So you've gone for Plusnet broadband, and you've got a pretty new Hub Zero to get to grips with. Let's take a look at it.
Long since superseded by the PlusNet Hub One and Plusnet Hub Two, the Hub Zero used to be supplied when customers signed up for standard ADSL broadband packages from Plusnet.
Here's what it had to recommend it...
The Plusnet Hub Zero in a nutshell
The Hub Zero was definitely a step up from the old Technicolor 582. It boasted a next-generation Broadcom chipset for 'snappier performance,' and used 40% less energy than the last model.
Here's a precis of its key features:
- An ethernet cable for a direct computer connection
- A microfilter to keep your phone line clear
- A power supply to keep things running
- An internet cable to connect to the world wide web
- A setup guide to walk you through the installation process
- A handy reference card for quick troubleshooting
Design and Functionality
The Plusnet Hub Zero wasn't the flashiest router on the market, but was designed with simplicity and user-friendliness in mind.
Encased in durable white plastic, it was small enough to fit into your home setup without drawing attention.
You also had the option to let it stand on its pink feet, or mount it on the wall.
Connectivity and controls
On the back of the Hub Zero, were clearly labelled buttons and sockets, including:
- An ADSL socket for your broadband connection
- Four ethernet sockets for wired devices
- A reset button for troubleshooting
- A power socket to connect the supply
- An on/off button for easy control
- 66Mb average* speed
- No TV channels
- £0.00 Setup costs
- 24 month contract
- £25.99 per month
- 500Mb average* speed
- No TV channels
- £0.00 Setup costs
- 24 month contract
- £31.99 per month
- 900Mb average* speed
- No TV channels
- £0.00 Setup costs
- 24 month contract
- £39.99 per month
- 145Mb average* speed
- No TV channels
- £0.00 Setup costs
- 24 month contract
- £25.99 per month
- 300Mb average* speed
- No TV channels
- £0.00 Setup costs
- 24 month contract
- £29.99 per month
- 74Mb average* speed
- No TV channels
- £0.00 Setup costs
- 24 month contract
- £25.99 per month
*Average speeds are based on the download speeds of at least 50% of customers at peak time(8pm to 10pm). Speed can be affected by a range of technical and environmental factors. The speed you receive where you live may be lower than that listed above. You can check the estimated speed to your property prior to purchasing.
The front featured a row of LED lights that indicate the status of various functions like power, broadband, internet, Wi-Fi, and ethernet connections.
There was also a WPS indicator for Wi-Fi Protected Setup.
Wi-Fi Capabilities
While the Plusnet Hub Zero was a decent router for its time, it's long since been superseded.
Even around the time of its release, though, you could get better. Not last the hubs from BT and Sky, with built-in modems and 'dual-band' tech that automatically selected the cleaner of two wireless channels for more reliable Wi-Fi.
However, for standard broadband customers, the Hub Zero offers a solid, no-frills wireless connection that's easy to manage.
Additional buttons on the side of the router include the WPS button to quickly connect new devices securely and the Wi-Fi button to control your wireless network with a simple press.
Troubleshooting Made Simple
One of the key benefits of the now-retired Plusnet Hub Zero was its ease of troubleshooting.
The LED indicators on the front panel provide a clear visual representation of any connectivity issues that might arise. Whether it's a power outage, a broadband disconnect, or a Wi-Fi hiccup, you could often diagnose the problem at a glance.
When it comes to setting up and maintaining a steady internet connection, the Plusnet Hub Zero was a dependable and straightforward option.
Its energy efficiency, simple design, and user-friendly interface made it a fitting choice for those who want a hassle-free online experience.
