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Q: Using Netgear GSS108E with AirPort Extreme routers to prioritize traffic

I want to use my Netgear smart switch with our two Airport Extreme routers to prioritize internet use by family over security camera feeds and other low priority traffic, to reserve highest speed for spouse's and my internet work.  I thought the switch would install directly between our broadband modem and the two routers, but that isn't working as hoped.  Wanted to prioritize the port for one AE over the port for other traffic.

In the Netgear user manual it mentions use of a router or server to assign IP addresses to Netgear ports (I think).  Needs to be a device that automatically assigns IP addresses.

Do I need a third Airport Extreme to serve that role?  Don't have enough tech depth to sort it out.

Help appreciated!  Haven't yet found a previous thread that addresses this specific issue.

AirPort Extreme

Posted on Sep 19, 2016 6:18 AM

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Q: Using Netgear GSS108E with AirPort Extreme routers to prioritize traffic

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  • by Tesserax,

    Tesserax Tesserax Sep 19, 2016 8:08 AM in response to donthieman@gmailcom
    Level 9 (54,684 points)
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    Sep 19, 2016 8:08 AM in response to donthieman@gmailcom

    You cannot achieve your goal with the current networking equipment. The Netgear switch, like any other Ethernet switch, should not be placed between the modem and the routers. It must go downstream of either router. If this switch is a managed switch, you may be able to program it for your needs ... for at least the devices directly connected to it.

     

    Unfortunately, the AirPort base stations do not provide any form of Quality of Service (QoS) functionality. That is they can't prioritize network traffic. A simple way, albeit at an additional cost, is to employ a router that does.

     

    FWIW, I use a Cisco RV180 as my "main" router and use AirPort base stations to provide my home's Wi-Fi network. The Cisco has been configured to prioritize traffic for my network. There are numerous other routers out there that can perform this function as well.