[mythtv-users] OT: (a bit) Verizon router is it needed?

[Gary Buhrmaster]

On Wed, Jul 20, 2016 at 11:20 PM, Kris Jensen <kris.jensen.knj at gmail.com> wrote:

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> Is anyone knowledgeable on Verizon stuff? Is that statement correct ?

The answer is, yes, you can use your own router, but
depending on the specifics, it will likely cost you far
more than the (one time) $60 that Verizon is charging
for their newer router (no recurring charges with the
new router, apparently).  So you have to decide if
this is the way you want to invest your resources.

Discussion

Depending on your current connection, the old device
is performing one or more of the following functions:

  * Moca ethernet bridge
  * NAT router functions
  * Wireless connectivity

Some chose to purchase a combined router and
wireless device (it is common in the consumer
space).

If you have some of the higher FiOS speeds you
need to chose the device carefully because many
older (or cheaper) models simply cannot perform at
speed.

One should be able to purchase a Moca ethernet
bridge (there are very few consumer routers that
include the moca bridge functionality) and then
just plug the (new) router into the bridge (which
plugs into the coax).

Alternatively, in some cases you can connect a
Ethernet cable from your router into the ONT, but:

   * In some ONT's, the port is physically blocked
   * Most ONT's are located outside, so:
     - You have to run a Ethernet cable to the ONT
        which means:
         . You may need to drill in the side of the
            residence
         . You have to protect against rodents
            (yes, they will chew the cable)
         . You have to provide lightning protection
            for the Ethernet cable and the upstream
            equipment (induced voltages can destroy
            their ports)(*).
   * FiOS may have to enable the ethernet port
     (and disable the ONT Moca bridge function).

Depending in the specifics, you may end up having
to have a Verizon Tech replace/upgrade the ONT.




(*) Lightning protection is an advanced discussion
all on its own, and in any case, has to meet your
local jurisdictions codes (which are usually based
on NFPA 70, but can vary).


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