I’ve often run a wired router at the front of my network (well immediately behind the modem). The only other topology has been a linux server at the front of the network. Then I like a network behind that where a wireless router can live. I keep my wireless router turned off when not in use, which is an uncommon setup it seems. Anyway, for 1 network I’m managing I’m considering replacing the linux system with a wired router. Wired routers are not super popular for SOHO uses as mos tpeople seem to prefer a wireless router to do everything. Because there is not a huge market options can be limited. Here are some products I’ve investigated.

• Specs:
  • 4 gigabit ethernet ports
  • cost <= $100
• TP-Link TL-R600VPN 
  • I’ve had good experiences with TP-Link wired routers in the past. However, this router is believed to be vulnerable to VPNFilter malware so that makes it too risky at this time.
  • TPLink routers affected by VPNfilter malware?
• Ubiquiti ER-X
  • I’ve had no first-hand experiences with Ubuquiti products.
  • POE passthrough support.
• Cisco RV042G
• Grandstream GS-GWN7000
• Cisco RV130
• Research
  • VPNFilter Devices at risk
  • VPNFilter Update – VPNFilter exploits endpoints, targets new devices
  • VPNFilter-affected Devices Still Riddled with 19 Vulnerabilities
  • Over 200,000 MikroTik Routers Compromised in Cryptojacking Campaign
  • FBI: Kindly Reboot Your Router Now, Please
• Networking Companies Country of Operation
  • TP_Link – China
  • MicroTik – Latvia
  • Cisco – United States
  • Ubiquiti – United States
  • GrandStream – United States
  • TrendNet – United States
• Other Products
  • TRENDnet TW100-S4W1CA – 10/100 only
  • D-Link – no gigabit products in price range
  • Netgear – no gigabit products in price range
  • Linksys LRT214 – outside price range
• Further research
  • There are many more options above $100.