What are /r/OPTIMUM's favorite Products & Services?

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Please read the FAQ on this sub. It is both a mod pinned post and in the sidebar.

You cannot base the ISP speeds on a wireless speedtest via a cell phone, or any other wireless device. This test, if actually testing anything, only shows that either your Wireless Router OR the Phone itself has problems.

Test to speedtest.net or fast.com ; and do not test on a phone.

Again, read the FAQ. That is it.

I understand, not disagreeing with you on that. But unfortunately it comes down to purchasing stolen property (even though you are not aware of it being stolen) and thus subjected to the ramifications.

Unless the modem was dirt cheap, a compatible modem for Optimum all the way up to 1Gig tier can be found pretty reasonability priced.

https://www.amazon.com/ARRIS-SURFboard-Approved-SB8200-Frustration/dp/B07DY16W2Z/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=arris+sb8200&qid=1624549317&sr=8-3

1. Get your own modem (DOCSIS 3.1) to save on the modem rental fee if you plan on staying with the service longer than 1 year.
2. Get your own router (Mesh Setup) to save on the router rental fee.
3. That Network Enhancement Fee is just an excuse tax.
4. *That's interesting they are now charging for "digital billing". But they negated the cost for you. I would setup bill pay using your bank account if your bank allows it OR add a Privacy card(privacy.com) to the Optimum Bill Pay so you have more control.

SNR is good. DS is a bit too high, I suggest buying a forward attenuator, basically reduces the power level of DS down by 6 dB without affecting upstream (could increase just a little bit): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07882H96R/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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There are uncorrectables ... there is still a signal leakage somewhere between your modem and the tap.

amazon.com/gp/product/B0054EILOE/

That's the one. I see it's still available for a little over $8 now. I should say after all these months that there are still annoying issues with the cable and picture quality, but I stand by this splitter made things better.

Yes, no problem at all. Just remove Optimum Voice and disconnect the handsets from your modem.

Highly recommend purchasing your own TM1602A off Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Touchstone-TM1602A-Upgradeable-Telephony-Optimum/dp/B07CSDSBZB/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=tm1602a&qid=1669743881&sr=8-2

Same model as you have now, you can register it yourself. Once you return the one you were renting from Optimum, you'll remove the $10/month charge off your bill.

No, one of the units would work as your router and the other two would be the mesh network. Basically, you will need to have one plugged into the modem (this would be the router), but if you want to have any devices hardwired you will need to get Network port as well.

https://www.amazon.com/Ethernet-Splitter-Optimization-Unmanaged-TL-SG108/dp/B00A121WN6/ref=pd_bxgy_sccl_1/135-8432418-1360664?pd_rd_w=2BaBL&content-id=amzn1.sym.7f0cf323-50c6-49e3-b3f9-63546bb79c92&pf_rd_p=7f0cf323-50c6-49e3-b3f9-63546bb79...

I think i'm going to buy my own modem and router. I understand which modem to get, but I'm still debating routers. I'm thinking of this one: www.amazon.com/TP-Link-AC1750-Smart-WiFi-Router/dp/B079JD7F7G/

What you need is a small Network switch, Basically a small switch will have like 4 or 5 ports on it so your set up would go like this: Google router OUT goes to one port on the switch, then your xbox and TiVo will also plug into the switch. Bam internet for all

Something like this: SWITCH

Just buy a TM1602A yourself off of Amazon. Save $10/month off your bill in the process.

https://www.amazon.com/Touchstone-TM1602A-Upgradeable-Telephony-Optimum/dp/B07CSDSBZB/

You don't even need Optimum's help to register it. Just follow the instructions in this sub's FAQ.

Then, you will have the freedom to use whatever Router you want.

You really won't find a decent router cheap but you can start with Amazon and the Eero deals for Prime Day.

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/arris-surfboard-32-x-8-docsis-3-1-cable-modem-white/5839003.p?skuId=5839003&ref=NS&loc=101

https://www.amazon.com/Introducing-Amazon-eero-dual-band-extender/dp/B086P6PBWB/ref=sr_1_3?crid=D3ONAJOR10IC&keywords=eero+6&qid=1657054672&sprefix=eero+6%2Caps%2C83&sr=8-3&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.18ed3cb5-28d5-4975-8bc7-93deae8...

For what it's worth I just had Optimum here and they installed a new modem so we could get gig service.

Plugged it into my home network and nothing worked as the new modem is also a router and won't play nice with the network I have set up which is a router to a switch to ethernet ports and UniFi WiFi.

The tech had no clue how to configure the modem in bridge mode or disable WiFi and told me to contact Optimum. I did and after an hour trying to explain what I wanted, the magic words were "I just want the new modem to work like the old one", the tech recommended I get my own modem and confirmed the TM3402 works with Optimum.

So I know, cool story bro, but to make a long story short they're in stock at Amazon and I grabbed one.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08QFCB19S/

Optimum customer here that uses Mullvad.

I am currently connected via Wiregaurd and am not experiencing this issue. I have my own modem set to bridge mode with an OpenBSD firewall/router in front of it fully managed by me.

Are you using Optimum issued equipment?

Best thing would be to demand a replacement but for a timed reset you can pick up a smart plug like this, no physical smart speaker required, then set up a routine in the kasa app. Set it up to reset at night once a week at night, I guess?

My modem does not support voice.

Linksys High Speed DOCSIS 3.0 24x8 Cable Modem, for Comcast/Xfinity, Time Warner, Cox & Charter (CM3024)

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https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0741FKSZ8/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_search\_asin\_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Why throw unnecessary accusations out there bud? Look at the product question sections for both, and you can see that they both do not support GV.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FZYPD8T

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FZYTSVL

Obi 300: “If you are considering this particular model, please be aware that it is NOT compatible with Google Voice. The Amazon webpage description of it does not say anything about it. Instead, purchase OBi200. I was able to get a dial tone and successfully tested the unit but it would not configure Google Voice because it is not compatible.

OBi302 From product description: A sip service provider only product. Note: The OBi302 does not support the Google voice™ communications service. Sip service provider support for up to four (4) SIP accounts any available service can be accessed from each Phone port independently aggregation/ Bridging of four (4) SIP voice services and one (1) OBiTALK service

If you're not on fiber your best upload you can get is 50 Mbps with optimum gig. The coax service is NOT symetrical . The plan is 1000/50 .

70+10 for the modem so 80+ tax and fees . You know what costs the same ? FiOS for 1000/1000 and a ping of ~4. Altice/ool really dropped the ball.

This is what I'm getting at this time https://www.speedtest.net/result/9436312094.png

Instead of Hivelocity Hosting, try testing to an optimum run server.

https://www.speedtest.net/result/9436238357

down speeds fluctuates between 600 and 940. up speeds between 45 and 50. honestly, i was ok with 100/35. main reason i upgraded was because it was cheaper. for 100/35 i was paying $90. the "1gig" connection is $70.

https://www.speedtest.net/result/9385931213 even though I pay for 300 mps. On fast it says I'm getting 10-20. It's hard to tell because it's always fluctuating because of how shitty this company is.

I have this. XR500 from netgear. Amazon link.

You plug in the wire from the existing router if its not a combo system and plug the new router in its place. Connect a computer to the router directly with the modem attached to the router. Go to 192.168.1.1 and enter the default password. Set up router and boom. The router I listed is made for specific needs and is very fast. Most people don't even need half of what that thing can do. It comes with directions just in case I missed a step. My optimum modem doesn't require a signin to use its service like some other ISPs need. Its really easy. You got this.

You would need a Power Line Adapter.

NETGEAR Powerline adapter Kit, 2000 Mbps Wall-plug, 2 Gigabit Ethernet Ports with Passthrough + Extra Outlet (PLP2000-100PAS) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0778Y6K6N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7JQMKV19X3R7BCVVMX11?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

But it would still lead to you to possible compatibility issues.

The best thing you can do is

A. Dump the Optimum equipment and put in new equipment.

B. Find the hardware vendor for Optimum and see if they make PowerLine Adapters or extenders.

Ultimately, Optimum is garbage. I go by the motto -

• Optimum As A Service

All the equipment is either restricted or crap. Use your own modem and mesh router.

Don’t use their DNS. Get a PiHole.

Don’t use their email.

Don’t use their site (Setup a Privacy Card on the billing site.

I am from the Bronx as well. Exact same shit. Optimum 300. I go to fast.com to test my speed and it's always around 10 Mbps. I can't even game anymore cause my internet slow as fuck.

The internet was good for the past week. Before that past week the internet was slow as fuck just like it's acting now. Considering changing to fios.

I live in Somerset County, NJ and have also been experiencing the stream throttling for a few weeks. I filed an FCC complaint last week after receiving no support from Optimum other than them wanting to schedule a tech to come to my home. I received a call on Monday from the Optimum corporate relations office saying their engineering team is monitoring the signal levels.

Last night, it seems the throttling has been fixed/disabled. I'm seeing correct speeds now on fast.com and streaming is working fine again.

This is *mostly* the case. TP Link mesh systems start at $100 per node for AX wifi 6. So, if you just get one node you can cover maybe 2000 sq. ft. and you're done, but you need to have your own router. Even a 2 pack is only 130.

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https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Deco-X20-Next-Gen-Extenders/dp/B085Z35GY6/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=tp%2Blink%2Bdx20&qid=1636899794&qsid=133-3848091-8742821&sr=8-3&sres=B085Z35GY6%2CB084GTH5LL%2CB079JD7F7G%2CB06WVCB862%2CB084HLB7LJ%2CB08H8ZLKKK%2CB010S6SG3S%2CB07YMFZ28Q%2CB0195Y0A42%2CB07Q2WQWT7%2CB00P4JKQGK%2CB08TH4D3QV%2CB07RLHLXLC%2CB08Z2XXFFW%2CB08JLFGRMT%2CB091T7DHTM&srpt=NETWORKING_ROUTER&th=1

I know the UDMP should be able to handle a throughput of 3.5 Gbps running IDS /IPS features. So that in theory shouldn't be your bottleneck. Make sure you disable traffic shaping and any other form of QOS.

I wish we could see your connection stats , but we can't because the optimum ubee locks those down. Thats why getting a third party modem like the sb8200 is a good idea

Try speed testing to fast.com and https://www.linode.com/speed-test/ (select a city near you) post back with your speeds. Speed test from your device , hardwired at your optimum unit and right behind your UDMP.

If the UDMP is testing 900 then thats what's going through your modem . unfortunately that means you very likely have a bottleneck in your LAN side .

And again only test hardwired .

I have found NextDNS to be decent for locking down a network. https://nextdns.io Unless you're hitting over 300,000 DNS queries in a month, the service is free. There are a lot of options to boot, including logs and analytics.

https://getmailspring.com/setup/access-optonline-net-via-imap-smtp#:~:text=Optonline.net%20provides%20IMAP%20access,devices%20and%20desktop%20email%20clients.

Instead of just upgrading to a better router, try purchasing a Wireless Access Point (not extender). This connects via Ethernet to your existing router and becomes a new antenna for the network that you can place anywhere.

I set up a Ubiquiti Unifi at my parent's place. Their router was in the basement and they needed better speeds on the main floor.

https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-Unifi-Ap-AC-Long-Range/dp/B015PRCBBI/ref=pd_lpo_3?pd_rd_i=B015PRCBBI&psc=1

Once I got this set up in the living room (small hole drilled in corner of floor in order for ethernet to reach basement router), the wireless speeds more than doubled.

Thanks. Is that on the link you shared? I don’t think so? I found this on Amazon? Is the $150 one here the right one? ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem, Approved for Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum & others , White , Max Internet Speed Plan 2000 Mbps https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DY16W2Z/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6H1TC502Y7MVPK5YK5P5

I just went to their site after a super quick DDG search;

https://www.optimum.net/tv/optimum-app has a link to https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.optimum.unity.mobile.prod

If your phone is no longer supported it’s most likely because your phone is outdated or something. This is an android fragmentation issue that happens a lot.

Edit; in the review comments. It appears you can email for issues like this.

Ok perfect, so here is what you do.

The Arris is a MODEM, which connects the cable line from outside, and converts that signal to the network cable that connects to a ROUTER.

What you need to do is buy a good mesh WIFI system that is easy to setup, like this one: https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-eero-6-3-pack/dp/B085WSCTS4/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=eero+mesh&qid=1628782042&sr=8-2

and hook up the main unit to the network cable coming out of the back of the MODEM. Once you power on the other two units, you will create a blanketed WiFi coverage map around your house. Set those two in other parts of the house to expand the WiFi bubble.

To give you a concrete example, something like this would help improve everything: Amazon eero mesh WiFi system – router replacement for whole-home coverage (3-pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WMLPSRL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DZTJPVNMDKSWVNNS73F7

Step 1 is getting it up and running so you're ahead of the curve there. Second hardest thing is getting the right person to upgrade you/schedule the appointment for the guy to "code" your service. It killed me a little bit on the inside that that they *require* an appointment to do something like this but trust me, follow the process and it'll save you some headaches.

I would double check that your laptop isn't hitting a vpn (i.e. NordVPN). Datacamp is a known network provider for a few VPNs which would explain both the weird IP and the slower speed.

Thank you for the responses. In one of the top reviews for a MoCA filter, it says:

>Many ISPs are "upgrading" customers by sending them a new modem that is most likely using the newer DOCSIS 3.1 standard. MoCA frequencies interfere with DOCSIS 3.1, so you need to connect a filter at the back of the new modem (in addition to the filter at PoE). If you don't, you'll either get super slow speeds or the internet just straight up won't work. These filters worked perfectly and everything is good now.

So basically place one filter where the ISP coax enters the house, right before the first splitter (PoE), and another one right before the modem?

Nah, not dumb at all.

Assuming there are multiple clients in the dead-zone room. If you could get a line into the room from the primary router you could connect a wireless access point to serve whatever needs wifi. Could be another router or something like this,

https://www.amazon.com/Ubiquiti-UAP-AC-LITE-802-11ac-Gigabit-Dual-Radio/dp/B01DRM6MLI/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=ubiquiti+access+point&qid=1619491480&sr=8-4

You can ask, personally I have Samsung box because I have my own modem for 1Gig internet so I don't have to pay the $10 a month fee.

If you want ethernet, you can use a MoCA adapter before your cable box, like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XYDG7WN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_TZZH34HNVXTMXV9BW8K5

If you guys want to save money you can buy this modem: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DY16W2Z/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_YQWM55029DEMM5E80CXR

And your own mesh router to cover your whole house and save on modem rental fees.

Just understand you can't use the Altice Mini boxes without the UBEE gateway.

if you have the money to spend, try to get new modem (https://www.amazon.com/ARRIS-SURFboard-Approved-SB8200-Frustration/dp/B07DY16W2Z)

this modem is supported by optimum and will be good if you are also trying to upgrade to 1gb CABLE.

Looks like the CM500 won't work. So I just ordered CM1200 since it was only 20$ extra than the CM 1000.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q5VM51Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_Aa17FbX6SRWZV

Hopefully I will be abel to register the CM1200 and works fine.

With a small investment up front but ZERO BILLS for VOIP phone service after completed.

Port out # to prepaid cell phone (VZW OR ATT work best, even the mvno providers like tracfone work); once it successfully ports out, create a google voice account on a new gmail account (Call it something like ).

Trouble porting out? OPTIMIM/Altice has no PIN to port out. Make sure you ask to speak to a tech support manager and notate your intentions to port out and that they accept the port when requested. IT MAY TAKE up to 2-7 days depending on your carrier be patient) Forward all home calls from your prepaid to your cell phone if you need to use it.

Order this: https://www.amazon.com/Obihai-OBi200-Adapter-Support-Service/dp/B07FCS1NGM.

On your google voice account, port in the number from you new prepaid phone service. it will cost $20 to port in.

Activate the VOIP box with google voice & PROFIT! For using fax and home phone or two lines, order this box instead and create a separate gmail account for the fax#. https://www.amazon.com/OBi202-2-Port-Adapter-Support-Service/dp/B007D930YO

Highly recommend replacing Optimum's subpar equipment with your own modem and router.

Popular Wifi Router - $56.99 https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-AC1750-Smart-WiFi-Router/dp/B079JD7F7G

The Modem I am currently using - $77.98 https://www.amazon.com/MOTOROLA-MB7621-Approved-Spectrum-Downloads/dp/B077BL65HS

Disclaimer: if you have Optimum Voice, you will not be able to use this modem. the device does not have a phone-line connection.

Now, I do still have my house phones. I purchased Ooma Telo for $99 and $0.00/month to have my phone service go over the router.

You can Save $10/month off your bill by eliminating Optimum's equipment.

Easier option is to use a MoCA network adapter. It's a little more expensive but lets you use the existing coax cabling in the house.

https://www.amazon.com/Actiontec-Bonded-Ethernet-Adapter-ECB6200K02/dp/B013J7O3X0

I think Optimum was “upgrading” all of the OOL 100 folks to 200. What’s on your bill?

I would go with a DOCSIS 3.1 modem to future proof such as this - ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem, Approved for Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum & others https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DY16W2Z/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_7jFPFb19DH2JP?psc=1

You can use this for the firewall . Intel NICs https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01H2QJTM4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_y0GMFbM8HXCPB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Technically ( dont recommend it ) on FiOS you can plug their SFP fiber straight into a custom firewall appliance. It doesn't really have an advantage over just using the ONT Ethernet out though .

I dont know enough about home mesh offerings. I am a fan of ubiquity though for small businesses. ... It does get a bit expensive for home use though. Most of my setup as you can tell is prosumer

You are having a ranging problem. Levels are hot and causing the modem to complain.

You need to pad the line at the cable modem (upstream attenuator).

Lower the signal levels on your upstream. The link below is for a 6dB pad. Your 52db will drop to 46db. But your forward levels will increase +6.

Forward levels need to be between +10 to -10. So if the 6dB pad pushes past that number line, use a 3db pad.

Parts Express In-Line Coax Cable TV Signal Attenuator 6 dB https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002ZPIT6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iW2KFbFKWBC4G

https://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Nighthawk-Cable-Modem-CM1150V/dp/B07LCHLFD6/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=CM1150V-100NAS&qid=1603210901&sr=8-3

Can I use a modem that comes with two ports so I don't have to have two pieces of hardware?

You would need to try this out.

Altice may require that a set top box be needed at all times. Why?!

1. The original Optimum App had that requirement for “security”
2. Altice likes the free money it gets from leasing equipment. It’s a joke dude.

Honestly I am going to try and grab this

Samsung GX-SM530CF Cable Box and Streaming Media Player with Built-In Wi-Fi (2013)

Samsung GX-SM530CF Cable Box and Streaming Media Player with Built-In Wi-Fi (2013 Model) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EYO241Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fab_2PmIFbV4W0NBN

And then try using a cable card to cut the box cost.

So I am about to move to Hoboken, NJ and my only option is Optimum. I am thinking of going the 1gig route despite it being on Coax. I currently have Spectrum in NYC and have noticed that my modem is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, do you reckon I could use this? (https://www.amazon.com/Hitron-Docsis-Internet-wireless-E31N2V1/dp/B07V6WXRB3)

Also, what happens if you don't return them?

Optimum’s service. It is a high usage issue with the CMTS (cable modem termination system) that serves your home.

File a FCC complaint and Optimum will make a ticket. Alternatively, call Optimum’s corporate department, explain the situation, and they will create a ticket.

I have the same slow upload speeds issue and the CMTS that serves me is being monitored by Optimum.

As a workaround, try using a VPN. Someone else said twitch streams more reliably with VPN. I use NordVPN and their NordLynx tech with no issues.

If FiOS is available at your house, I’d definitely get it.

Thanks for the reply!

Normally I'd be getting 4-6 MB/s downloads, I'm now getting max 25 KB/s. I'm still getting 4-6 MB/s downloads on the web (confirmed with .

I haven't changed any settings on my torrent client (Transmission on Mac) before or during this. I'm using the same VPN service (Private Internet Access) I was before, and it didn't slow down my downloads when using it before. I've tried switching to different VPN servers across the world, same results.

The experience is consistent, I tested using a generic Ubuntu download torrent. For a torrent right now it's showing I'm downloading from 38 out of 199 peers at 8.6KB/s.

I also tried turning the VPN off, same results.

I’d recommend a forward path attenuator instead so it doesn’t mess with the lower frequency upstream channels and cause additional problems.

https://www.amazon.com/line-Signal-Forward-Attenuator-FPA6-54/dp/B07882H96R

This one works great and will only lower the downstream channels without weakening the upstream channels.

I think they indicated this was the Altice One box. I’ve never seen a status page from one, but it looks like they don’t show errors? Or maybe it’s just cut off or in a different place?

Your power levels on the downstream are a bit high (+2), but you can solve that by using a 3db attenuator to reduce the signal 3 points.

https://www.amazon.com/3db-Coax-Cable-Attenuator-each/dp/B0013L69D2/ref=sr_1_7?dchild=1&keywords=attenuator&qid=1595555654&sr=8-7

What are your correctable/uncorrectable numbers from the 192 page?

Also what router brand and model?

It'd be in addition to buying a modem.

That router (which I don't own, I just saw good reviews by thousands of people in Amazon) only routes the signal from the modem to all the devices connected to it.

As per the modem, I do own this NETGEAR CM400 and it works perfectly fine for me. It paid for itself in 9 months at the time. Otherwise, I believe you have to pay Optimum for "renting" one.