Firmware on FiOS router is atrocious / "Over tightening" current customers

[Szyphoid]

Recently got an AppleTV to go in an upstairs bedroom.  Because there is no way to increase the wifi power signal strength on the standard FiOS b/g router, I decided to move the router to the middle of my house, instead of it being on one far end, directly connected to my PC.  The problem with this is, now my PC’s wifi speed is suffering.  So Verizon, instead of releasing a new firmware for current b/g speed routers to be able to increase signal strength power, you are pushing out new N’ speed routers.  Unfortunately is push for the new routers are, “for new customers only”; unless you want to pay the non-refundable inflated $169.99 price of that said “new” router.  The “over tightening” of current customers is no new thing for big companies always trying to acquire new customers, but if those new customers do not request a higher speed router, give them the old stuff.  I don’t understand why it is so hard to give current paying, and loyal customers the option to upgrade first.

Most un-sincerely, long time loyal customer.

[Szyphoid]

If you can upgrade your STB to easily, why is Verizon making is such a hassle to upgrade routers?

[mja351]

Am I able to use a commercial router that I would buy in best buy or a store like that?

[jackmcgann]

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@Szyphoid wrote:

 I don’t understand why it is so hard to give current paying, and loyal customers the option to upgrade first.

smileyindifferent:

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Have you stopped in a Verizon FIOS store, and asked if you could swap your "non-N" router for a "N-capable" router? I know of 2 people who have been succesful in that manner. 

[Szyphoid]

My two closest Vz stores are a three hour round trips, and I most definitely call before making trips like that.  I have called both and neither have them in stock yet.