You don’t even need the fios router. It’s easier to use because it has the built in moca and also separates that network from your own.

You can however create your own moca network and connect all the boxes to that, separate the traffic from yours with a VLAn.

I try to ditch those things as much as possible but if the customer uses any of the apps from Verizon, then you’re hosed and have to use it and put your router in dmz.

Thanks.

Pretty sure they use the app.

Would the cable boxes work and get updates if I used my own mocha network created via the actiontec extender connected via ethernet to my router, in the DMZ of the Fios router? Would the apps still work? Or do you have to do other port forwarding settings etc.

You most DEFINITELY need the Fios router (if your customer has FiosTV) first in line. The set top boxes will not get necessary updates and will eventually stop working unless the fios router is first in the mix. Also if you do not have the fios router first in the mix (and the customer has FiosTV) they will get NO support from Verizon. Even if they call in about their bill!!! The best way I found to do it is to just leave the fios router in the mix first. Make sure it is factory defaulted and put your router's ip address in the DMZ. You can also set a static NAT to your router's ip address and make sure your router is on a different subnet than 192.168.1.xxx. This will open up everything to your router and you will have full support from verizon support and services.

Yes this should still work. The FiosTV boxes just need to get their IP from the Fios Router. Otherwise they will work but not update and will start to slow down then eventually not work at all

You don’t need the router, the boxes just require any internet connection. Several setups for years like this without any issue on updates, etc. But, and a big but, these customers call me for everything service related, including Verizon problems.

You’re correct about Verizon tech not supporting this install though. Not a problem when you are handling it though. Takes all of 2 seconds to plug that POS ahead of your router. When done, throw that crap back in the box.

For your situation though where the customer uses the apps, DMZ is your only choice here.

Lets say Mr Customer wants to watch the PPV fight on TV Saturday night. They have to call Verizon because they cannot order it on the STB. Verizon says they cannot help them because they can't verify the equipment in the customer's house. They need to call you to come out to plug in the Fios Router??? Why wouldn't you lust leave it in and have the system work as designed? Make the Fios router first in line and have it control the STB's and your router controls everything else. I do this on ALL my Fios Installs and have Absolutely NO issues. Verizon is happy and customer is happy

Because that modem/router is a turd with a small NAT table. Look, the way I setup my network is ONT- then my router in front, then I put that POS unit on my network just for the cable boxes/moca that it provides. In this config, they can order all the PPV they want without issue and no reason to call Verizon.

The only use case to have the verizon in front, is if they use the apps for TV because it requires the public IP to connect. My clients don't use them, so have zero issues with this setup.

I spent a lot of unpaid time years ago when Verizon first came around my area to try the best possible setups. You can look at them all here: [Link: dslreports.com]

All of these different types are based on whether Verizon will support it or not. I support my clients, Verizon does not. Pretty simple conclusion for me.

you have your way, I have mine. We both think it is the best way. You (think) you have 100% no issues. I (think) I have 100% no issues. We agree to disagree.

But just saying, The NAT table does not make a difference when it only has to handle a few clients (STB's and 1 router)

Agreed. Always good to have discussions about solutions to problems and the other ways people achieve them.

Unfortunately, the DMZ on those modem/routers isn’t always a true DMZ and are not fully accessible publicly. It’s most likely the software/firmware from Verizon causing this, but I’ve run into it plenty enough and that’s when I seeked alternatives.

Good banter and good luck!!

Ive never had an issue with Fios DMZ. It DOES fully open the to the internet. good luck to you too