Improve Wi‑Fi coverage, performance, and features by using your broadband provider’s router as a modem while a separate router handles your home network.
Introduction
Many broadband providers supply a router that combines multiple functions into a single device:
- Broadband modem
- Router
- Wi‑Fi access point
- Network switch
While these devices are convenient, their wireless performance may not always meet your needs, particularly in larger homes or where many devices are connected.
A common solution is to place the broadband router into “Modem Mode” (or Router Only Mode, depending on the manufacturer) and connect a higher-performance router such as:
- ASUS
- TP-Link
- Ubiquiti
- Netgear
- Linksys
- Eero
- Google Nest Wi‑Fi
This allows the broadband device to handle the internet connection while the new router manages Wi‑Fi and home networking.
Why Use Your Own Router?
Home users often upgrade to a dedicated router to gain:
✅ Better Wi‑Fi coverage
✅ Faster wireless speeds
✅ Improved parental controls
✅ Enhanced security features
✅ VPN support
✅ Better device management
✅ Mesh Wi‑Fi compatibility
Virgin Media Hub 5 Example
The Virgin Media Hub 5 supports Modem Mode.
This is one of the most popular methods for using a third-party router with Virgin Media broadband.
Before You Start
You will need:
✅ Virgin Media Hub 5
✅ A separate Wi‑Fi router
✅ Ethernet cable
✅ Administrator access to the Virgin Media Hub (Admin username / password usually located on the base or rear of the Virgin Media router)
Step 1: Connect to the Virgin Media Hub
- Connect to the Virgin Media wifi network
- Open a browser and visit: 192.168.0.1
Step 2: Access Modem Mode Settings
Navigate to: Advanced Settings > Modem Mode
Depending on software version, menu names may vary slightly.
Step 3: Enable Modem Mode
Select: Enable Modem Mode and confirm the change.
The Virgin Media hub will now restart.
Step 4: Wait for the Restart
After rebooting:
- Wi‑Fi on the Hub is disabled.
- Routing functions are disabled.
- The Hub becomes a broadband modem only.
A purple LED is typically displayed on the front of the Hub when Modem Mode is active.
Step 5: Connect Your New Router
Using an Ethernet cable: Connect your Virgin Media Hub (usually ethernet port 1 on the back) to your new Wifi router WAN port.
Step 6: Power On your new Wifi Router
Allow your own router to start.
Most modern routers will automatically detect the broadband connection.
Step 7: Configure Your Wi‑Fi
Using your new router:
- Create Wi‑Fi network names
- Configure passwords
- Enable additional security features
- Configure guest networks if required
Your new router now manages all wireless devices.
How to Access the Virgin Media Hub Afterwards
Once Modem Mode is enabled, the Hub no longer uses IP address 192.168.0.1 – Instead, management is typically available at: 192.168.100.1
This allows you to check connection information while remaining in Modem Mode.
Key Takeaway
Broadband provider routers are designed to be simple and convenient, but they are not always the best solution for wireless performance. Placing a Virgin Media Hub 5 into Modem Mode allows you to use a dedicated router or mesh Wi‑Fi system that can provide better coverage, improved performance, enhanced security, and more advanced networking features while still using your existing Virgin Media broadband connection.