AT&T Fiber is not a normal cable-modem replacement job. The AT&T gateway usually stays, so the real choice is IP Passthrough versus a simpler second-router setup.

A guest or IoT network can separate smart TVs, streaming devices, cameras, and speakers from laptops, phones, work devices, and local files—but casting and remote-control features need testing.

If router-level blocking works everywhere except one browser or phone, encrypted DNS, a device VPN or a privacy relay may be taking a different route.

Replacing your router does not have to mean resetting every smart bulb, camera and speaker. Preserve the right network settings and most devices can reconnect automatically.

When a router VPN drops, traffic may fall back through your ISP or stop completely. Learn how kill switches, automatic reconnection and device exceptions determine what happens next.