NTL broadband setup

Schmiff · 30-03-2005, 16:26

Having recently discovered that AOL does not allow the setting up of a network on an NTL line, it seems my only option is to go with NTL. I have already bought the following in anticipation (because I was previously assured by AOL that it would be fine, hmph):

Netgear WG111 54Mbps 802.11g Wireless USB Adapter
Netgear WGR614 802.11g 54Mbps Wireless Cable/DSL Firewall Router
(I have one laptop and one desktop computer, needing simultaneous connection)

My first question is, because someone else in the house is already an NTL TV customer, will I be required to use their box instead of a stand-alone modem, or is that optional? (there is only one phone line)
Secondly, will the equipment I listed be compatible with the box (if necessary) or the modem that NTL would supply?

Cheers,

Paul

bayonet · 30-03-2005, 18:17

Hi Schmiff

This is my first post so here goes on what ntl say as regards routers. Officially they are not supported but the biggest problem I or anyone else comes across is people not rebooting correctly i.e. Shut all PCs off then router then modem/STB then reboot in order of Modem/STB Router and then one PC and see if you can browse. If going through a STB you need to setup the router as this is seen as a new PC you have to have the person who owns the STB to be around as we usually need to speak to the account holder.

If not try as a stand alone or without the router if you can browse then by process of elimination it may be a router issue. As regards setting up on the STB or modem if the modem is yours then register that first then check if your routers website has a walkthrough or emulator (my DLink 624+ did and I had no problem with setup) I didn't need to clone MAC address or do anything silly. For a complete router novice like me it was dead easy. Set my daughter's laptop on a USB wireles adapter and it runs fine, hope this helps. The gear as far as I can see is fine

Schmiff · 30-03-2005, 21:20

Thanks for the reply bayonet - so do you know if NTL would supply me with a stand alone modem if I asked them to, or would I be required to use the STB? (Is it even possible to use both at once?) The box used for the TV is a fairly old analogue one - would it be upgraded to something else if I had to go through the STB? I'd like to know the details before I actually go ahead and order it, cos the people I speak to are unlikely to know technical details. Sorry for all the questions but I really need to be able to set up a network and this seems to be my only option except for changing over to BT, which would rather annoy the person with cable TV

Cheers,
Paul

Tezcatlipoca · 30-03-2005, 22:34

The Netgear stuff you've mentioned will be fine with ntl cable broadband (whether via standalone cable modem - SACM - or STB).

Are you actually getting a separate account in your name, or are you getting the broadband added to your housemate's account?

SACM or STB depends on the area. Where are you?

If you did have to use an STB, it would have to be a digital one - can't use the analogue STBs.

But I don't see why you couldn't have a separate SACM though.

Schmiff · 30-03-2005, 22:45

Thanks Matt:

I'd have to look into the options re: a separate account. We don't want to pay for another phone line so maybe I'd have to get it added to her account. Would it affect the chances of getting a SACM or not?

I'm on the edge of NW London - a HA8 postcode.

Would a SACM be usable in the same house with only one phone line, with the analogue TV box as well?

Cheers,
Paul

Tezcatlipoca · 30-03-2005, 23:16

You don't have to have a phone line for ntl cable broadband - the modem (or STB) connects to the cable feed, not the phone line.

There's also no need to have to subscribe to the ntl phone service if all you want is broadband - the only service for which you *must* have an ntl phone line is the TV (as they bundle the phone & DTV together).

I don't see why a SACM couldn't be used. The "STB broadband" areas did used to only have broadband via STB, but they can now use SACMs too (well, some parts can, certainly).

Best thing to do, just phone up ntl & ask them

Schmiff · 30-03-2005, 23:30

Excellent, sounds good - will phone them tomorrow. Thanks for the advice

bayonet · 31-03-2005, 07:45

Hi Paul

Sorry for not replying earlier didn't realise it was an old analogue STB just get a SACM in your name. As mentioned by others on here you don't need to subscribe to the phone package as well. Just make sure you have a phone next to your PC if you need to call tech support.