Optimium told me that I needed to restart my router so often is because of all of the items attached to it. They suggested I purchase a Nighthawk router to alleviate this problem.

I've had this modem/router for a year and I've had none of the issues that others are reporting. I did have a bit of trouble with Comcast when I was activating it but I had the same problem when I activated my previous modem so I believe the issue is with my account and/ or with Comcast.

I first purchased this router only to return it the following day (after a full wasted day of troubleshooting) and had it replaced. This second router has now failed after two months, now have to return again (after a further four hours of troubleshooting). Not sure I want it replaced now though...

I don't know whether it's a permanent reduction, or just due to the holiday shopping season. But if you jumped on the R8500 when it first hit the shelves, you paid $100 more than you can get it for as I write this.