Need Advice - Changing to AC Network Zoom 5363 Cable Modem/Router?

[vlad1966]

Hello All,

Hopefully (funds permitting) I'll be changing my wireless-N (Apple Airport) setup within the next couple of months to wireless-AC. I have 1 main PC, 1 FreeNAS file server, 1 backup PC, 1 HTPC. The HTPC is downstairs in living room, all the other computers are upstairs in one room. All of this sunning off of a Comcast 50Mbps (down) connection. I may need to change from FreeNAS to something else since I understand it doesn't support wireless networking, but that's a problem for another day.

Back to the main reason for this post:
I'm considering getting the Zoom Telephonics 5363 AC1900 Cable Modem/Router all in one unit, since I'm looking to get rid of as many cables as possible in my setup. http://www.zoomtel.com/products/cable_overview.html

I'm pretty tech-savvy when it comes to building PC's, but networking is probably my weak spot. I know a lot of people consider AIO modem/routers to be unreliable, but all the reviews I've seen of the Zoom 5363 seem really good, and it seems to have a lot of networking features. Right now I've got my Motorola Cable Modem, Apple Airport Wireless-N Router, and a cheap 4-port Hub running off the router. Running Cat5e cable downstairs to another hub which links to my HTPC/HDTV. Ideally, I'd like to replace all 3 devices (and associated cables) with the Zoom 5363.

Reviews:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KSLHI3I/?tag=snbforums-20
http://www.trustedreviews.com/zoom-5363-ac1900-review


Any experiences with the Zoom 5363?
If I get the AIO, will I be missing out on any features that a "stand-alone" AC router would give me?

Thanks!

PS: I'll also be adding 802.11AC PCI Express adapters into all of the PC's.

 

[stevech]

Highly recommend not getting an all-in-one modem/router.
Just one cat5 cable and one power cord.

Routers change every year or two, as 802.11 marches.

In fact, I rent the modem so my mean-old ISP (TWC) can't blame customer's modem is at fault and can't charge me for a service call when the modem or service falters.

 

[roadrunner]

I actually prefer an AIO modem/router for the convenience. Technology has advanced to a stage today where the AIO is as stable as the two modem/router combination. A few of my friends also have the Zoom 5363 and the feedback is generally good - fast, good distance and easy to install. Price is reasonable as well. Check out this link for a simple to understand non tech writeup on the 5363: http://jamescausian.hubpages.com/hub/Zoom-5363