BT Smart Hub 2 Replacement?

Hi all,

The BT Smart Hub 2 is limited to what I can do with it, especially with setting the DNS!

Can anyone recommend me a cheap replacement but with decent WiFi coverage? We use FTTP.

Thanks.

Cheap or reliable?

And what FTTP speed do you have - there are some good devices, but may NOT support full GBit FTTP

What other functions do you require?

It's the 150MB FTTP

Main thing is editing the DNS, 2nd main thing is schedule (i.e. block internet access at specific timing) and finally, good WiFi coverage from a single device.

Thanks.

If the Wi-Fi coverage is poor currently then it's unlikely that you will find a single box that can perform any better so you might want to look at options that let you add additional access points.

I assume you mean 150 Mb (bits not Bytes)


Have a look at the Ubiquiti UDR https://uk.store.ui.com/uk/en/pro/category/all-unifi... The equipment is top end consumer and also professional/business. Not necessariky the cheapest, but good quality build, reliable.

It runs the Unifi Netwrok software - the same as the UDM-Pro and UDM-SE so should have the same capabilities.

On a UDM-Pro, you can set DNS for both IPv4 & v6

Create two or more WiFi networks - so you can have one for the kids which a scheduler running.


My experience is with the -Pro & -SE with WAPs so no knowledge of the coverage but in a large house, I have just two UI WAPs and can get 300Mbps (minimum) everywhere and why better in some locations.

With current poor coverage though, you may/maynot see an improvement, but with the UDR, you can run an extra WAP directly from it - chose a UI one, and they are PoE powered, so just a single unobtrusive cable.


I have the TBB BQM running on both IPv4 & v6 which nevewr shows an issue. The UDM runs its own speedtest and with a 500Mb service, I see 495-496 time after time after time.


REGISTER in the forum https://community.ui.com/timeline and ask there for specific experience and confirmation on DNS and scheduling.

Edited by MHC (Tue 16-Jan-24 12:58:24)

Thanks. I've had Ubiquiti kit in the past and yes I agree, it's very good. But totally overkill for her needs at the moment. She (mother) only need a click & go settings, not complex UI to set it up, etc.

Maybe a little over the top, but any decent Hub will be £100 or more.

And you could have remote access to the UDR too,.

Take a look at the ASUS range, I think their products are great for home users who want to do a bit more without it being for professionals

Ohh, yes. I forgot about the ASUS range, I will take a look.

Thanks.

I'm liking RT-AX82U and it seems many BT customers use it with no issue.