How to replace Fios router?

Question

Hi,

I would like to replace my Fios wifi router with a tp-link for home wifi, but before I do I have a dumb question.  Here goes...

We have both cable and wifi from verizon.   Our shark fin router has both coax and internet running into it, but  the new router only has ethernet.   Cable boxes each have coax running into them. of course.

So, here's the dumb question - do both  the coax cable and the ethernet cable need to run into the wifi router for it to work?  If so, my tp-link obviously won't work as there is no coax input.

Thanks

gs0b · Accepted Answer

Welcome to the forums!  You're talking mostly to other customers here.

If you have Verzion fios TV service with their set-top-boxes, a Verizon router is pretty much required.  It creates a MoCA LAN network on the coax, which the boxes uses to communicate to Verizon's network and each other.  If you have older boxes (the ones with clocks,) you may be able to use a non-Verizon router with an external MoCA bridge.  The latest boxes ("fios one") are much more difficult to operate without a Verizon router.

You didn't say why you want to replace your Verizon G1100 ("the sharkfin".)  If it's to get better WiFi coverage, you can plug WiFi access points into it's Ethernet ports.  Many TP-Link routers can be run in access point mode, allowing you to get improved WiFi coverage and maintain TV service.

You could also purchase a Verizon network extender.  It seamlessly integrates with Verizon routers to provide improved WiFi coverage.  If you're on one of their newer plans, you may be able to get one at no charge from Verizon.

If you're considering the TP-link for a reason other than coverage, please share and some of the friendly folk here may be able to provide other options.