Replace EE Smarthub with Modem-Only for use with Orbi Router

[twilio]

Hi @XRaySpeX,

I hope you don't mind me tagging you. I've been following several posts and appreciate your perspective.

What modem do you recommend? The context is below.

I was looking at the DrayTek Vigor 166. But my concern is that it would be a speed bottleneck because of this specification "Max ADSL2+ Sync Rate: 20Mb/s". Since my EE Broadband isn't fibre, I understand I won't use VDSL. I believe G.Fast was discontinued for new customers around 2021. The EE engineer confirmed it's copper going to the house. That leads me to believe I need a model that supports ADSL2+.

Challenge/Opportunity

• I'm switching from Virgin Media to EE Broadband Fibre 36 Essential (guaranteed at 32mbps; DSL, not fibre).
• I'd like to use my Orbi RBK50 as the router.
• The EE Smarthub (SH31B) does not support modem/bridge mode.

Proposed Solution

1. Replace the EE Smarthub with a modem-only device that supports bridge mode.
2. Configure the new modem:
   1. EE Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoA);
   2. Modem/Bridge mode.
3. Connect the Orbi RBK50 to the new modem via ethernet.

Desired Result

• Ability to fully leverage my Orbi RBK50 route and network performance.
• Ability to use EE Broadband to save money.

Keywords: third party router, Orbi, Mesh, Smarthub, Smart Hub, Virgin Media, DSL, modem, bridge

[Mustrum · Accepted solution]

@twilio   a few observations.

1. You are not on ADSL2, but VDSL.

2. You don;t configure the modem to PPOA, you do that in your Orbi, but use PPOE.

3. Finding a VDSL modem is not easy these days, but you may find an old Openreach one on eBay or similar, the latest PN Smart Router has a Bridge option, or Draytek, or even an on TP Link 9970 i thinks the model is.

HTH

[twilio]

Great, thank you. I understand better now.

I found the Vigor 166 on Amazon. That ought to be fit for purpose if I'm understanding things correctly.

[XRaySpeX]

Yes, the Vigor 166 is compatible with your FTTC/VDSL Fibre connection.

[Mustrum]

Thanks @twilio  glad I was able to help.

Let us know if you have any issues setting up your modem/Orbi.