Discussion de forum

Avatar de BougePasJteTue
23-03-2025

Custom subnet

Hello,

I was trying to setup my second router to be part of the same network as my Helix Router but when I tried entering the subnet 255.255.0.0, it does not let me.

I can only choose either 255.255.255.0 or 255.255.255.128 which does not work for me.

Is there a way I can choose my own subnet mask?  Via SSH or telnet maybe?

Thanks

1 Réponse

  • Hello,

    Hello!

    It sounds like you're trying to extend your home network using a second router and want to use a subnet mask of 255.255.0.0. You're encountering limitations on the subnet mask options available in the configuration interface of your Helix Router.

    Regarding accessing advanced settings like custom subnet masks via SSH or Telnet on a typical home internet service provider (ISP) supplied router like the Helix Router, the answer is highly likely no.

    Here's why:

    Limited Access: ISPs generally lock down the firmware on their provided routers to prevent users from making changes that could potentially disrupt the service or compromise security. Access via SSH or Telnet is usually disabled.
    Simplified Interface: The web-based configuration interfaces on these routers are designed for ease of use and typically only expose the most common settings. Advanced networking options like custom subnet masks are often hidden or unavailable.  e-zpassnj
    Support and Stability: Allowing users to make deep system changes could lead to instability and increased support calls, which ISPs want to avoid.
    Why your desired subnet (255.255.0.0) might not be the best approach for a typical home network extension:

    A subnet mask of 255.255.0.0 creates a very large network (65,534 possible host IP addresses). This is usually unnecessary and can even be inefficient for a typical home network with a limited number of devices.

    Best Regards