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BT Smart Hub
BT Home Hub v1.0
ManufacturerInventel
Technicolor
Gigaset/Sagem
Huawei
TypeWireless router
IP Phone
Released10 May 2013 (2013-05-10) (BT Home Hub 5)
Introductory price£129.99[1] (free on lease with BT Broadband)
Operating systemLinux
StorageOptional external USB drive
ConnectivityHome Hub 1.0 and 1.5

Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g)
Fast Ethernet
USB 1.1
Home Hub 2.0
Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n)
Fast Ethernet
USB 2.0
Home Hub 3
Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n)
Fast Ethernet
Gigabit Ethernet
USB 2.0
Home Hub 4
Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n)
Fast Ethernet
Gigabit Ethernet
USB 2.0
Home Hub 5
Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac)
Fast Ethernet
Four Gigabit Ethernet ports
One USB 2.0 connector
Smart Hub 1 and 2
Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac)
Fast Ethernet
Four Gigabit Ethernet ports

One USB 3.0 connector
DimensionsHome Hub 2.0
18.2 cm (7.2 in) (h)
17.5 cm (6.9 in) (w)
8.8 cm (3.5 in) (d)

Home Hub 3
11.0 cm (4.3 in) (h)
18.5 cm (7.3 in) (w)
4.0 cm (1.6 in) (d)
Home Hub 4
11.6 cm (4.6 in) (h)
23.6 cm (9.3 in) (w)
3.1 cm (1.2 in) (d)[2]

Home Hub 5
11.6 cm (4.6 in) (h)
23.6 cm (9.3 in) (w)
3.1 cm (1.2 in) (d)[2]
Weight301g (BT Home Hub 5)[2]

The BT Smart Hub (formerly BT Home Hub) is a family of wireless residential gateway router modems distributed by BT for use with their own products and services and those of wholesale resellers (i.e. LLUs) but not with other Internet services. Since v 5, Home/Smart Hubs support the faster Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard, in addition to the 802.11b/g/n standards. All models of the Home Hub prior to Home Hub 3 support VoIP Internet telephony via BT's Broadband Talk service, and are compatible with DECT telephone handsets. Since the Home Hub 4, all models have been dual band (i.e. both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz).

The BT Home Hub works with the now defunct[3] BT Fusion service and with the BT Vision video on demand service.[4] The BT Home Hub 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 devices connect to the Internet using a standard ADSL connection. The BT Home Hub 3 and 4 models support PPPoA for ADSL and PPPoE for VDSL2, in conjunction with an Openreach-provided VDSL2 modem to support BT's FTTC network (BT Infinity). Version 5 of the Home Hub, released in August 2013, includes a VDSL2 modem for fibre-optic connections. New firmware is pushed out to Home Hubs connected to the Internet automatically by BT.

The Home Hub 5 was followed on 20 June 2016 by the Smart Hub, a further development of the Home Hub, internally referred to as "Home Hub 6".[5] It has more WiFi antennas than its predecessor. It supports Wave 2 802.11ac WiFi, found on review to be 50% faster than non-Wave 2.[6] The Smart Hub was subsequently replaced with the Smart Hub 2 (Home Hub 6DX).

History

[edit]

Prior to release of the Home Hub (2004–2005), BT offered a product based on the 2Wire 1800HG, and manufactured by 2Wire. This was described as the "BT Wireless Hub 1800HG", or in some documentation as the "BT Wireless Home Hub 1800". This provided one USB connection, four Ethernet ports and Wi-Fi 802.11b or 802.11g wireless connection. A total of ten devices in any combination of these was supported.[7]

The Home Hub 3B was manufactured by Huawei and also supports ADSL2+. The Home Hub 3B is powered by a highly integrated Broadcom BCM6361 System-on-a-chip (SoC). The BCM6361 has a 400 MHz dual MIPS32 core processor as well as an integrated DSL Analog Front End (AFE) and line driver, gigabit Ethernet switch controller and 802.11 Wi-Fi transceiver.[8]

Features

[edit]

The BT Home Hub 2.0 was a combined wireless router and phone. It supports the 802.11b/g/n wireless networking standards, and the WEP and WPA security protocols.[9] It supports many of BT's services such as BT Fusion, BT Vision and BT Broadband Anywhere. It can also be used as a VOIP phone through BT Broadband Talk.

The BT Home Hub 3 incorporated WPS functionality, seen on other routers, which enables the user to connect to their encrypted network by the use of a "one touch" button, and also includes "smart wireless technology", which automatically chooses the wireless channel to give the strongest possible wireless signal.[10] WPS has since been (temporarily) disabled by firmware updates[11] due to security issues with the standard.

The BT Home Hub supports port forwarding.[12]

The BT Home Hub versions 3, 4 and 5 may be used for access to files stored on an attached USB stick - USB 2.0 is supported. The server by default has the address File://192.168.1.254 and is available to the entire network.[13]

The BT Smart Hub (initially branded Home Hub 6) upgraded the wifi provision to Wave 2 of the 802.11ac specification, and increased the number of antennae for improved MIMO.

The BT Ultra Smart Hub appeared visually similar to the Smart Hub, but featured a G.fast capable modem and included a BS6312 socket which subscribers to BT Digital Voice can use to attach an analogue telephone. Digital Voice launched in January 2020 as the replacement for analogue voice service, which was planned to be turned off by 2025.

The BT Smart Hub 2 provided the same technical features as the Ultra Smart Hub in a redesigned body, as well as supporting BT's "Complete Wifi" mesh product.

Hub Phone

[edit]

The BT Hub Phone is an optional handset that can be bought to work in conjunction with the BT Home Hub 1, 1.5, and 2.0. It calls using the BT Broadband Talk service, and may sit in a dock in the front of the Home Hub or be used on its own stand. It uses Hi-def sound technology when calls between Hub Phones are made. A DECT telephone may be used instead.

With each BT Home Hub released up to 2.0, a new phone model was made to accompany it:

  • BT Home Hub 1.0: was supplied with the BT Hub Phone 1010
  • BT Home Hub 1.5: was supplied with the BT Hub Phone 1020 (The only difference between the 1010 and the 1020 was the lack of the colour screen and supporting features on the 1020.)
  • BT Home Hub 2.0: was supplied with the BT Hub Phone 2.1
  • The BT Home Hub 3 and 4 do not work with the BT Broadband Talk service or DECT telephones.[14] After 29 January 2011, BT Broadband Talk was no longer provided as part of BT's broadband packages.

The phones are only partially compatible with newer or older versions of the hub, able to make and receive calls, but with the loss of features including call waiting, call transfer, internal calls, phonebook, call lists and Hi-def sound.[15]

Design

[edit]

As of May 2019 the following versions of the BT Home/Smart Hub had been released:

  • Version 0.5: grey (no Hub Phone was available, not technically a Home Hub but rather BT Fusion Hub)
  • Version 1.0: white (matching Hub Phone was available)
  • Version 1.5: white or black (matching Hub Phone was available)
  • Version 2.0: black (matching black Hub Phone was available)
  • Version 3.0: black (Hub Phones and DECT phones are not compatible) released on 29 January 2011.
  • Version 4.0: black (Hub Phones and DECT phones are not compatible) released on 10 May 2013.
  • Version 5.0 (HH5A/5B): black, released in mid-October 2013
  • Smart Hub (Home Hub 6A /6B), mid-2016
  • Smart Hub 2 (Home Hub 6DX), early 2019[16]

There were two different versions of the BT Home Hub 2.0: v2.0A (2.0 Type A), manufactured by Thomson, and v2.0B (2.0 Type B), manufactured by Gigaset Communications (now Sagem Communications, Sagem having acquired Gigaset's broadband business in July 2009). Whilst the looks and functionality appear to be identical, the Home Hub 2.0A has been plagued with problems relating to poorly tested firmware upgrades which, amongst other problems, cause the Home Hub 2.0A to restart when uploading files using the wireless connection.

There are also two versions of the BT Home Hub 3: v3A (by Gigaset, now Sagem) and v3B, (Huawei).

The BT Home Hub can only be used with the BT Total Broadband package without modification; the 1.0, 1.5, 2A, 2B and 3A versions can be unlocked.[17] The BT Home Hub configuration software is compatible with both Macintosh and Windows operating systems, although use of this is optional and computers without the BT software will still be able to connect to the Hub and browse the Internet normally.

The 4th generation of the BT Home Hub was released on 10 May 2013. It has been built with a smart dual band technology, making it unique amongst other UK-based ISP provided routers.[citation needed] The Home Hub 4 was supplied free of charge to new customers, with a £35 charge to existing customers. It has intelligent power management technology which monitors the hub functions and puts them individually into power-save mode when not in use. There two variants of the Hub 4, Type A and B.

The 5th generation Home Hub was released in mid-October 2013 and is an upgrade to the Home Hub 4, with Gigabit Ethernet connections, 802.11ac Wi-Fi (Wave 1) and an integrated VDSL modem.[18] Customers upgrading from ADSL Broadband pay only a delivery charge; existing Broadband customers pay a £45 upgrade charge. There are two variants of the Hub 5, Type A with Lantiq chipset (ECI), and Type B with Broadcom. It is possible to replace the firmware of the Hub 5 Type A (and the identical 'Plusnet Hub One' and 'BT Business Hub 5' Type A) with OpenWrt, unlocking it from BT and providing the features of OpenWrt.[19] In April 2018, scripts for modifying the stock firmware of a BT Hub 5 Type A to enable SSH access, were published on the GitHub repository;[20] this enables access to the native OpenRG command-line interface.

Models and technical specifications

[edit]
The rear of the circuit board from a BT Home Hub 3.0 Type A

The BT Home Hub package includes:[21]

A USB lead was provided with the Home Hub 1 only.

Spec BT Home Hub 1.0/1.5[22] BT Home Hub 2.0[22] BT Home Hub 3[22] BT Home Hub 4[22] BT Home Hub 5 BT Smart Hub BT Smart Hub 2
Modem ADSL2+ ADSL2+ ADSL2+ (PPPoE is also supported in firmware for VDSL2[23]) ADSL2+[24] and VDSL2 ADSL2+ and VDSL2 ADSL2+, VDSL2, G.fast
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g 802.11 b/g/n 802.11 b/g/n (now with "Smart Wireless", explained above) 2.4 GHz: 802.11n dual-stream 2×2 MIMO. Back compatible with 802.11 b/g.
5 GHz: 802.11n dual-stream 2×2 MIMO. Back compatible with 802.11a.[2]		 2.4 GHz: 802.11 b/g/n 2×2 MIMO
5 GHz: 802.11 a/n/ac 3×3 MIMO[25] (802.11ac Wave 1)		 2.4 GHz: 802.11 b/g/n/ac 3×3 MIMO
5 GHz: 802.11 a/n/ac 4×4 MIMO (802.11ac Wave 2)		 2.4 GHz: 802.11 b/g/n/ac 3×3 MIMO
5 GHz: 802.11 a/n/ac 4×4 MIMO (802.11ac Wave 2)
Wireless
Security		 WEP and WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK/RADIUS All previous features but now with WPS (temporarily disabled in firmware updates[11]) 2.4 GHz: WPA & WPA2 (default), WPA, WPA2 and WEP 64/40
5 GHz: WPA2[2]		 WPA (2.4 GHz only), WPA2, WPS
Ports 2× Ethernet 10/100 Mbit/s sockets
1× USB 1.1 socket
2× RJ11 (broadband in and phone)		 4× 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet sockets (RJ45)
1× USB (for network drives)
1x Broadband in (RJ11)
1× Telephone socket		 3× 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet sockets (RJ45)
1× 10/100/1000 Mbit/s GigE Ethernet socket (RJ45)
1× USB socket (now enabled for use)
1× BT Infinity in (RJ45)
1× ADSL Broadband in (RJ11)		 4× 10/100/1000 Mbit/s GigE Ethernet socket (RJ45)
1× USB socket
1× BT Infinity in (RJ45)
1× VDSL Broadband in (RJ11)		 4x 10/100/1000 Mbit/s GigE Ethernet sockets (RJ45)
1x USB 2.0 socket
1x VDSL Broadband in (RJ11)		 4x 10/100/1000 Mbit/s GigE Ethernet sockets (RJ45)
1x USB 2.0 socket
1x VDSL Broadband in (RJ11)
1× Telephone socket
Dimensions
(w × d × h)		 19.5 × 3.9 × 22.5 cm 17.5 × 8.8 × 18.2 cm 18.5 × 4 × 11 cm 23.6 × 3.1 × 11.6 cm[2]
Software 6.2.6.E or 6.2.6.H[26] 8.1.H.U (Type A), 4.7.5.1.83.3.37 (Type B)[26] 4.7.5.1.83.8.94.1.37 (Type A), V100R001C01B036SP05_L_B (Type B)[26] 4.7.5.1.83.8.130.1.26 (Type A), FW:V0.07.01.0910-BT (Type B)[26] 4.7.5.1.83.8.236.1.2 (Type A), V0.07.03.814 (Type B)[26] SG4B1000B540, SG4B1000E016, SG4B1000E020, SG4B1000E077, SG4B1000E079, SG4B1000E081 (Type A)

Reported issues

[edit]

The security of older BT Home Hub has been questioned[27][28][29]

In May 2017, it was reported that many BT Smart Hub customers were suffering problems with the router constantly rebooting and being unable to maintain a reliable internet connection.[30]

In May 2021, it was reported that the "BT Smart Hub 2 router [was] causing connection issues between their wifi-enabled devices". [31]

The telecom giant's router operates using two different wireless frequencies: 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz. Users were complaining that any devices not linked to the same frequency, such as a phone and a speaker, were refusing to communicate with each other.

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

BT Smart Hub

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The BT Smart Hub is a series of wireless routers developed by BT Group plc, a leading British telecommunications provider, to serve as the primary gateway for residential services in the . These devices integrate , router, and access point functionalities, supporting connection types such as , VDSL2 (FTTC), G.fast, and full fibre (FTTP) to deliver to multiple home devices via wired Ethernet or wireless networks. Launched in 2016 as a rebranding and upgrade from the earlier BT Home Hub line, the original model emphasized enhanced home coverage and performance for modern households. Key features across the series include dual-band 5 (802.11ac) operation on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, with the original BT Smart Hub equipped with seven internal antennas for broader signal reach, automatic smart channel selection to minimize interference, and built-in filters to reduce mobile network disruptions. It also provides four ports for wired connections, a USB 2.0 port for basic storage sharing, and access to the Hub Manager interface at 192.168.1.254 for user customization of settings like and guest networks. The BT Smart Hub 2, released in November , builds on this foundation with a redesigned , integrated support for BT's Complete system using Wi-Fi Disc extenders, and compatibility with ultrafast speeds up to 900 Mbps or higher on full fibre lines. As of 2025, the Smart Hub 2 remains the standard router supplied to new BT broadband customers, offering reliable performance for streaming, gaming, and smart home integration while adhering to UK and EU regulatory standards for radio equipment and energy efficiency. It features LED status indicators for quick troubleshooting, WPS for simple device pairing, and integration with the My BT app for remote management of Wi-Fi settings and usage monitoring. The series has evolved to address growing demands for multi-device connectivity, with ongoing firmware updates enhancing security features like WPA3 encryption support where applicable.

Overview

Description

The BT Smart Hub is a branded family of wireless router modems distributed by BT Group plc, primarily designed to deliver internet services to residential customers in the . These devices integrate modem functionality to support various technologies, including (DSL) and very-high-bit-rate DSL (VDSL) for copper-based connections, as well as fibre-to-the-curb (FTTC) and full fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) deployments through compatibility with infrastructure. In addition to , the hubs facilitate distribution across homes using dual-band wireless standards, enabling seamless connectivity for multiple devices such as smartphones, laptops, and smart home appliances. A core aspect of the BT Smart Hub's design is its support for integrated telephony services, including Voice over (VoIP) and Digital Voice, which allow BT customers to make and receive calls over their broadband connection without traditional analogue phone lines. This includes optional compatibility with DECT cordless phones via built-in base stations on select models, ensuring reliable voice communication even during power outages with battery backup options. The hubs serve as the central networking hub for BT's broadband ecosystem, providing features like , guest networks, and device prioritization to optimize home usage. The BT Smart Hub brand emerged in 2016 as a and evolution of the preceding BT Home Hub series, with the initial model (internally known as Home Hub 6) launched to emphasize enhanced smart home integration and superior performance. This shift highlighted BT's focus on future-proofing the device for emerging connected home technologies, building on the Home Hub's legacy while introducing improvements in signal strength and multi-device handling. As of 2025, the BT Smart Hub remains the standard router provided to new BT activations, with the Smart Hub 2 model being the primary variant supplied to customers across DSL, fibre, and full fibre services. BT's consumer divisions, encompassing BT, , and Plusnet, serve millions of subscribers who rely on these hubs for their primary and voice connectivity.

Compatibility and Deployment

The BT Smart Hub integrates seamlessly with BT's diverse infrastructure, supporting ADSL2+, VDSL2, G.fast, and FTTP connections to accommodate varying service levels from traditional copper-based to full fibre deployments. In FTTP scenarios, the hub connects directly to the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) via its Ethernet WAN port, enabling operation in a dedicated full fibre mode that can be activated through the device settings for optimal performance. As the standard residential gateway for BT Broadband, Full Fibre, and Digital Voice services, the Smart Hub is automatically provisioned upon installation, with the network configuring connectivity and features like voice over IP without manual intervention beyond basic physical setup. This plug-and-play approach ensures quick activation, typically within minutes of powering on and connecting to the line or ONT, making it the default equipment for new and upgraded customer installations. The hub supports connectivity for up to 64 devices simultaneously, with a limit of approximately 32 per band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz SSIDs), facilitating robust performance in multi-device households. It further integrates with BT's Smart Home ecosystem through features like Complete for extended coverage and compatibility with digital voice handsets, enhanced by ongoing group-level convergence efforts following deepened BT-EE operational alignments in recent years. Setup is user-friendly via the My BT app for mobile guidance or the web interface at 192.168.1.254 for advanced management, allowing straightforward configuration of networks and services post-deployment.

History

Origins and Early Development

The origins of the BT Smart Hub trace back to the early 2000s, when BT began providing broadband access to UK households primarily through standalone ADSL modems and basic routers. In June 2006, BT launched the first BT Home Hub, manufactured by Inventel, which integrated an ADSL modem, wireless router, and basic networking features into a single device, marking a significant step in simplifying home broadband deployment. This model, often referred to as Home Hub 1.0 and later updated to 1.5, supported 802.11g Wi-Fi and introduced combined modem-router functionality to millions of BT customers, facilitating the widespread adoption of always-on internet connections in the UK. The product line evolved with the release of the BT Home Hub 2.0 in June 2008, which expanded capabilities to include (VoIP) telephony and DECT cordless phone support, allowing users to make calls over the broadband connection without a separate adapter. This version also upgraded to 802.11n Wi-Fi for improved speed and range, added four Ethernet ports, and incorporated energy-saving modes, reflecting BT's focus on multifunctional home gateways amid growing demand for converged services. By the early , BT shifted toward more customized in-house designs, partnering with manufacturers like and Sagemcom to enhance reliability and performance, moving away from off-the-shelf hardware to better align with UK-specific broadband standards. In 2011, the BT Home Hub 3 debuted in February, introducing support for VDSL2 connections via PPPoE (in conjunction with an external for fibre-to-the-cabinet services) and advanced 802.11n with "Smart Wireless" technology that automatically selected optimal channels to minimize interference. This model emphasized energy efficiency, using 33% less power than its predecessor while supporting up to 80 Mbps download speeds on compatible lines. This was followed by the Home Hub 4 in May 2013, which added dual-band 802.11n for better performance on connections. The evolution culminated in the BT Home Hub 5, launched in late 2013, which integrated a built-in VDSL2 and pioneered 802.11ac in BT's lineup for faster dual-band performance, laying the groundwork for the "smart" branding as connected devices proliferated. The to BT Smart Hub occurred in 2016 to emphasize intelligent features.

Launch and Subsequent Updates

The BT Smart Hub was officially launched on 20 June 2016 as the successor to the BT Home Hub 5 (internally referred to as Home Hub 6), introducing dual-band capabilities with seven internal antennas for enhanced coverage and an accompanying for simplified network management. This router marked a significant upgrade in BT's lineup, focusing on improved signal strength and user-friendly controls to support the growing demand for reliable home . In November 2018, BT introduced the Smart Hub 2, incorporating Wave 2 802.11ac technology for faster wireless speeds and compatibility with the new Complete Wi-Fi mesh system using dedicated discs to extend coverage. This model built on the original's foundation while adding support for higher bandwidth demands. In January 2018, BT also announced the Ultrafast Smart Hub (Smart Hub X) variant, optimized for G.fast ultrafast broadband services up to 330 Mbps. The Smart Hub 2 and variants supported the rollout of BT Digital Voice in 2020, enabling VoIP functionality over fibre connections via an integrated phone port. Firmware updates for the Smart Hub series have continued to enhance functionality and , with notable releases including version v0.26.03.01286-BT in early 2021 that improved integration for better whole-home coverage. By 2024, subsequent updates ensured compliance with the UK's Product and Infrastructure (PSTI) Act, which mandates minimum cybersecurity standards for connected devices, including bans on default passwords and requirements for vulnerability reporting; BT committed to ongoing support to meet these regulations through at least 2025. Following the integration between BT and its sister brand after their merger, developments in 2024 included the launch of 's "EE One" converged fixed-mobile services and the Wi-Fi 7-compatible Smart Hub Pro for Home Broadband customers, enabling enhanced management and bundled offerings. This promoted a more cohesive experience across BT Group's consumer offerings for migrating customers.

Design

Physical Characteristics

The BT Smart Hub series features a sleek, modern design intended to integrate seamlessly into home settings, marking a departure from the bulkier white and gray aesthetics of earlier BT Home Hub models. The original BT Smart Hub, launched in , adopts a compact yet expanded form factor compared to its predecessor, with a surface area approximately twice as large while remaining slim enough to pass through standard letterboxes. This , developed by an award-winning team, emphasizes a polished exterior often praised for its contemporary appeal among ISP-provided routers. Both the 2016 Smart Hub and its 2018 successor, the Smart Hub 2, utilize a chassis for durability and lightweight construction, housing internal components including ventilation for thermal management. The front panel includes a prominent LED indicator that changes color to reflect connection status—such as blue for active —and can be dimmed or disabled via settings for reduced in living spaces. The Smart Hub 2 retains a similar profile to the original, measuring 175 mm in width, 88 mm in depth, and 182 mm in height, with a weight of approximately 1 kg, and supports optional wall-mounting for flexible placement. A key physical element across generations is the integration of seven internal antennas—typically configured as three for the 2.4 GHz band and four for the 5 GHz band—to enable omnidirectional signal distribution, providing robust coverage throughout average-sized residences. This contributes to the devices' enhanced range over prior models, supporting effective wireless performance without external protrusions that could compromise the streamlined aesthetic.

Layout and Controls

The BT Smart Hub devices feature a practical layout designed for ease of use and cable organization, with LED indicators positioned on the front panel to provide at-a-glance status information and all ports and controls located on the rear or sides to facilitate tidy installations. This arrangement allows for straightforward wired connections while keeping the front view minimalistic. Key ports include four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports for connecting devices via wired networks, a WAN port configured as RJ11 for DSL connections or Ethernet for FTTP setups, a USB 2.0 port enabling storage sharing or device charging, and a single FXS RJ11 port on VoIP-capable models for telephony support. Rear placement of these ports promotes efficient cable management, reducing clutter in home environments. Controls consist of a WPS button on the side for quick wireless device pairing, a pinhole factory reset button accessible with a paperclip for restoring default settings, and a power switch on the rear to turn the device on or off. The front-facing LED indicators use multi-color coding to denote status: steady blue for a successful broadband connection, steady green during startup, flashing or steady orange for connection attempts or power-saving mode, steady red for detected issues, and flashing purple or other variants for specific problems like unplugged cables or mobile network fallback. On the Smart Hub 2, these LEDs incorporate additional indicators for , phone, and optional Hybrid Connect accessory status, enhancing diagnostic capabilities.
LED IndicatorColor/StateMeaning
Broadband/PowerSteady BlueConnected and working normally
StartupSteady GreenInitializing
ConnectionFlashing OrangeEstablishing broadband link
Issue/No InternetSteady OrangeWorking but not connected to internet
ProblemSteady RedError detected
Broadband CableFlashing PurpleCable not connected
Hybrid ConnectSteady PurpleConnected to backup
WPSFlashing BluePairing active
WPSFlashing RedPairing failed
Wall-mount brackets have been available as accessories since the 2018 Smart Hub 2 release, allowing vertical or horizontal installation for space-saving setups.

Features

Wireless and Connectivity Options

The BT Smart Hub supports dual-band 5 (802.11ac) connectivity, operating on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies to provide flexible wireless access for home networks. This standard enables combined theoretical speeds of up to 2.2 Gbps, with up to 450 Mbps available on the 2.4 GHz band for broader coverage and 1733 Mbps on the 5 GHz band for higher-speed, shorter-range connections. The Smart Hub 2 variant incorporates Wave 2 technology with MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output), allowing simultaneous data transmission to multiple devices, which improves performance in households with many connected gadgets. Firmware updates have introduced support for WPA3 encryption on compatible devices. Key wireless features include band steering, which automatically directs compatible devices to the optimal frequency band based on signal strength and device capabilities, enhancing overall network efficiency. Users can create a dedicated guest via the hub's settings or the My BT app, isolating visitor access from the main network to improve security without compromising speed. are integrated and managed through the Easy Setup wizard in the My BT app, enabling content filtering, time limits, and device-specific restrictions on access. The hub also supports with BT Smart Discs (part of the Complete system), which extend coverage using a dedicated 5 GHz backhaul for seamless handoff between nodes. For connectivity protocols, the BT Smart Hub supports a configurable dual-stack configuration, ensuring compatibility with modern addressing while maintaining for legacy services. On DSL connections, it utilizes PPPoE or PPPoA encapsulation to authenticate and route traffic, supporting / modems built into the device. For FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) deployments, it handles dynamic IP assignment via PPPoE, facilitating high-speed connections up to gigabit levels. As of 2025, the BT Smart Hub remains certified for Wi-Fi 5 standards and does not include native (802.11ax) support, though ongoing updates have optimized signal strength and interference mitigation for better performance in urban environments with high device density.

Integrated Services and Accessories

The BT Smart Hub integrates capabilities through DECT handsets designed specifically for its ecosystem, enabling cordless phone functionality over connections. It supports registration of up to five compatible DECT handsets, such as those in the BT Digital Voice series, providing features including high-definition sound, display, and integrated services. Complementing these telephony options is BT's Digital Voice service, a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) solution launched in March 2020 as a direct replacement for traditional (PSTN) landlines. This service transmits calls over the broadband connection provided by the Smart Hub, offering enhanced call quality and features like call blocking, but it requires compatible hardware such as the Smart Hub 2 or later models. For users on G.fast-enabled lines, the Ultra Smart Hub ensures full compatibility, facilitating a seamless transition from analogue systems amid the UK's broader PSTN phase-out. To extend network coverage, the BT Smart Hub supports official accessories like the Complete Wi-Fi Discs, which form a mesh network to eliminate dead zones in larger homes. These tri-band extenders connect wirelessly to the hub and can be added in multiples—one disc typically suffices for standard households, but additional units enhance seamless roaming and signal strength across multiple floors. The system is optimized for the Smart Hub 2 and integrates via the My BT app for setup and management. Furthermore, the hub's Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) functionality allows compatibility with third-party devices, such as media servers or printers, enabling automatic discovery and network sharing without manual configuration. Users can leverage app-based controls through the My BT application to manage connected devices, including prioritization for streaming activities like viewing. This feature permits pausing on specific devices or allocating bandwidth to high-priority tasks, such as 4K video streaming, to maintain performance during peak usage.

Models and Specifications

BT Smart Hub (2016)

The BT Smart Hub (2016), also referred to as the Home Hub 6 Type A, was introduced in July 2016 as BT's primary for and fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) services. Manufactured by Arcadyan, it succeeded the Home Hub 5 series and emphasized enhanced coverage through seven internal antennas, aiming to deliver stronger signals across multi-room homes without extenders. The device integrates a DSL supporting ADSL2+ and VDSL2 standards, with maximum download speeds of up to 80 Mbps on FTTC connections. At its core, the router employs the BCM63137 dual-core chipset operating at 1 GHz, paired with 256 MB of and 256 MB of SLC NAND flash memory for efficient processing and storage of and configurations. This hardware setup enables stable routing for typical household networks, including support for IPv4 and protocols. Additional components include a BCM6303 for DSL operations and Skyworks RF front-ends for wireless signal amplification. Wireless capabilities are based on the 802.11ac standard, featuring 3x3:3 configuration on the 2.4 GHz band (theoretical maximum of 450 Mbps) and 4x4:4 on the 5 GHz band (theoretical maximum of 1,733 Mbps), powered by a BCM4366 chip for the 5 GHz radio. Wired connectivity includes four 10/100/1000 Mbps LAN ports and a single USB 2.0 port for sharing storage or printers. The integrated DSL connects directly to the phone line via an RJ11 port, eliminating the need for a separate . Power requirements are met by a 12 VDC, 1.5 A external using a barrel connector, with average consumption around 10-11 W during typical operation and lower in idle mode (approximately 7 W). The unit measures 195 × 39 × 225 mm and weighs 530 g, designed for upright placement with ventilation slots for heat dissipation. Initial releases, running 2.6.36, prioritized connection reliability and basic feature stability over advanced performance optimizations.

BT Smart Hub 2 (2018)

The BT Smart Hub 2, model GRV9517UAC34-A-SA, was released in November 2018 as BT's upgraded router, serving as the standard device for all new contracts as of 2025. It supports multiple technologies, including ADSL2+, VDSL2, G.fast, and FTTP via full fibre connections up to 1 Gbps, enabling compatibility with ultrafast services. The hardware is powered by a BCM63138 dual-core processor running at 1 GHz, paired with 256 MB of RAM and 256 MB of NAND flash storage for efficient handling of home networking tasks. This model advances from the 2016 BT Smart Hub by introducing full support and enhanced performance. The subsystem employs 802.11ac Wave 2 standards, with a 4x4:4 configuration on the 5 GHz band and 3x3:3 on the 2.4 GHz band, delivering theoretical combined speeds of up to 2.2 Gbps (AC2200 class). It includes four LAN ports for wired connections and one USB 2.0 port for peripheral integration, such as storage devices. Additional specifications emphasize reliability and coverage, with seven internal antennas positioned to optimize signal distribution throughout the home and a built-in to maintain thermal stability during extended operation. Power consumption averages 14.1 W during normal use, with a no-load draw of just 0.04 W, contributing to energy efficiency.

Specialized Variants

The BT Ultrafast Smart Hub, introduced in 2018 as a specialized variant of the Smart Hub 2, features an integrated G.fast capable of delivering download speeds up to 330 Mbps over existing lines for ultrafast services. This model includes a dedicated FXS for connecting analogue phones, enabling VoIP functionality through BT's Digital Voice service, which supports the migration from traditional landline telephony. It maintains compatibility with the standard Smart Hub 2's wireless capabilities while prioritizing high-speed symmetric connections for advanced fibre-to-the-cabinet deployments. The BT 4G Mini Hub, launched in 2019 as part of the BT Halo service, is a portable LTE/ fallback device designed for temporary access during fixed-line outages. It incorporates a pre-installed SIM slot supporting unlimited data on the EE network, with 802.11ac providing up to 300 Mbps theoretical speeds on a single 2.4 GHz band, and includes two ports for wired connections to up to 32 devices. This compact unit, powered by a offering up to 8 hours of use, serves as a seamless without additional activation requirements. For full fibre to the premises (FTTP) installations, BT offers locked variants of the Smart Hub 2 that omit the DSL port, relying instead on a dedicated WAN input connected to the optical network terminal (ONT). These configurations, such as the Type A , ensure optimized performance for gigabit-speed services by bypassing copper-based modems entirely. Additionally, BT provides wall-plug style adapters, including the Digital Voice Adapter, for compact installations where space is limited, allowing direct integration of legacy phone handsets into VoIP setups without a full hub. As of 2025, the Ultrafast Smart Hub variant fully supports BT's Digital Voice platform in preparation for the PSTN switch-off scheduled for completion by January 2027, while retaining for legacy copper lines through its hybrid design. This ensures uninterrupted during the transition to all-IP networks.

Support and Issues

Lifecycle and Maintenance

BT provides defined support periods for its Smart Hub models, ensuring ongoing maintenance during the active lifecycle. The original BT Smart Hub, released in March 2016, receives a minimum of 11 years of support, extending until March 2027. Similarly, the BT Smart Hub 2, launched in November 2018, is supported for at least 10 years, with coverage ending in May 2028. These timelines, outlined in BT's September 2025 product support policy, include commitments to address security and functionality. Maintenance for BT Smart Hubs relies on automatic over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates, which are delivered periodically to enhance security and performance without user intervention. These updates occur when the device is connected to the internet and powered on, focusing on patches for vulnerabilities; for instance, firmware enhancements in 2024 enabled WPA3 Personal transition mode to improve Wi-Fi encryption compatibility. During the support period, BT guarantees fixes for critical security issues, aligning with broader device management practices. BT's policies emphasize compliance with the UK's Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act, effective from April 29, 2024, which mandates secure default settings and clear support duration disclosures for consumer connectable products like routers. For end-of-life devices, BT operates recycling programs that allow customers to return old units via prepaid packaging, promoting environmental responsibility through refurbishment or disposal. As of 2025, BT recommends upgrading from the original Smart Hub to the Smart Hub 2 for Full Fibre connections exceeding 900Mbps, offering free replacements to eligible existing customers during broadband upgrades.

Reported Problems

The BT Home Hub, predecessor to the Smart Hub series, faced significant security vulnerabilities shortly after its 2007 launch, including a critical backdoor that allowed remote attackers to gain full administrator control over affected routers without authentication. This flaw, affecting approximately two million homes, stemmed from misconfigured remote access features in the Thomson/Alcatel SpeedTouch 7G-based device and was patched by BT via a update in October 2007. In 2017, early BT Smart Hub models experienced frequent reboot loops and connectivity disruptions, often triggered by instability or hardware stress, leading users to report endless restart cycles that interrupted service for hours. These issues were commonly resolved through targeted updates, restoring normal operation for most affected devices. The BT Smart Hub 2 encountered a widespread bug in April 2021, where dual-band conflicts prevented devices on the 2.4 GHz band from communicating with those on the 5 GHz band, causing intermittent disruptions in home networks, particularly for smart home integrations like systems. Reported by the as affecting thousands of customers, the problem was linked to version v0.26.03.01286 and resolved via an rolled out over several weeks, which restored cross-band functionality. By 2025, the Smart Hub 2's lack of (802.11ax) support has drawn criticism for limiting wireless speeds on high-bandwidth full-fibre plans, capping practical throughput at Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) levels despite capable wired connections exceeding 900 Mbps. Users have also reported overheating concerns when units are placed in enclosed spaces, with surface temperatures reaching up to 41°C under load—deemed normal by BT but potentially exacerbating performance drops if ventilation is inadequate. Additionally, compatibility glitches arise with non-BT Wi-Fi extenders, such as or third-party mesh systems, often due to mismatched band steering or protocols, leading to unstable extensions and requiring users to opt for BT's proprietary Complete Wi-Fi discs for reliable integration.

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