Help - I want to limit my kids data cap

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D1023319

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#112830 22-Dec-2012 17:32

Hi

My router is a Linksys WRT54G v7 connected to Telstraclear cable via modem.
Its been a great router that has provided robust service.
FYI - my previous netgear was a piece of &^&^& with constant dropouts.

However now I have bought the kids laptops - I want to be able to limit the data cap used by each kid.
However my router doesnt have adequate access restrictions even under QoS

I have looked at firmware upgrades such as DD-WRT and Tomato - but they say they dont support the version 7 of my router.

Any ideas for work around or upgrade suggestions?

Cheers

Virgil

Dangerous Chocolate
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#736395 22-Dec-2012 18:59

Yep, get a hold of a router that does support DD-WRT, then put Gargoyle Router on it.

Easily configurable to restrict by IP address, and dhcp can be configured to always and only hand out the same IP to each device.

As you discovered, you will need to find an old WRT54G, or if you are going new I went for TPLink TL-WR1043ND which was just perfect.

Cheers

Lurking ...

tonyhughes

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#736405 22-Dec-2012 19:26

+1

Gargoyle also can deny any or all clients who try and use a manual IP different to the one allocated to their MAC.

NonprayingMantis

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#736439 22-Dec-2012 22:05

If you want to limit them as a means of discipline, then go for the above. If you just want to limit the because they keep using up your data cap then you could always switch to a much larger plan, or unlimited.
Tcl are, IMO, really stingy with data caps. All the other ISPs, orcon, slingshot, telecom,, Vodafone, have larger caps or unlimited plans which will be great for Familys who don't want to worry about their kids using up all their caps.

D1023319

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#736485 23-Dec-2012 06:27

thanks for advice.
will look at new router

FYI - just went from 20GB to 40GB.
this is first month and they have blown the cap!

really want to stay with Telstra as I like their broadband service and packages esp as we are in wgtn cable zone.

cheers