Firmware Upgrades for WiFi modems?

I have the DOCSYS 3.0 NetGear N450 CG3000Dv2 from Cox and was wondering how firmware upgrades are done, since it's a Cox modem and not one that I bought. With my previous self-bought modems & routers, I did my own firmware/software upgrades on them to keep on top of the latest security/bug fixes. But with the NetGear N450 from Cox, I'm not sure if I can do upgrades or if they're automagically pushed to the modem by Cox. The support pages on Cox are so idiot-proofed & simple, that there's almost no useful information for tech types who like to know this stuff and be hands-on with their hardware. How are upgrades handled? Does Cox push them automatically or do we have to request them from time to time? Also, NetGear offers their Genie software suite with their consumer modems. Is that recommended with the Cox version of their modems or not? Thank you.

Responses

Health_Edge

Valued Contributor III

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4.2K Messages

There is no way for the user to update the firmware on any Cox gateway. Usually, most firmware updates are pushed out automatically, after a certain amount of time in testing. A Cox moderator or employee may be able to push a newer on to you, but only from their end.

As for the Netgenie software, from what little experience I have with it, it seemed effective, although as a rule, I find alot of those kinds of programs can be bloated and take up system resources. Maybe look at the programs features and see if its anything you need? Otherwise just use normal Windows wireless Zero client IMO.

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Neuro2015

New Contributor III

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37 Messages

Health Edge said:
There is no way for the user to update the firmware on any Cox gateway. Usually, most firmware updates are pushed out automatically, after a certain amount of time in testing. A Cox moderator or employee may be able to push a newer on to you, but only from their end.

As for the Netgenie software, from what little experience I have with it, it seemed effective, although as a rule, I find alot of those kinds of programs can be bloated and take up system resources. Maybe look at the programs features and see if its anything you need? Otherwise just use normal Windows wireless Zero client IMO.

@Health Edge Thanks for the answers Health. I also agree that the NetGear Genie software is bloated, as well as almost useless and buggy. I stopped using it before getting your new modem, but was just wondering if there were any limitations to using their software. I've also noticed in the modem's configuration/setup software that there seem to be certain limitations, compared to using a store-bought modem. Was this done to keep Cox customers from doing something stupid with their modem's security or boffing things up? Also, I've noticed that there's no way to set up a temporary guest Wi-Fi access through the modem/router config software, unlike store-bought modems. Is this normal for the Cox modems? Thank you.

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ChrisL

Former Moderator

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7.1K Messages

@Neuro2015

Indeed the Cox gateways are intended to be a simple to install home network solution that works out of the box. With that being said all configuration options have been disabled for the most part except for the ability to change the primary wireless settings. If you are wanting a more customize-able router a separate modem/router solution may suit your needs better.

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