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Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

champagnecharly — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 13:18:24 GMT

I'd like to replace the current BT Smart hub 2 with a modem and a openwrt router. I'm trying to avoid the double DNS servers etc.

Currently BT fibre essentials. I presume the connection FTTC as the line is connected through an RJ11 to the back of the smart hub.

I'd be grateful of any pointers on what to look for and which would just do the job. Stability over getting a few extra b/s I was always fond of draytek.

Thanks

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

imjolly — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 13:20:19 GMT

do you currently have digital voice as the SH2 is necessary for that to work

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

champagnecharly — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 13:25:20 GMT

imjolly, good question. it's available but I never used it and have no intention to.

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

imjolly — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 13:49:09 GMT

sorry, so you don't use your home phone at all?

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

champagnecharly — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 13:56:49 GMT

Not at all. I only use mobile.

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

licquorice — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 14:36:38 GMT

Just get an Huawei HG612 from eBay. Don't pay extra for an unlocked one, it isn't necessary.

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

champagnecharly — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 15:03:17 GMT

Perfect. thanks.

Are there any advantages of unlocking given the intended purpose? I read something about update to VLAN. IS it necessary

found this https://kitz.co.uk/routers/hg612hacking.htm for the unlocking

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

licquorice — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 15:06:02 GMT

The only reason for unlocking is to access line stats etc

Unlocking is a trivial exercise in any case, as documented on Kitz

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

champagnecharly — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 15:21:41 GMT

Thank you very much for your time help/ advice.

Merry Christmas!!

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

champagnecharly — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 15:29:26 GMT

Comparing prices and age of the HG612, would a vigor 130 be as good or better?

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

licquorice — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 15:44:52 GMT

Probably no difference, go for the cheapest option. A modem has very little work to do.

I have personal experience of using the hg612 but not the Vigor.

Re: Advice on replacing BT Smart Hub with dumb modem

Crimliar — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 23:40:42 GMT

Most of the HG612s are 12+ years old, and many of them are getting a little flaky. A UK spec Vigor 166 or 167 from the EE store is probably your best bet.