Which pods should I use?

[lyric]

I am debating between renting bell wifi pods and purchasing goggle wifi. 

What’s everyone’s thoughts 

[dks]

You might wonder why the pods and modem have to use separate software. The reason is simple. They are from two different suppliers. I have had the pods for three years with great success, after many experiments with other mesh systems and extenders that were expensive failures. The wifi software is fine, but I have a iPhone, as well. Bell doesn’t recommend or support any equipment it does not provide, including wifi extenders, routers or other customer equipment. You are on your own to experiment and learn as you need to. 

[jdabud-Davud]

Hello @dks 

Well, if you believe that what Bell provides is properly called support. ...

The relevant question here is what devices can be used on Bell modems as an alternative for users that do not have smartphones.

[Vanadiel]

Any should work, as long as you are ok with double NAT which should not pose an issue.

However, most come with a phone setup application since that is the easiest way to set them up for most users. Once it's configured you should not have to touch it unless you want to "monitor" it.

Considering the speed at which WiFi protocols change, I would not buy anything expensive. 

I use an Ubiquiti U6+ which can also be meshed if needed, but chances are you will not need a mesh setup as it has a wide range. All you would need is a cat5 cable to hook it up directly to the Bell Home hub and away you go.

[dks]

I understand your point. At the same time, Bell does not support equipment they do not provide and support for their equipment is provided on their terms. As consumers, we have a choice to accept those terms or not. 

[jdabud-Davud]

True. But, as Canadians, we have little choice. And that a problem. The good news is that, when Bell equipment work, it generally works well. And that is all I can say on a public forum.

[Vanadiel]

There is a good choice of mesh systems that will work well with any provider. You don't need the Bell pods, and I would honestly look at third party options if I were in need to extended WiFi coverage.