Discussion Switching Routers; do what first

[videobruce]

I have the existing Router is running, the replacement Router (Netgear R700) is mounted and powered up, but no connections.
What is the best/safest order to swap cables? WAN first, then LAN, Power on for both or shut down everything and swap all cables?

My ISP is Verizon FIOS if that matters. My devices all have static IP's, no printers involved. The only WiFi is for my wifes cell phone. I did connect the new Router to a Laptop w/o any Internet connection do do initial settings.

 

[Quintessa]

What is the best/safest order to swap cables?

Here's a clean and safe order for the swap:

1. Power down both routers.
   Helps avoid DHCP/IP conflicts, especially with FIOS.
2. Disconnect WAN from the old router.
3. Connect WAN to the new Netgear.
4. Reconnect LAN devices if needed (or keep as-is if using same IP ranges).
5. Power on the new Netgear router.
6. Wait for full boot + WAN light.
7. Reconnect wife’s phone to new WiFi.

My ISP is Verizon FIOS if that matters.

It does. If your FIOS ONT is in Ethernet mode, you're good. But if it's still using Coax (MoCA) and you're replacing their router, some features (like guide/VOD on set-top boxes) may break. If that's not a concern, carry on.

My devices all have static IP's, no printers involved.

Then just make sure Netgear is using same subnet/gateway IP as old router to avoid any DNS issues. Let me know if you're bridging or using the Netgear in AP mode, order can change slightly.

 

[videobruce]

No coax anything here, in the city, Verizon doesn't offer TV unlike the suburbs.. The Netgear is using the stock/standard/default 192.168.1.1 and 255.255.255.0
The old Router is mine also. Both Routers are running dd-wrt F/W.

Verizon here in this market is charging $5 more a month if you DON'T use their Router. They started this 3 months ago.

I'll try to report back after the switch.

 

[JackMDS]

I changed Routers too a while ago.

The first thing that I did, I logged to the old Router before disconnecting it.

Open the stetting Menus, went trough them and took a screen picture of each menu. This way I can make sure that if needed I know what to put in the New Router setting.