Technicolor Gateway login issue

Has anybody had this experience with a Technicolor router or indeed any brand of router?

I bought a Technicolor DGA4134 from a reputable outlet and began the set-up process by connecting it to my laptop with the supplied cable. I’ve been doing this with multiple router brands since 2003.

I reached the sign-in page and keyed in the default username and the password on the back of the router. I failed to log in. Repeatedly. I’ve used Technicolor routers before and found set-up a breeze.

After about forty minutes I phoned the vendor. The very pleasant techie suggested a range of default user names and passwords before advising me to reset the router. I tried the original user name/password and the defaults again. No luck.

Eventually, I unplugged my current router from the phone line, plugged in the Technicolor and retried. No joy.

I phoned the vendor again. A different techie wanted me to download their virtual desktop. I declined. I’d been struggling for several hours.

I’ve arranged a return/refund but I’m advised it could be 14 days before I see my money, which I need for another router. I'd welcome recommendations. I plan a G-Fast upgrade sometime next year.

First though, what could have gone wrong in the set-up of the Technicolor router? I don’t want a repeat performance.

Thanks.

There is aquick start guide here, it tells you how to reset the unit, that should then reset the password to default.

Thanks but I have the equivalent of that information from my own provider that once shipped this Technicolor model. Resets and defaults have achieved nothing. The router is now packed up for the PO tomorrow. I just wish I knew why I couldn't log in to begin with. This is far and away my worst router experience.

In reply to a post by ARD:

Thanks but I have the equivalent of that information from my own provider that once shipped this Technicolor model. Resets and defaults have achieved nothing. The router is now packed up for the PO tomorrow. I just wish I knew why I couldn't log in to begin with. This is far and away my worst router experience.

Very strange, maybe there is a problem with the firmware, i remember years ago with a TPlink router I had the same problem, no amount of resetting or putting in different passwords would help, I had to send that back as well and got another and that was fine, but annoying when it happens. They said about updating the firmware, but I could not do that unless i had the password

Are they going to send you another one? i hope it gets sorted.

I would advise against buying Technicolor routers as they are only really designed to be sold to ISPs and integrated with their management platforms. You can't get software updates for them easily, or any direct support from the manufacturer.

In reply to a post by ARD:

I plan a G-Fast upgrade sometime next year.

Be careful this router Technicolor DGA4134 doesn't support G.fast. Only VDSL2.

In reply to a post by ARD:

First though, what could have gone wrong in the set-up of the Technicolor router? I don’t want a repeat performance.

Probably recycled and locked to an ISP, doesn’t need to be an ISP in the UK. If so, the firmware will be customised and the passwords are not what this vendor thinks they are. Not all ISPs put their logos on the hardware.

Thanks. This was my 3rd or 4th Technicolor. Although it was bought from a broadband vendor my providers sells lower grade models and, in fact, sold this one during a shortage a few months ago, so I expected it to do me proud.

It seems unlikely given the good reputation of the vendor but you never know. I've bought roughs all over the place but I think I'd stick to my ISP or Amazon from now on. Anywhere else and it's tricky to get a refund.

It's OK for gfast with a modem, I think. Anyway, back it goes and I don't want another.