[RANT] So, yesterday, I spent 4+ hours on the phone with the TS folks at Eastlink (who bought out our local Coast Cable a couple of years ago) because my cable modem kept dropping its connection and then resyncing. During this time, I was told (repeatedly) that I couldn't possibly have a fixed IP address, that I couldn't keep a fixed IP address, and that there was absolutely nothing wrong with my modem. We even ended up with a "supervisor" who ultimately hung up on me.
So, I called their SALES department, and asked to bump up to the next speed level ($10/mo). No problem, you can keep your fixed IP address, and oh, you won't have to change the modem. Wrong answer. OK, how about we go up two levels, for $20/mo? Oh, well, you'll need to change your modem, but yes, you can keep the fixe IP address (that I've had for 10 years since we moved here.) Great. Do it.
Tech comes out today, says yup, we can do that. We reconfigure the NEW modem to factory default, disabling the router functionality in it, put it in Bridging mode, connect everything up, and I have my IP address, thank you. Then, as he's leaving, he tells me that ALL the model of modem that we replaced have dropout problems ever since they upgraded to a pure digital network. ALL of them. But they won't change them out unless someone complains. [/RANT]
And, as we finish up, he gives me his phone number and says "any problems, just call me." HE is part of the old Coast Cable group. They were a pleasure to deal with, and when you can deal with the local people, you're in good hands.
