How to cover a large house/space?

Let's cover your question is reverse order. You don't need a new BGW320 unless you have Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) devices to have a fast wireless connection. The other new feature is a 5 Gbps LAN port if you have a high speed server or Network Storage device.

To get one you need a tech dispatch to bring it out and install it and remove your existing ONT (small white box normally on the wall). It may cost you $100 - $149 for the tech dispatch if the phone reps can't "find" a reason to send out a tech to "fix" a issue.

Running Ethernet can be an easy DIY job if you have access to unfinished spaces in your home. The other option is to run a conduit on the outside of your home from the 1st floor to the 2nd floor with 2 small holes and a couple of wall plates.

If you are handy with a drill, working on a ladder at the 2nd floor, you could get it done over a weekend. Check some Youtube video for an idea.

Or you could higher someone to install it and they can fish the Ethernet through wall spaces with minimal holes that can be easy to patch and paint unless you have some exotic paint color.

Finally have you tried moving your 4971 around. They need to be on a flat level surface at least 36 inches above the floor level and 3-5 feet away for electronic devices the can block the antennas. Did a tech setup your 4971s or did you use the Smart Home app?

Dave

Are any of your Extenders connected via Ethernet back to your 5268ac?

Paying a low voltage tech to run some Ethernet to one or both of the upstairs Extenders will improve your coverage and speeds.

Is there a specific reason you still have an old 5268ac when you are using the new Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) 4971 Extenders?

Dave

Thanks for answering.

All of the extenders are wirelessly connected.  They are far away (2 upstairs) and no wires.

I've not looked into running some ethernet.  Is this something that is easy to do?

I am using the 5268ac because that is what was sent to me.  If there is a better router/gateway, i would love to get it.  Is this something that I can contact AT&T and request?  Is there a particular router/gateway that would be better?

Thanks again,

Chris

Thanks for this.  It is very helpful.

I placed the extenders.  I used the Smart Home App.  I have not tried to move them, and two are on the floor (but away from any electronic devices).  I can place them on a shelf/chair that may elevate them.  They are on flat surfaces.  

I basically placed them in rooms that better connections were needs (child bedrooms).

there has not been any improvements.  I have replaced the Gateway 4x, i have moved the extenders around and still the service stinks.  I ran a speed test with the AT&T app on my ipad while sitting next to the gateway.  This is what the results were:

When I taped "Get Help" the app ran some tests and told me that the problem was an extender was too close to the Gateway.  That extender is upstairs...This is just a scam.  If I can't get an improvement in my service, i will change providers.  I'm in Houston.  There are other options.  We pay a fortune for 1G Fiber and I can't connect while sitting in the next room over.

How do I get someone to come to the house and actually check things out.  Are there private services?  Will AT&T do it?  I have spent (literally) dozens of hours on the phone or chat with AT&T "running tests".  Each answer is "we'll send you a new Gateway" and yet i need to turn my cellular service on for my ipad if i am upstairs (sitting next to an extender) and want to check email.

Thanks,

Chris

Houston, TX