Re: Need recommendations on security

anon wrote:
>> "Mike Easter"

>>> Well, the cable modem folks would kinda like to be able to update
>>> cable modem firmware in the wee hours of the morning whenever they
>>> feel like it and they rather prefer that the cable modem be on all
>>> the time.

> Interesting aside re the 'always on' modem and router.
>
> There have been several times that the always on router or modem
> would quit responding - called the ISP and they said that they SHOULD
> be turned off then on periodically (once every month or so, same as
> an always on windows computer needs to be reset periodically.)
>
> Seems the programs that make them work become corrupted over time and
> have to be reloaded from the firmware.

The business of using reset for my cable modem or my switch router is
part of my strategy for troubleshooting when something isn't working
right, depending upon where I've isolated the problem.

My cable modem has a 'tedious' little tiny hole which conceals the reset
mechanism, so it is easier to pull its plug and powerdown than push the
reset with an unfolded large paperclip.

My switchrouter I also use the powerdown technique with its little
external powersupply -- and on one occasion so far its firmware has
become corrupt and needed to be flashed.  Flashing a switchrouter's
firmware is kinda 'cute' and a different technique than flashing a BIOS
rom.

But I've never heard a tech advise routinely resetting either one.
Reset it if it needs resetting, not if it doesn't, I would say.


-- 
Mike Easter
kibitzer, not SC admin