Router always searching for service

[alanis]

Hi, I have a N150 NetGear router and it's model WNRV1000-v2

I drop connections all the time! I'm using an iMac OS YosemiteX 10.10.1 It's supposedly broadband?! It's better then dial up...LOL
I live in a rural area.

I can't upgrade the router firmware. It shows downloading and then it says file error.

How do I know if it's time for a new router? Is there a way to test for this?
I do have an older laptop if it would be necessary to use.

I just did a ping test results: Download speed 19.39MBPS and Upload 3.93
those don't sound very good to me. What should they be?

What is a good router and it won't break the bank?

Thanks!!

[renegade600]

contact your isp and have them check your lines. as far as when to get a new router, bypass the router and plug into the modem. If you are getting a better signal, then it may be time for a new router.

[alanis]

Thanks I will do that!