Third party router with FTTP

[jamieburchell]

Anyone successfully using a decent third-party router with TalkTalk's Full Fibre service directly to the ONT without the ISP supplied router?

I naively assumed I'd be able to plug my £200+ AVM Fritz!Box 7590 WAN directly in to the ONT, but it disconnects at 10 minute intervals for 2 minutes at a time due to an apparent DHCP issue. AVM says it's likely that TT implement a non-standard or broken DHCP mechanism and I don't suppose I'd be able to find out the technical requirements from TT. Their page on using a third party router is still geared up for FTTC.

I'm looking at possibly a GL-iNet GL-MT6000 Flint 2 or ASUS RT-AX5400.

Thanks in advance.

[jamieburchell]

I just got a resolution from AVM for my particular issue, which was to uncheck an option in "Telephony" > "Telephone Numbers" > "Line Settings" > "Telephony Connection" > "Connection Settings for DSL/WAN" > Uncheck "Use a separate connection (PVC) for internet telephony". Can't think why I hadn't spotted that 🙂 ! Perhaps it'll help someone...

Thanks everyone.

[nomfezeko-TT]

@jamieburchell , please let us know if the information provided to you helped, if you need further help, please do not hesitate to get back to us. 

-Fez. 

[KeithFrench]

No problem.

[nomfezeko-TT]

Thank you so much for your help @KeithFrench , hopefully, this helps. 

-Fez. 

[KeithFrench]

The normal settings of a TalkTalk router in this scenario is:-

WAN addressing type: DHCP

VLAN Tagging: Disabled

Try setting your 3rd party equipment to this. If your Full Fibre is provided by CityFibre, they use line profiles and you could be on the wrong one. I can't be sure which one you would need to speak to the Full Fibre Helpdesk on 0345 172 0074. Their opening hours are Monday -Friday 08:00 to 19:00, Saturday 09:00 to 18:00, Sunday: Closed.

[nomfezeko-TT]

Thank you for clarifying that you're referring to the DHCP connection between your router and the TalkTalk network. In this case, the frequent disconnections you're experiencing with your AVM Fritz!Box 7590 may indeed be due to how TalkTalk's DHCP is configured. Here are a few suggestions that might help:
 

Some users have found that adjusting the DHCP lease time settings on their router can help maintain a stable connection. If your router allows it, try setting a longer lease time, also ensure that your router is set to obtain an IP address automatically via DHCP. Sometimes, specific settings related to WAN type (like PPPoE or DHCP) can affect connectivity. As mentioned earlier, ensure that your router's firmware is up to date, as updates can resolve compatibility issues.

Please do provide us with feedback if this helps. 

-Fez. 

[jamieburchell]

Hi @nomfezeko-TT I'm referring to DHCP between the router and your network, rather than between the router any my devices. TalkTalk do not provide residential customers with a static IP address unfortunately.

[nomfezeko-TT]

Hello @jamieburchell thank you for reaching out to us regarding your experience with using a third-party router with TalkTalk's Full Fibre service. I understand how frustrating it can be when your equipment doesn't work as expected.
 

While TalkTalk typically provides a router that is optimized for our network, we do support the use of third-party routers. However, as you've experienced, some users have encountered issues, particularly with DHCP settings. Unfortunately, we don't have specific technical requirements for third-party routers, as they can vary widely in their configurations.
 

For your situation, I recommend the following steps:
 

Check Compatibility: Ensure that the router you are considering, like the GL-iNet GL-MT6000 Flint 2 or ASUS RT-AX5400, is compatible with PPPoE connections, as this is often required for fibre services.

DHCP Settings: If you're experiencing DHCP lease issues, you might want to try adjusting the DHCP settings on your router. Some users have found success by setting a static IP address for their router or adjusting the lease time.

Firmware Updates: Make sure your router's firmware is up to date.
 

If you continue to have issues, please feel free to reach out again, and we can assist you further. 

-Fez.