses I recommend open mesh access points.

Both are solid business grade hardware. I have so much 2.4Ghz interference at my house, that band is almost unusable. 5Ghz works great for all my phones, and laptops that support AC.