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The Freebox is an ADSL-VDSL-FTTH modem and a set-top box that the French Internet service provider named Free (part of the Iliad group) provides to its DSL-FTTH subscribers.

Its main use is as a high-end fixed and wireless modem (802.11g MIMO), but it also allows Free to offer additional services over ADSL, such as IPTV including high definition (1080p), Video recording with timeshifting capabilities, digital radio and VoIP telephone service via one RJ-11 connector (the first version came with 2 such jacks but only one was ever activated).

The Freebox is provided free to the subscribers, its value being 190 Euros, according to the operator. It is delivered with a remote control, a multimedia box equipped with a 250 GB hard drive, and accessories (cables and filters). At the end of Q2 2005, more than 1.1 million subscribers were equipped with the Freebox.[1] According to company official's results publication, the 2 million level of Freeboxes were reached in September 2006.

V6 generation, Freebox Révolution

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The sixth generation device is called the Freebox Révolution or V6 (Version 6). It was launched in early 2011. It is composed of a pair of devices: the ADSL modem/router and the IPTV set top box/media player. The boxes were designed by Philippe Starck.

The Freebox Server on top and the Freebox Player

The Freebox Server device

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The Freebox server is a DSL modem, a router, a Wi-Fi hot spot, a NAS (250 GB hard drive), a DECT base with up to 8 connected DECT phone sets, and a digital video recorder for TNT also known as DVB-T and IPTV. As the firmware is updated, its functionalities increase. Most notably:

  • An external hard drive can be connected to its USB and/or eSATA port. However, some TV channels cannot be recorded to an external hard drive due to copyright policy limitations. Such limitations do not apply to channels recorded from TNT.
  • The video formats supported are quite wide in range including mp4, H264, mp2, mkv, avi and others. Some formats are not supported though firmware updates may increase the number of readable file formats.
  • The server automatically detects local network file shares through UPnP and can read videos from any computer on the local network.
  • The server's hard drive is available from the local network to Macintosh, Linux, and Windows computers. It can be made available from the WAN.
  • IPTV is available in real-time to any computer on the local network, if the bandwidth is sufficient and the number of simultaneous channels does not exceed 2. However, some channels are not available (most of those that cannot be recorded on an external hard drive).
  • The DSL modem router can be configured either as an Ethernet router or a simple DSL modem (bridge mode).
  • The server handles 3 Wi-Fi networks: a private Wi-Fi network (possibly hidden) and a so-called "FreeWifi" network which creates a hotspot and allows any other Freebox customer in proximity to connect to the Internet, after entering their Free user name and password, and a hidden network dedicated to IPTV for the Freebox HD (v5) video box if you choose to link this via Wi-Fi.
  • The server can be managed through its built-in Web server. Also, TV recordings can be managed from the WAN.
  • Because of the changes in the hardware and capabilities, the monthly fee (initially €29.99 including the XDSL line) is now only for the services, a separate cost of €6 is added for XDSL line access, free if you have ADSL over an active POTS (monthly fee €16), but this increase includes modifications in the services fee (see below). It now includes:
    • Free calls to any mobile phone in France.
    • Calls to landline phones in France and 104 countries, as was already included before.
    • Free calls to any phone in France from any Internet connection worldwide.
    • Renting the Freebox Revolution Server and its TV box.
    • IPTV is now an option (€1.99) so people who are not eligible for such services (i.e. their home is too far away from the DSLAM) do not pay for it, but, as a legal twist, after an increase in VAT in order to reduce the basis of taxes for artistic creation.
  • The server can act as a DECT base station for up to 8 DECT handsets.
  • The server supports SIP for VoIP phone calls. It allows subscribers to use their smartphone or a dedicated VoIP phone to make calls at Freebox rates instead of using the cellular network.
  • The server can use an optical fiber network where available.
  • The server is now compatible with Apple's AirPlay and Time Machine technologies (firmware 1.1.0, August 2011).
  • A catch-up TV service which covers 33 channels over the past 7 days. This service is proposed in high quality compared to its internet-based counterpart.

The Freebox Player

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The Freebox Player is the set-top box part of the "Freebox Revolution" offer. It is connected to the Freebox Server via PLC or by a direct Ethernet cable if both devices are close enough. It is possible to rent another Freebox Player if one wants to connect another TV set in another room.

The Freebox Player device has:

  • One Blu-ray/DVD player (Blu-ray playback requires HDMI connection) and an optical sound output.
  • One USB (on the front) and one eSata plug to connect hard drives (or a joystick or keyboard for the USB part).
  • One DVB-T plug. By contrast with TV over DSL, DNV programs can be recorded to the Freebox Server or to a local hard drive with no restriction about accessing it from a computer.
  • One remote control. By contrast with most concurrent devices, the remote control uses Zigbee (standardized power saving low rate low power radio wave) instead of infrared.
  • The Freebox player can be controlled from a smartphone or a computer, or an iPad app.
  • Every external device connected to the Freebox player is available to that device only but the devices connected to the Freebox Server are available to every Freebox player connected.
  • The player can access Internet and e-mail with no computer connected, using either the remote control (which includes gyroscopic control) or from a USB keyboard (not included).
  • Games are available from the Free-Store. A USB gamepad is included.
  • You can plug in a USB memory stick with photos or music files and watch/play them.

Serving Files to the Freebox Player

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The Freebox Player can access audio/video files on any local computer through UPnP AV. External subtitle files (.srt) should be first be merged with the video file in Matroska format, e.g. with mkvmerge.

V5 generation

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Freebox V5 Multimedia element
Freebox V5 Network element

The Freebox version 5 was released in April 2006 and expanded the possibilities of the modem. It is now divided into two boxes connected together via high-speed Wifi MIMO or PLC: the first device provides Internet access, Wifi connection and a phone line; the second device is an IPTV set-top box, with advanced TV features like timeshifting, or video on demand. It also supports video games, either specifically designed for the Freebox or using emulation of discontinued video game systems (Master System, Game Gear, Game Boy).

The multimedia element is able to read HDTV IPTV streams and includes a Terrestrial Numerical Television demodulator, can serve as a home A/V broadcasting station, includes a 40 Gb hard drive for recording and time-shifting, and a load of A/V ports.

The Network element is an Ethernet hub and a wifi hotspot.

The two elements can be linked via Ethernet, wifi or High-Speed Networking Over the Mains.

The telephony offer via the Freebox offers various services such as free calls between Freebox subscribers and towards the fixed numbers in Metropolitan France, and also free over 100 foreign countries (USA, Canada, UK, Spain, China, India, South America, etc.).

According to Alexandre Archambault from Free, the Freebox is "nothing other than the return to the fundamentals of the DSL", whose initial objective was "to connect via a single support several types of terminals, therefore several types of services: telephone (telephony), microcomputer (Internet access), television set (television transmission, video on demand, pay per view...), hi-fi system (radios, etc.)".

Therefore, it is much more than a simple ADSL modem, which can only make the interface between a computer and the Internet. Free general conditions describe it as "an electronic instrument being used as interface between the data-processing and or audio-visual equipment of the user and the network of Free Telecom".

Technical features

[edit]
Freebox V4

The box is managed by an operating system using a derivative of the Linux kernel. It has many interfaces:

  • An Ethernet port 10/100 Mbit/s full/half duplex;
  • A USB 2.0 port;
  • An HDMI port;
  • An RJ11 jack for the ADSL connection;
  • An RJ11 jack for phone equipment (two jacks on versions 1 & 2 but only one active);
  • A SCART socket
  • A digital audio output RCA, or optical S/PDIF starting from version 3;
  • An extension port of the serial ATA standard on versions 3 and 4 and parallel ATA standard on versions 1 and 2;
  • A host USB port on version 4;

Since version 3, the Freebox can be configured to act as a router. The Freebox version 4 appeared mid-2004 and includes a chipset compatible with the ADSL 2+ standard, as well as a USB port, which will allow, in the long term, the addition of functions such as videoconferencing.

The Freebox OS uses BusyBox.

Now with the v3 (and next), it also provides a VideoLAN client in order to get the movies (in any format VLC understands) stored on the computer and watchable on TV through a playlist selector. This functionality is named Freeplayer.

In the same way, the Freebox (v3 and upper) is able to broadcast TV channels to one or more computers.

References

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Freebox

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Freebox is a brand of and devices developed and provided by Free, a major French telecommunications company and subsidiary of the Iliad Group, to deliver integrated triple-play services encompassing high-speed , (VoIP) telephony, and (IPTV) to residential subscribers. Launched in 2002, the original Freebox pioneered affordable bundled offerings in at €29.99 per month, becoming the first integrated device to combine DSL modem functionality with phone and TV services, thereby disrupting the traditional telecom market and establishing Free as an innovator in the sector. Since its inception, the Freebox lineup has undergone successive generations, evolving from and support to fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) connectivity, with models incorporating advanced features like multi-gigabit Ethernet ports, 4K UHD streaming, and cloud-based storage. Key milestones include the 2010 Freebox , which introduced enhanced multimedia capabilities, and the 2018 Freebox Delta that added 4K video on demand and high-fidelity audio integration. More recent innovations feature Wi-Fi 7 compatibility for ultra-fast wireless performance, making Free the first major European ISP to deploy it across a broad range of plans in 2024, alongside optional mobile data boosters and access to over 300 TV channels including premium content from partners like and Disney+. As of 2025, prominent models include the entry-level Freebox Pop S, providing up to 5 Gbit/s download speeds over with 7 and bundled mobile options starting at €9.99 monthly for €24.99 per month; the mid-tier Freebox Ultra Essentiel at €49.99 per month after initial pricing, emphasizing symmetric 8 Gbit/s connectivity; and the top-end Freebox Ultra, which adds premium entertainment features like sound and extended storage for €59.99 monthly. These devices support Free's expansive network, now available to nearly 39 million French homes (as of October 2025), and include 24/7 , underscoring the Freebox's role as a cornerstone of France's competitive landscape.

Background

Overview

The Freebox is a combined , , and FTTH modem/router along with an IPTV , provided at no additional hardware cost to subscribers of Free, the French internet service provider and of the Iliad Group. It serves as the central gateway for delivering bundled triple-play services, integrating high-speed with voice-over-IP (VoIP) and capabilities. Core functionalities include symmetric fiber-optic speeds up to 8 Gbit/s on the latest models, unlimited calls to fixed lines in over 110 destinations via VoIP, and IPTV services featuring more than 340 television channels, video-on-demand libraries from partners like and Disney+, and built-in recording options through the Free TV app. These features enable seamless access to live broadcasting, replay content, and multimedia streaming directly on connected televisions. The Freebox evolved from a single integrated unit in its early iterations to a dual-box —consisting of a dedicated server for networking and storage, paired with a separate player for media playback—beginning with the Freebox Révolution launch in December 2010. By late 2025, over 7.6 million Freebox units were in active use across , positioning it as a dominant force in the domestic triple-play market. A distinctive element of the Freebox ecosystem is its incorporation of open-source software components, such as firmware elements and APIs, which support community-developed applications and custom integrations through the Freebox OS platform.

Provider and Market Role

Free, operating as a subsidiary of the Iliad Group founded by entrepreneur Xavier Niel in 1999, entered the French telecommunications market as an internet service provider focused on low-cost access. In October 2002, Free launched the Freebox, France's first ADSL broadband offer bundled with a complimentary modem and priced at €29.99 per month for unlimited access, intentionally designed to challenge the prevailing high costs and rental fees imposed by incumbents like France Télécom. This strategy positioned Free as a disruptive force, emphasizing unbundled local loop access to bypass traditional infrastructure dependencies. The Freebox introduction ignited intense price competition in the French sector, compelling rivals to lower tariffs and expand offerings, which accelerated national penetration from under 5% in to over 20% by . By the end of , Free had captured roughly 20% of the market, serving more than 2 million subscribers amid this competitive surge. The V1 Freebox's launch exemplified this disruption by enabling affordable triple-play services (, , and TV), fostering broader consumer adoption. Regulatory oversight by ARCEP ensured Free's compliance with unbundling mandates, allowing deployment via over 15,000 unbundled connection points on existing networks. For fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) expansion, Free leverages wholesale partnerships with operators like and Orange to access their infrastructures in underserved areas, complementing its proprietary deployments. Freebox innovations have shaped multi-service bundling, notably pioneering quadruple-play in 2012 by integrating mobile services post the launch, offering combined , , fixed-line , and cellular plans. As of November 2025, basic Freebox plans start at €29.99 per month, maintaining Free's emphasis on accessible pricing. Early market challenges included controversies over peer-to-peer (P2P) traffic prioritization, where Free faced criticism for potential throttling; these were addressed through 2008 regulatory commitments aligning with emerging guidelines, ensuring non-discriminatory traffic handling.

Generations

Early Generations (V1-V4)

The Freebox V1, launched in October 2002, served as the inaugural model in the series, functioning primarily as an modem integrated with basic , , and services. It featured a downstream ADSL speed of 512 kbps, two RJ11 ports for telephone connectivity including VoIP support, and an Ethernet port for delivering basic IPTV with around 75 standard-definition channels via decoding. Lacking built-in or storage capabilities, it relied on a single-box with Peritel and RCA outputs for video and audio, emphasizing simplicity for early adoption in . The V2, introduced in February 2003, offered minor enhancements to the V1, focusing on improved stability in VoIP management and a more reliable while retaining the core single-box architecture. It maintained the same capabilities, two RJ11 ports, Ethernet for IPTV, and Peritel/ outputs, but added a audio output to better support television audio integration without introducing or storage. These incremental updates addressed initial reliability issues reported by users, solidifying the model's role in expanding Free's subscriber base during the nascent era. By February 2004, the V3 marked a step forward with support for 2+ technology, enabling downstream speeds up to 8 Mbps, alongside an optional PCMCIA card for 802.11b connectivity at 11 Mbps and a single USB port for printer sharing. It included two RJ11 ports for VoIP, Ethernet for IPTV, optical audio output, and Peritel for video, but still omitted internal storage in its single-box form factor. This version introduced a refreshed and , catering to growing demands for options and peripheral connectivity. The V4, released in August 2004, further refined the lineup with enhanced 2+ support reaching up to 12 Mbps downstream, two USB ports, an eSATA port for external storage connectivity, and optional 802.11b/g via PCMCIA CardBus. Retaining the two RJ11 ports for VoIP, Ethernet for IPTV, optical , and Peritel outputs, it adopted the V3's external power supply while improving overall hardware scalability. Developed to leverage emerging infrastructure, the V4 represented the pinnacle of the early single-box era before the shift to dual-box designs. Across the V1 through V4 models, common features included Linux-based for managing , VoIP over RJ11 ports, and basic functionality for navigating IPTV services, all without support for high-definition content. These single-box units provided an all-in-one solution for connectivity, voice services, and , running on embedded to enable efficient multi-service operation. The early generations' single-box design, while cost-effective for initial deployment, imposed limitations on scalability, such as restricted expandability for storage or advanced networking without external add-ons, leading to their discontinuation by 2006 as the dual-box V5 model emerged to address these constraints.

V5 and Optique

The Freebox V5, launched in April 2006, marked a significant evolution in Free's product lineup by introducing a dual-box architecture designed to separate networking and multimedia functions, enhancing both internet access and television capabilities. The network box served as the primary modem and router, supporting ADSL2+ connections with download speeds up to 24 Mbps and featuring integrated MIMO Wi-Fi for 802.11b/g wireless networking, along with four Ethernet ports for wired connectivity. The multimedia box complemented this setup with a 40 GB internal hard disk drive (HDD) for storage, a DVB-T tuner for terrestrial digital broadcasts, and two USB ports for external peripherals, connected to the network box via Ethernet or powerline communication (PLC) adapters known as Freeplugs. Key innovations in the V5 included the introduction of high-definition (HD) IPTV services at 720p resolution, enabled by MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 decoding, which allowed subscribers to access enhanced video quality over IP without additional fees. This was paired with the first built-in video recording functionality directly onto the HDD, launched as a digital video recorder (DVR) feature in September 2006, permitting users to store and playback TV content, including HD broadcasts from channels like TF1 and M6 via integrated agreements. Additionally, the Freebox OS platform on the server enabled early community-developed applications and customizations, fostering user extensions for services such as file sharing and basic automation, which laid the groundwork for more advanced media features in subsequent generations. In terms of adoption, the V5 rapidly gained traction, reaching approximately 1.28 million HD Freebox subscribers by September 2007, representing about 46% of Free's total 2.77 million base at that time and reflecting strong demand for its upgrades. However, the model had notable limitations, including the 40 GB HDD's constrained capacity for extensive video libraries, the absence of Blu-ray playback support, and Wi-Fi speeds capped at 54 Mbps due to the 802.11b/g standard, which could bottleneck high-bandwidth HD streaming in multi-device households. The Freebox Optique, introduced in May 2008 as a fiber-optic variant of the V5, extended this dual-box design to support gigabit () fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) technology, delivering symmetric speeds of up to 100 Mbps for both and . It retained the same box as the V5 for consistency in TV and storage features, while the network box was upgraded to handle FTTH connectivity, with limited to 802.11b/g without enhancements. This rollout began as a pilot in , where Free invested in horizontal fiber deployment to cover key urban areas, aiming for 70% of the city by mid-2009 and marking an early step in France's FTTH expansion with commercial offers starting at €29.99 per month. The architecture emphasized the network box's role in modem and routing duties, with the multimedia box focused on IPTV streaming and recording over the high-speed link via Ethernet or PLC.

V6 Révolution

The Freebox Révolution, launched in January 2011, marked a significant evolution in Free's product lineup as a dual-box system comprising the Freebox Server and Freebox Player, designed to deliver enhanced multimedia and connectivity experiences. The Server handled connectivity supporting VDSL2 and ADSL2+ up to 28 Mbps, as well as FTTH up to 100 Mbps, integrated with a 250 GB for storage, four ports, and Wi-Fi 802.11n operating at up to 450 Mbps in 3x3 configuration. The Player functioned as a dedicated media device featuring a Blu-ray player capable of 1080p playback including 3D content, HDMI output, and support for via the AirMedia feature introduced in early updates. This setup positioned the Révolution as Free's flagship offering, emphasizing seamless integration between and home entertainment. Key unique features included an integrated (NAS) system on the Server, enabling file serving to the Player and other networked devices such as computers or mobiles, alongside automatic download capabilities for HTTP, FTP, and torrent files. The Server also incorporated a DECT Cat-IQ supporting up to eight handsets for VoIP , and an included module to improve mobile signal coverage by leveraging the connection for calls. Media functionalities were robust, with support for IPTV delivering over 400 channels, DVR recording to the NAS for time-shifted viewing, and compatibility with and UPnP protocols for streaming across devices. The Player was equipped with a gyroscopic for intuitive navigation, optical audio output for high-fidelity sound, and two USB 2.0 ports for external media playback, making the Server the central hub for all operations. Priced at €29.99 per month without additional hardware costs, the Freebox Révolution boosted Free's premium market segment by attracting subscribers seeking advanced features in a single package, with on-site assistance promised within 10 working hours. By , adoption exceeded 500,000 units, reflecting strong market reception driven by its comprehensive quadruple-play capabilities including unlimited calls to mobiles and landlines in 103 countries. Firmware updates continued to enhance the device, with version 2.0.0 released in June 2013 introducing full support, including filtering and group management, to future-proof connectivity amid growing demands.

Crystal and Mini 4K

The Freebox , launched in June 2013, represented an entry-level update to the Freebox V5 HD model, targeting budget-conscious users seeking basic , , and television services over connections. It featured a dual-box with a server unit supporting ADSL2+ speeds up to 28 Mbps, 802.11n at 300 Mbps, and four 100 Mbps Ethernet ports for wired connectivity. The player unit included 40 GB internal storage for recordings, an output for TV connection, and three USB ports for external peripherals, emphasizing simple TV access without advanced capabilities. Aimed at cost-effective usage, it provided access to over 220 TV channels, including 100 in HD, along with basic replay and VoD features, making it suitable for users prioritizing affordability over high-speed options. In March 2015, Free introduced the Mini 4K as a compact alternative, building on the V6 Révolution server architecture to offer enhanced performance for modern households. The shared server supported VDSL2 and FTTH connections up to 1 Gbps download speeds, 802.11n up to 450 Mbps, and two USB 2.0 ports for external storage expansion. The miniaturized player ran , featured 8 GB internal (expandable via USB), 2.0 for 4K UHD output with HEVC decoding, 4.0, and no built-in hard drive to maintain its slim profile. Key additions included native app integration for streaming, voice search functionality through the Android TV interface, and support for external HDDs, appealing to cord-cutters transitioning from traditional cable TV. While the Crystal catered to basic DSL users and was phased out for new entry-level subscriptions around 2016 in favor of fiber-focused models, the Mini 4K gained traction among users seeking affordable 4K-ready setups without premium features like storage or MU-MIMO . Both models prioritized accessibility, with the Mini 4K's base enabling broader app ecosystem access, though limited by the era's Wi-Fi standards lacking multi-user enhancements.

Delta V7 and One

The Freebox Delta V7 and Freebox One, both launched in December 2018, represented a significant evolution in Free's product lineup, introducing advanced fiber-optic capabilities, integrated streaming services, and smart home functionalities tailored to different user needs. The Delta V7 was positioned as a premium dual-box solution, consisting of a dedicated server and player unit, while the One offered a more compact, single-box hybrid design aimed at renters and users seeking simplicity without a separate server. Both models were bundled with a Netflix subscription at launch, marking Free's first inclusion of a major streaming service in its standard offerings. The Delta V7's server unit supported high-speed connections via FTTH (up to 8 Gbps download), xDSL, and aggregation for enhanced reliability, featuring 802.11ac tri-band MU-MIMO with speeds up to 4400 Mbps, 1 TB of RAID-configured storage for functionality, and built-in connectivity for IoT device support. Its player unit incorporated a high-fidelity sound system with audio processing and an 2.1 port for 4K HDR video output, along with three USB ports and NFC for seamless device pairing. Additional smart features included voice control integration and a home alarm system utilizing wireless sensors for intrusion detection, even during power or connection outages. The server provided a total of five Ethernet-capable ports: four Gigabit LAN ports and one SFP+ port. Priced at €49.99 per month (with an optional €10 monthly add-on for the player over 48 months, or €480 upfront), the Delta targeted users requiring robust for large households or connected ecosystems. In contrast, the Freebox One was designed as an all-in-one unit for easier installation in smaller spaces, supporting FTTH or xDSL connections up to 1 Gbps, 802.11ac dual-band with speeds up to 1200 Mbps, and four ports for wired networking. It lacked internal storage but offered external expansion via three USB ports (including one 3.0 and one e-SATA), and integrated directly into its interface for 4K streaming with Audio support. 4.1 enabled compatibility with wireless peripherals, making it ideal for renters who preferred a plug-and-play setup without managing dual components. Launched at €39.99 per month (with a promotional €29.99 rate for the first year to the initial 100,000 subscribers), the One emphasized affordability and compactness while maintaining core TV and internet features. Firmware updates for both models enhanced connectivity over time; by 2020, enhancements included support for mobile backup as part of Free's Backup Internet option, allowing automatic to cellular networks for uninterrupted service during primary line disruptions. These 2018 releases underscored Free's focus on acceleration, AI-driven assistants, and simplified designs, bridging premium performance with accessible entry points. In September 2025, Free introduced a migration option allowing existing Freebox Delta subscribers to upgrade their server from Wi-Fi 5 to Wi-Fi 6E. The option became available in the Espace Abonné starting in September 2025, with ordering possible from September 25, 2025, for a one-time fee of 49€. Eligibility required possession of the original Freebox Delta with a Wi-Fi 5 server. Subscribers could access the option via "ma Freebox" > "gestion Freebox" > "Commander un serveur WiFi 6E", after which the new server was delivered to a chosen relay point. As of February 2026, if the option is not visible in the Espace Abonné, likely reasons include that the subscriber already has the Wi-Fi 6E server version, does not meet eligibility criteria, or the migration offer has ended or been phased out after the initial rollout. Subscribers are advised to contact Free assistance to check personal eligibility and status.

Pop V8

The Freebox Pop V8, launched in July 2020, represents a mid-tier offering from Free, consisting of a triple-box setup designed to deliver balanced performance for mainstream users with enhanced home-wide coverage. The system includes the Pop Server for connectivity, the Pop Player for , and the Pop Wi-Fi Repeater for extending signal range, addressing common connectivity challenges in urban apartments and multi-room homes. Priced at €29.99 per month for the first year and €39.99 thereafter with no commitment, it targeted cost-conscious subscribers seeking reliable access without premium features. The Pop Server serves as the central hub, supporting FTTH connections with download speeds up to 5 Gbps (shared) and upload speeds up to 700 Mbps, alongside compatibility with ADSL2+ and VDSL2 for broader accessibility. It features AC 2100 Mbps with dual-band (2.4/5 GHz) MU-MIMO technology and WPA3 security for efficient multi-device handling and improved , including support for advanced modulation like 1024-QAM to boost data rates in compatible environments. Networking includes three Ethernet ports: one at 2.5 Gbps, two at 1 Gbps, enabling wired connections for high-bandwidth needs such as gaming with low-latency support. Storage is expandable via USB ports on the server, allowing users to attach external drives or for media sharing across the network. The Pop Player runs on 9, providing seamless access to streaming services with optional integration, 4K HDR via 2.0, , audio, and built-in for voice control. It includes 2 GB RAM and 16 GB internal storage, with three USB ports (including ) for peripherals like external storage or controllers, plus 5.0 for wireless audio and input devices. The design emphasizes user-friendliness, with and support for content casting. Complementing the setup, the Pop Repeater plugs directly into a standard electrical outlet to create a mesh-like extension, effectively doubling coverage for larger homes and mitigating dead zones compared to previous models like the Delta V7. This feature proved particularly valuable for urban apartment dwellers, contributing to strong adoption with over 1 million units deployed by 2022 amid growing demand in . Overall, the Pop V8 evolved from earlier fiber-focused generations by prioritizing accessible, whole-home connectivity for everyday streaming, gaming, and smart home integration.

Ultra V9

The Freebox Ultra V9, launched on January 30, 2024, by Free (a of Group), represents the ninth generation of the Freebox series and is designed as a premium triple-box system comprising a Server, Player, and for enhanced home networking. The Server supports EPON FTTH connectivity with symmetrical speeds up to 8 Gbps, facilitated by two SFP+ ports capable of 10 Gbps handling, four 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, one port, and an integrated NVMe SSD slot using PCIe 3.0 for storage upgrades. Powered by a quad-core processor and the Qualcomm Networking Pro 820 platform, it introduces full 7 support across tri-band frequencies (including 6 GHz), achieving theoretical speeds up to 6 Gbps for multiple devices simultaneously, marking it as the first French ISP router to deploy Wi-Fi 7 at scale for gigabit home networks. The low-power design emphasizes sustainability, with a customizable standby mode reducing energy consumption by up to 90%. The Player unit runs 14, supports the codec for efficient 4K and 8K streaming, and features HDMI 2.1 output for HDR10+ and /Atmos compatibility, along with integration for voice control. It includes three USB ports for media playback and connectivity, enabling access to over 280 live TV channels via the Free TV app. Advanced (QoS) mechanisms prioritize traffic for seamless 8K streaming and low-latency applications like gaming. The included extends 7 coverage using mesh technology, building on similar concepts from prior models like the Pop V8 to eliminate dead zones in larger homes. Key features include bundled Netflix Standard with ads (Full HD), alongside Disney+ and Prime Video with ads, all accessible without additional cost upon creating accounts. Priced at €49.99 per month for the first year (then €59.99 per month) on a no-contract basis, the offer targets future-proofing for high-bandwidth households. Limited edition variants, such as the December 2024 red-cased model with customizable LED lighting and a November 2025 Stranger Things-themed edition, add aesthetic appeal while maintaining core specifications. By late 2025, updates have enhanced compatibility with emerging network standards, solidifying its role in ultra-high-speed deployments.

Technical Specifications

Hardware Components

The Freebox server units function as the core modem-router components, managing and local networking while providing storage capabilities. Initial generations integrated basic modems with modest processors, such as the BCM6348 at 255 MHz in the V4 model, featuring a single USB port for connectivity. Over time, servers advanced to support fiber optics and higher performance, exemplified by the V6 Revolution's 1.2 GHz processor paired with 512 MB RAM, a 250 GB internal HDD, two USB 2.0 ports, and two eSATA ports for expanded storage. Later iterations like the Delta V7 incorporate a Marvell ARMv8 quad-core CPU, 1 TB storage via a 4x HDD array (user-upgradable), two USB ports, and one port, enabling disassembly for maintenance since the V4 era. The Ultra V9 server utilizes a Networking Pro 820 quad-core processor at 2.2 GHz, includes a dedicated slot for 2280 PCIe NVMe SSDs, and offers ports such as two SFP for fiber and local networking, four 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, one , one (20V/60W+), and a port. Build materials across generations consist primarily of ventilated plastic chassis to facilitate cooling, with power supplies evolving from 12V external adapters in early models to in recent ones; for instance, the Ultra achieves 9.9 W in Eco mode and 0.5 W in total sleep mode. Player units serve as dedicated media receivers for television and streaming, separating from the server for optimized performance. Early V5 players were compact HD decoders with and outputs but limited internal storage. The V6 Revolution player marked a shift with an CE4100 1.2 GHz CPU, 1 GB DDR3 RAM, PowerVR SGX535 GPU at 400 MHz, and support for Blu-ray playback via an integrated drive. Subsequent models like the Mini 4K employ a BCM7252 dual-core Cortex-A15 at 1.5 GHz, 2 GB RAM, 8 GB flash storage, 2.0 for 4K output, and audio support, with power consumption around 10 . The Delta V7 and Pop V8 players feature 835 or S905X2 quad-core processors at up to 1.8 GHz, 2 GB RAM, 16-32 GB flash storage, 2.1 for 4K HDR with and , audio, USB 3.0, Ethernet, microSD slots, and tuners. The Ultra V9 player includes 2 GB RAM and 16 GB storage, 2.1 for 4K HDR with and , alongside Ethernet, , USB, microSD, and ports. Like servers, players use plastic casings with ventilation, maintaining low power draw through efficient designs. Accessories enhance usability across Freebox generations, including remotes with gyroscopic motion controls introduced in V6 and continued in later models via 5.0 for intuitive navigation. DECT bases for VoIP are integrated in V6 and Delta servers, supporting cordless phones. repeaters became standard with Pop V8 and Ultra V9, featuring 7 (or earlier AC standards) for , such as the Pop's AC 1200 dual-band repeater with 1 Gbps Ethernet and ports, dimensions of 12.6 cm diameter by 4 cm height, and 280 g weight. External HDD compatibility is enabled through USB and eSATA ports from V4 onward, allowing user-added storage without voiding warranties in most cases. Power-efficient accessories include the Pocket Wi-Fi 4G hotspot, available on demand with Ultra bundles, which provides portable connectivity via Free's 4G network; the provided SIM card is exclusively usable with the supplied device.

Connectivity and Networking

The Freebox series has evolved to support a range of technologies, starting with in early models and progressing to high-speed fiber optics in later generations. Initial models like the V4 supported ADSL2+ with maximum speeds of up to 28 Mbps, suitable for basic in the mid-2000s. The V6 Révolution introduced VDSL2 compatibility, enabling speeds up to 100 Mbps over copper lines, while also accommodating FTTH for up to 1 Gbps. Subsequent models, such as the Delta V7, incorporated bonding as a fallback for xDSL connections, enhancing reliability in areas with poor fixed-line infrastructure. The Ultra V9 offers portable mobile connectivity through an on-demand Pocket Wi-Fi 4G hotspot, with the provided SIM card exclusively usable with the supplied device. The Ultra V9 represents the pinnacle, supporting FTTH with symmetrical speeds up to 8 Gbps, leveraging advanced optical modules for ultra-high bandwidth. Wi-Fi capabilities have advanced significantly across generations, reflecting broader industry standards for wireless performance. Early iterations from V3 to V5 relied on 802.11b/g, delivering theoretical speeds up to 54 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band, adequate for basic home networking but limited by interference. The V6 Révolution upgraded to 802.11n with dual-band support, achieving up to 300 Mbps through 2x2 . Later models like the Delta V7 adopted 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) tri-band configurations, reaching aggregate speeds of 4400 Mbps with MU- and for better multi-device handling. The Pop V8 introduced (with Wi-Fi 7 available in the 2025 Pop S variant), while the Ultra V9 implements Wi-Fi 7 with quad-band operation (2.4/5/6 GHz), supporting 320 MHz channels, OFDMA, and MU- for up to 6 Gbps aggregate. Ethernet port configurations have scaled with broadband demands, transitioning from to multi-gigabit options. The V4 featured four 100 Mbps Ethernet ports for wired connections, complemented by USB 2.0 ports for peripherals and an RJ11 jack for VoIP . The Révolution V6 expanded to four ports (1000 Mbps), maintaining USB 2.0 and RJ11 support for enhanced local networking. Newer generations like the Pop V8 and Ultra V9 offer 2.5 Gbps and 10 Gbps Ethernet ports respectively—such as four 2.5 Gbps LAN ports and one 10G SFP on the Ultra—along with for faster external storage and continued RJ11 VoIP integration, ensuring compatibility with high-speed wired devices. Advanced networking features enhance usability and security across models. Native support has been available since the V6 Révolution, facilitating dual-stack operation for future-proof addressing without tunneling. (QoS) mechanisms prioritize IPTV traffic to minimize buffering during high network loads, a standard in Freebox firmware for seamless streaming. VPN passthrough is supported for protocols like and PPTP, allowing secure remote access. Select models, including the V6 Révolution and Mini 4K, integrated technology for improved indoor mobile coverage using the broadband connection, though this feature is being phased out. Security includes built-in firewalls with Free's upstream at the network level, and WPA3 encryption rolled out to Pop, Delta, Révolution, and Ultra models via firmware updates for robust protection against brute-force attacks.

Software and Features

The Freebox Server operates on Freebox OS, a Linux-based operating system that incorporates open-source components and has utilized elements like since its initial generations. This OS manages core networking, storage, and functions, providing a stable foundation for the device's operations. The Player component's interface has evolved across models, transitioning to an base in later versions like the Mini 4K and beyond, overlaid with a custom Freebox OS layer for seamless integration of services. The IPTV platform delivers multi-room viewing capabilities across compatible devices, granting access to over 340 television channels (as of 2025), including all digital terrestrial channels and premium options like TV by Canal. Key features include a 7-day replay service for on-demand catch-up, as well as DVR functionality that supports recording to internal hard drives or external devices, with up to 320 hours of cloud storage in select configurations. The Free TV (formerly OQEE by Free, rebranded in October 2025) application extends this ecosystem, allowing subscribers to stream live content, replays, and recordings on smartphones, tablets, and Apple TV set-top boxes (tvOS 16.0 or later, with device region set to France and compatible with models such as Apple TV HD (4th generation) and Apple TV 4K series). Additional features encompass VoIP telephony with unlimited calls to mobile numbers in , the French overseas departments, and fixed lines in more than 110 international destinations, enhancing the quadruple-play bundle when paired with services. (NAS) and DLNA media sharing have been available since the V6 model, enabling users to stream personal media libraries to connected devices. Smart home integration includes compatibility with on Delta players for voice-controlled operations and on Pop and Ultra models for similar functionalities, such as managing TV playback and network settings. The system supports an for third-party applications, including media centers like Kodi and Plex, allowing customization of the entertainment experience. Over-the-air (OTA) updates ensure ongoing improvements and enhancements, while controls permit users to manage data usage and sharing preferences through the interface. A developer , introduced with the V5 generation, facilitates third-party integrations for advanced automation and monitoring. Unique aspects include community-developed plugins, such as the client integrated since the V3 era, which enables playback of diverse media formats stored on the device or network. This open , combined with the , fosters developer contributions and extends the Freebox's versatility beyond standard ISP hardware.

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