Sky want me to disable firewall on Vodafone router

[AntonyM]

My Sky box keeps disconnecting from the router several times a day.

Sky have gone through several other changes which haven't fixed the problem. Now they are saying that I should turn off the firewall on the Vodafone router.

But I can't see how to do that. I have switched to Expert mode but still can't see anything to do with firewalls.

[AntonyM]

Sorry,  I  have just found it on the Internet tab.

It gives a warning about vulnerability to security breaches. How risky is it to turn it off in reality?

[Ripshod]

In reality it should be okay for a short test if the box stays connected, but as the time can't be predicted make sure any connected devices have adequate protection or disconnect them. The firewall should be re-enabled as soon as the test is over, and personally I'd reset the router too.

[Jayach]

As @Ripshod says, if its just for a test, O.K. but there is no way you should run without a firewall, long term.

Also there must be many Vodafone users, who are also using Sky boxes (is this Q or HD?) but don't have to disable their firewalls, so Sky are obviously just "clutching at straws".

Is your connection to the Sky box wired or Wi-Fi?

[AntonyM]

@Jayach, it is a Sky Q box. It keeps disconnecting from the router usually once a day, but some days up to 4 times a day.

Sky support haven't found any fix yet, so yes, they do seem to be clutching at straws.

The connection is wi-fi as the router is not in the same room as the Sky Q box.

[Jayach]

If it's disconnecting occasionally, it's obviously working the rest of the time, so it's unlikely the firewall is the cause.

Sky Q really likes to run with it's own router, and often struggles with other makes.

Have you seen this post on the Sky forum, there seems to be some good advice there.

My SKY Q box is connected to another broadband pro... | Sky Community

[AntonyM]

That sounds like exactly my problem.

However, getting an ethernet cable from one floor to another might be tricky (I doubt my partner wants me drilling holes in the floor/ceiling!!)

[Jayach]

A possible solution could be to use powerline adapters.

[AntonyM]

Thank you so much. I bought a pair of powerline adapters. And the Sky box has not had a problem since Saturday morning! Let's hope it stays working.