Avoid the Bell Hub 2000
Avoid the Bell Hub 2000
Hi, I need to get rid of the Bell router completely because it's causing problems at our store. The Wi-Fi is dropping, the router’s CPU stays at maximum, internet goes down, and even the whole network fails. We’re trying to reboot it to fix things. I want to fully remove the Bell router (Sagemcom Fast 5250) and replace it with another one. Is there a way to completely eliminate it and connect a different router? Also, can you describe how the Fibe device connects to the Bell Modem and converts it into a standard Ethernet cable for the Hub 2000? I don’t have a picture of the Bell router, but it looks like the Hub 2000.
The direction to the right appears to be a fiber connection, indicating the ISP's router is likely the best fit. Replacement options would probably be costly if they exist. On your side, you can handle access points and switching by connecting your own Ethernet cables and turning off their wireless features. It might use PPPoe, so you'll need to obtain credentials from your ISP; otherwise it should function like regular Ethernet, letting you use your own setup. For small setups this works with a single Wi-Fi AP and router, while larger operations can benefit from separate switches and distributed access points throughout the space.
@RTX 3090 Yes it is a fibe that go to the bell modem ( cable on the far right ). then the modem convert it to standard RJ45 ( Gray cable around the center of the modem ) and then go from there to the Bell router. I' ve try to bypass the bell router by unplugging it and replaced it with my own router ( business grade router ) but it didnt work, was showing no internet at all !!. I have already asked Bell for a better router but they dont have 1 ( as they say )
Yes, you can configure your Bell router in bridge mode. Bell provides guidelines for integrating third-party routers with their ONT systems. Their documentation typically outlines steps for bridging or connecting external devices to ensure proper network functionality.
I have a comparable configuration at one of the companies offering IT services. A key point is that this doesn't apply if you're using Bell Aliant (in Atlantic Canada). The information you're missing prevents connecting your own router to the Nokia ONT. First, you'll need your PPPoE credentials, which are separate from your Bell Hub login details. If you're on a business account, it's best to contact Bell to obtain these. Your user ID could be [email protected] or b1XXXXXX. Second, the Nokia ONT uses VLAN 35. You'll need to set your router's WAN interface to VLAN 35 and configure PPPoE using the credentials provided by Bell. You haven't specified the router model or desired internet speed, so adjustments may be necessary—especially if you're targeting 1Gbit symmetrical performance. PPPoE results can vary widely based on the router brand and model.
You're welcome for the details. By the way, yes, I'm using a business account in Quebec, which might be useful. To clarify, here are the choices I can consider: contact Bell and request they switch the router to bridge mode or obtain the PPPOE login to fully bypass it.
The issue stems from the Bell Hub 2000 lacking a true bridge mode. It can handle PPPoE credentials, allowing you to link your own router to a LAN port on the hub, then connect the hub directly to the Nokia ONT without dealing with double NAT or VLAN 35 setup. This isn't the best solution if the hub itself is problematic, but it avoids needing those additional configurations. Your top choice would be the alternative method that completely skips the Bell router.
Eventually, after discussions with the support and technical teams, they will update the modem to allow us to switch it into bridge mode. Once that’s done, we’ll be able to connect our own router. We just need to set it up properly for their VLAN, and thank everyone who helped.