Streaming network issues - need a geek

6 Mb/s isn’t enough for 4K video (not even close). You’re able to watch video because it’s dropping down to a lower resolution stream. Check if you’re able to get Starlink satellite internet in your area: https://www.starlink.com/

Yep, those broadband speeds are way too slow for reliable 4k. Starlinks is fast enough but a 1 yr wait. But if that is your best path get on the list now. It is $110/month tho.

@jgoldrick and @mike_in_nc If I do set the modem (Arris NVG443B - supplied by service provider) to passthrough will I still be able to connect my desktop and printer in the studio via ethernet to the modem (the router is in a different location in the house)? If so will they be behind a firewall? I think not. Could I add a second router for the studio? I have a lot of devices, though not many are hitting it at any one time (sleep mode). 

@yage ​​​​@mspot The TV must be operating at 2K. I will check Starlink. Thanks for the suggestion. 

@mike_in_nc No, NOT connecting the streamers by WiFi, only ethernet. The iPad that I use to control them connects by WiFi. 

Cat 8 is infrastructure that I hope will be needed at some point. I wanted the shielding. I do not have a noise problem. I have replaced network switched power supplies with linear supplies, which does reduce noise though I can't say the difference is overwhelming. Ideally using fiber for the last segment would remove all noise, but neither of my streamers are able to accept fiber. Yes, there are ways around that... maybe someday, but bigger picture stuff first.

I am using an unswitched hub and I have indeed been into the modem and router settings. 

I think I need to draw schematics of my current and preferred network. I know it is hard to get the picture from words alone. Later today or tomorrow. 

Thanks to all.

Try this.

1.  Set modem to pass-through.

2.  Connect Netgear to modem.  That is the only connection to modem other than DSL input.

3.  Connect printer, etc to router leaving 1 ethernet socket open.

4.  Connect final ethernet to cable running to streamer, etc. 

5.  Get a network switch from Best Buy or somewhere and connect it to other end of cable in #4.

6.  Connect streamer, etc to switch.

If you need more connections at the router for the printer, etc. get a second switch for those.

HTH

I think the main issue is that you think the Netgear router is constraining bandwidth. You should make sure this is really the case. Do a speed test (speedtest.net or Google ’speed test’) from a device connected to the modem and then do the test again from a device connected to the Nighthawk. Since your connection is 6 Mb/s the numbers should match pretty closely.