Many, I included prefer to run router on dedicated hardware to keep everything up and running rather than taking down the whole network for changes updates errors etc
MrMotofy
joined 1 year ago
hardware options Netgate sells their own appliances( they write/maintain pfSense) the devices are a little pricey but also installed and operational, guaranteed to work and newer faster updates. You're also supporting the maintenance of a free enterprise level router software that runs mega corporations.
Used are plentiful and cheaper Most any single processor 1U short depth server like Dell R210ii, R230 or similar relabeled, Datto 1U, Hyve Zeuss 1U, 1U Supermicro etc Many already have Dual 1Gb NIC but a 10Gb card can be added
There’s also Mini PC routers like Protectli, Firewalla, Qotom Q555G6-S05, Intel NUC, Beelink EQ12 and many more
Thin Clients with an expansion port like HP T620 Plus or HP T730 and add a dual port Intel Nic up to 10Gb/fiber etc
Mini PC ThinkCentre M720q, need a p/n 01AJ9040 pcie riser card, i350-T4 v2 4 port RJ45, x550-T2 for 2 10Gb RJ45, i226 4-2.5Gb RJ45 More info: https://forums.servethehome.com/index.php?threads/lenovo-thinkcentre-thinkstation-tiny-project-tinyminimicro-reference-thread.34925/
Smaller pc’s like the Dell Optiplex are also good options with extra slots to add NIC like upgrade to 10Gb/Fiber etc
Can't realistically compare a new product line to a used older tech...they're just not comparable in price never will be
Ask around or rent the SDS hammer drill for quick easy work of it. If you need a channel can use an angle grinder with a masonry blade. Use a small pressure sprayer of some sort with water to keep dust down. Use a shopvac and assistant too for the dust. Then with a couple 1" or water deep cuts horizontal use a chisel bit in the hammer drill to chip it out.
You can also use a regular circular saw with masonry blade for horizontal cuts. I've fount it easier to cut say 1" deep to get your quick line and make it straight to start then cut full depth as needed and blade will follow first cut. Again light water spray helps. Concrete patch can fill it then a little paint an nobody will ever know.
On inside use angle grinder to cut rectangle for a box at the location. Then chip out, a 3/4" concrete chisel can do detailed work.
Or run conduit on outside. The exterior grey pvc can be scuffed and painted to match exterior.
There's also lots of different trim options with a groove in back or hollow to run cables.I always suggest 3 cables to every normal location with 5 or so at a tv/media location.
One may be able to run through ceiling/attic area or a basement.
There's lot's of info here and in pinned comments.
Home Networking Basics https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjRKID2ucPY&list=PLqkmlrpDHy5M8Kx7zDxsSAWetAcHWtWFl
Outdoor Conduit HowTo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vmX-hona2o&list=PLqkmlrpDHy5M8Kx7zDxsSAWetAcHWtWFl&index=2
Bro...you don't have to remove drywall. I don't understand why people get so insistent on removing drywall. Get a number of Pros in there and I bet none of them will say we have to tear all the drywall off. It's probably not your job don't limit their abilities on your own lack of knowledge and skills.
Mikrotik tends to have very good products