[PLUG] Is there a DNS cache in the Comcast modem?

[King Beowulf]

On 09/18/2017 10:16 PM, Denis Heidtmann wrote:
> Answered by Comcast chat:
> 
> I asked the question in my opening statement.  Here is the dialog.  Your
> task is to tell me what the answer is.
> 
> Harpreet 11:40 AM Let me check
> 
> Harpreet 11:41 AM Just for the account security, May I have the complete
> service address along with the zip code ?
> ...

<ugh...the horror....>

You made a few errors in trying to resolve your recent cable modem issues:

1.  Arris TG1268T looks to be an EMTa telephony modem.  However I can't
check with Arris since that model number does not appear to exist.
Personally, I would not use anything C. provides and this avoid their
nonsense and rental fees.

2.  since you want to clear DNS, that means you cable modem is also a
wifi router?
  2a C. is very likely hosting "free" xfinity wifi service using your
bandwidth and data cap.
  2b. cable modem + router is a non-optimal performance and security
arrangement for you home network.
  2c. Are you mad? have you learned nothing on this list?

3. You are using C. VOIP service. See 2c.

I used to have one of their Arris EMTa cable modems (not a router since
still had a nice wifi router) and VOIP service.  They do not even
provide the backup battery!  I had all sorts of issues and went through
2 cable modems in <2 years.  I then smartened up:

netgear WNDR3700 gigabit 802.11abg/n 2.4 and Ghz dual band running
OpenWRT with 3 wifi SSIDs
Its getting a antique but still works well.  It might be time for one of
the new fancy AC versions, but with DD-Wrt or OpenWRT of course
(Gargoyle is another good choice based on OpenWrt).

Netgear CM600 cable modem
It is mine. The admin pw is MINE.  no wifi, just 2 ports: coax and RJ45.
 Idiot C. had to "provision" it twice and then they told me I had a
loose cable and would I like to have a tech come in and install it for
me?  Really?  I'm a freakin' service engineer for multinational
laboratory equipment manufacturer and I CAN'T FIGURE OUT A LOOSE COAX
CABLE!  <physically impossible expletive>

Ooma Telo modem and VOIP service with bluetooth dongle
Solid, cheap, has more features that C. and I sprung for premier service
for a few extra features.  The BT dongle allows me to answer my cell
using the handsets.  There are other service options as well.

I have complete control over my network and DNS cache. I DO NOT USE C.
DNS servers.  I may need to use C. as my ISP, but that does not mean
they get any more $ than necessary.  Once I year or so I call, nicely
threaten to quite and the cut my fee in 1/2 for another year.

Denis, the above may be a wee snarky, but I feel your pain.  I seriously
recommend getting your own hardware.  If you are in PDX area, I can assist.

Have fun.
Ed