Looking for recommendations in updating my home network equipment

G_money1

Seeking quality advice and input in updating my dated equipment at home.
Mainly one user. Future expansion currently unknown, but not likely. 
Requirements:
      - modem must be compatible with Comcast/Xfinity
      - router with two or more Ethernet ports 
      - switch (unless the router can serve as both)
      - all equipment must work with Apple MacBook Pro 
      - wireless capable
      - must be compatible with Xbox One console  

Preferred:
       - separate modem and router?? - I’ve read that this allows for more flexibility and is more secure??
       - Apple/Mac based (works best with apple products)
       - all equipment to work with PC desktop (employer owned)
Equipment needing replacement:
       - Airport Express Wi-fi base
       - Cisco/Linksys modem (Comcast compatible - owned)
        
If anyone could even lead me in the right direction, it would be appreciated.
Thank you,
G

TS_JosephF

Hello @G_money1
Welcome to the community! 
For your home network, all you will need is a DOCSIS Modem (3.0 or 3.1) and any standard Wireless router. Any modern router will be compatible with all Apple devices and your Xbox one as well. You will have some options though. I would recommend at least a Dual-Band Wireless AC or Wi-Fi 5 router. You could get a Tri-Band wireless router or even a Wireless AX router depending on your budget. Also, I do agree with getting a modem and router separately rather than a 2in1 Modem/Router. It can certainly be more secure and will provide you with a lot more options on what you can purchase.

Here are a few modems that I recommend (they are all compatible with Comcast/Xfinity) :
This one is capable of download speeds up to 686Mbps and upload speeds up to 131Mbps: https://www.microcenter.com/product/447161/arris-enterprises-surfboard-sb6183-cable-modem
This one is capable of Gigabit download speeds: https://www.microcenter.com/product/481225/netgear-cm1000-docsis-31-high-speed-cable-modem
This one has a max throughput of 3.8 GB/s: https://www.microcenter.com/product/481351/motorola-docsis-31-cable-modem



As for your router, normally I suggest getting a Mesh Router. It is not required but if you have a large home then I strongly recommend it as it will eliminate any Wi-Fi dead zones around your house. Here is a Mesh Router that includes a main router plus two nodes. They each have 2 Ethernet ports. It is capable of 300Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 867Mbps on the 5 GHz band. https://www.microcenter.com/product/607976/tp-link-deco-m4-ac1200-whole-home-mesh-wi-fi-system-(3-pack)

This is a Tri-Band Wireless AC router. It is capable of 400Mbps over the 2.4GHz band and 867Mbps over each of the 5 GHz bands
: https://www.microcenter.com/product/602874/linksys-mesh-wifi-router-(tri-band-router,-wireless-mesh-router-for-home-ac2200),-future-proof-mu-mimo-fast-wireless-router 

This is a Wireless AX router. It is capable of 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 2402Mbps on the 5GHz band: https://www.microcenter.com/product/603735/netgear-nighthawk-ax4-ax3000-wifi-6-router
Although there is newer Wi-Fi technology out there, Wireless AX or Wi-Fi 6 is the newest we carry at Micro Center. 

Let us know if you have any other questions!