I have a network with a Thomson Modem Router as provided by Telecom. I'd think it would be great for the majority of the population, but I don't like it one bit. My routers generally have DD-WRT installed on them for a bit more customization, something this router lacks.

We have over 20 devices connected to our home network and this router doesn't seem to be able to keep up. After a day or so my ping rises to 1s and I need to restart the router. I think it is over heating or something. This is a fairly generic router so I assume it is made for standard home use. What I would like to do is replace it with something a bit better for my situation, more robust. High, constant traffic.

I have a WRT 54GL that is repeating the wireless signal, but it doesn't really matter what the base router is for this feature. Currently all of the devices in the household use Wireless G. I am slowly upgrading to Wireless N, but it isn't really a big issue.

As I understand I have two options.

1) Purchase a DSL modem and a decent Router

2) Purchase another, decent, modem router.

I'm not sure which to do. It seems I am limited by choice for the modem router especially when you add DD-WRT compatibility to the requirements. Yet it seems there aren't any newer DSL modem models on the market. What do I do? Can you recommend a better system?

Requirements:

Must not overheat ( I understand almost all routers need to be restarted every now and then)
Must handle a decent amount of traffic
DD WRT compatible
Robust