Hey guys, I noticed we don't have a dedicated thread on the XB6 modem like the Hitrons. I'm making this thread so we can talk about the various settings and requests for future changes through firmware updates. For me the biggest issues with the modem is we cannot block specific devices from internet access and we cannot use custom DNS servers.
With the Hitrons we could use a custom DNS without issues, and if we bridge the modem we can also use a custom DNS so I don't see why we aren't given the option with the XB6. The Xi6 boxes don't require using Rogers DNS since in bridge mode they are using whatever DNS the user has specified. For security and privacy reasons it's nice being able to choose whatever DNS server we want, and also being able to block devices like personal NAS and IoT from network access.
I know everyone is going to say put the XB6 in bridge mode and problem solved, however besides these two issues my XB6 isn't that bad. The range and speed suits my needs so why should I buy another $200-$300 router just so I can use a custom DNS and block some devices from the internet. Hopefully Rogers listens to our feedback and gives us more control like on the Hitrons.
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Thanks for starting up this thread @gp-se!
A dedicated thread is a perfect place for sharing info and making suggestions. 🙂
Regards,
RogersCorey
Will the XB6 be getting OFMDA like the Hitrons?
Also if we put the XB6 in bridge mode will it disable the public hot spot access, and technician SSID access?
@Biollw have a look at the following sites:
The map on this page is interesting as it shows where hotspot modems are located. Looks like they're running in or near commercial areas, instead of everywhere, but, looking around, there are definitely residential areas where these are running.
https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/disable-xfinity-wifi-home-hotspot
Notice the wording on this page: " Xfinity WiFi hotspots are available at no extra charge if you rent an Xfinity Gateway, including the xFi Advanced Gateway (model numbers TG3482G, CGM4140COM), xFi Gateway (model numbers DPC3939, DPC3941T, TG1682G), and Xfinity Gateway 2 (model numbers Arris TG852G and TG862G, Technicolor TC8305C). Find your Gateway make and model by looking at the UPC seal located on the bottom or back of your device.
We encourage you to keep the Xfinity WiFi Home Hotspot feature enabled, as it allows more people to enjoy the benefits of Xfinity WiFi.
Here's news coverage from a few years ago. Seems that not everyone was enamoured by having their home modem turned into a public hotspot:
Have a look at the wifi scan on this page:
https://www.reddit.com/r/Comcast/comments/bspxtz/xfinity_hotspot_and_hidden_network_causing/
That's probably the worst case scenario, hundreds of SSIDs in a very small geographical area.
Here's Shaws take on the hotspot, which didn't go down well with their customers:
https://support.shaw.ca/t5/service-updates-outages/shaw-hotspot/ta-p/6066
Hi @Jamiesmith1976!
Though I can't speak to the design decision what I can confirm for you is that the HDMI input port is disabled on all Xi6 set top boxes. That said though to my knowledge the boxes will work just fine using an HDMI switch if needed.
