This document describes the BT Home Hub 4, a device designed to provide broadband internet access and related services. It functions as a central point for connecting various devices in a home to the internet, offering both wired and wireless connectivity options. The manual provides comprehensive information on setting up the Hub, connecting devices, troubleshooting common issues, and accessing additional BT services.
The primary function of the BT Home Hub 4 is to act as a broadband router, enabling internet access throughout your home. It facilitates this by connecting to your master phone socket via a broadband cable and then distributing the internet signal to your devices. The Hub supports wireless connections, allowing smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other Wi-Fi enabled devices to access the internet without physical cables. It also provides wired connections for devices that require a more stable or faster connection, such as desktop computers or gaming consoles.
Usage Features:
The BT Home Hub 4 is designed for ease of use, with a straightforward setup process.
- Initial Setup: To begin, you connect the Hub to your master phone socket using the provided broadband cable and a filter (if you have a single socket; double sockets may not require a filter). The power supply is then connected, and the Hub is switched on using the power button on its back. The Hub will then go through a self-test, indicated by flashing coloured lights. A steady blue light signifies that the broadband is ready for use. If the light doesn't turn blue, the manual guides you through initial troubleshooting steps.
- Wireless Connection: Connecting devices wirelessly is a key feature. The Hub has a unique wireless network name (SSID) and password/key, which are provided on the device itself. You can manually enter these details on your devices to connect. Alternatively, if your device supports Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), you can press the WPS button on the Hub to establish an automatic connection, simplifying the process for compatible devices. The manual includes step-by-step instructions for connecting various operating systems, including Apple iOS, Android, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Mac OS X.
- Smart Setup: The Hub incorporates a "Smart Setup" feature designed to help you get your broadband and extra services up and running on all your devices. When you open a web browser on a newly connected device, Smart Setup will guide you through the necessary configurations. This ensures that all your devices are properly set up to use the Hub's services.
- Dual-Band Wireless: The BT Home Hub 4 utilizes smart dual-band wireless technology, operating on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. This allows the Hub to connect devices to the best available signal, depending on the device's capabilities and its proximity to the Hub. The 5GHz band generally offers faster speeds, while the 2.4GHz band provides a wider range. Most newer devices will automatically connect to the 5GHz frequency, but the Hub intelligently manages this to optimize performance. For older computers that may not support 5GHz, a dual-band wireless dongle can be purchased to take advantage of the faster frequency.
- My BT Portal: The manual highlights the "My BT" online portal (bt.com/mybt), which serves as a central hub for managing your BT services. Through this portal, you can view and manage your bills, payments, products, and inclusive extras. This includes accessing BT Cloud for backing up files, BT Net Protect Plus for online security, BT SmartTalk App for making calls, BT Sport for watching sports content, BT Wi-fi for accessing hotspots, BT Parental Controls for online safety, BT Yahoo Mail for email services, and BT Tech Experts for technical support.
- Online Security and Parental Controls: The Hub supports BT Parental Controls, a free service included with BT broadband packages, to help keep families safe online. Additionally, BT NetProtect Plus offers protection against viruses, spyware, phishing scams, and other internet threats, available with some packages or for a monthly fee.
- BT SmartTalk App: For users with a BT calling plan, the BT SmartTalk app allows you to add your calling plan to your smartphone. This enables you to make calls at landline rates from your mobile, even when abroad, and utilize your landline allowance.
- BT Broadband Desktop Help: A free tool is available to help users sort out common broadband connection and email problems, specifically for PCs.
Maintenance Features:
The manual provides guidance on maintaining the Hub's performance and troubleshooting issues.
- Initial Optimization Period: After installation, the Hub may take up to three days to establish the fastest and most reliable broadband connection for your line. During this period, the Hub might restart, and your broadband could be interrupted. This is normal, and it's recommended to leave the Hub connected and turned on to allow it to settle and receive software updates.
- Troubleshooting Guide: A detailed troubleshooting section helps users diagnose and resolve common connection problems. It includes a table that explains the meaning of different coloured lights on the Hub (green, blue, off, orange, red) and outlines corresponding actions to take.
- Power Light Status: The power light indicates the Hub's operational status. Green or flashing green means the Hub is starting up. Blue means it's working fine. Off indicates a power issue. Orange or red lights signal a problem.
- Broadband Light Status: The broadband light (if not blue) can indicate connection issues. Orange suggests you're connected but your account might not be active. Red means you've tried to log in with incorrect credentials. Flashing red indicates a problem with your broadband line.
- Wireless Light Status: The wireless light can also provide diagnostic information. Orange means wireless security has been switched off for one or both channels. Flashing orange indicates the Hub is in WPS automatic connection mode.
- Restart and Reset: For many issues, the manual suggests simple steps like restarting the Hub by pressing and holding the Restart button until the light turns orange. If problems persist, a factory reset can be performed by pressing the recessed Reset button with a paper clip. This restores the Hub's password to its factory setting.
- Checking Cables and Filters: Users are advised to regularly check that all power and broadband cables are securely plugged in and that filters are correctly fitted (if required).
- Contacting Support: If self-troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, the manual provides contact information for BT support, including phone numbers and online chat. It also directs users to the BT Community Forum for peer-to-peer assistance. When calling support, it's recommended to be next to your Hub with a PC or device for easier diagnosis.
- Recycling Information: The manual notes that the Hub is electrical/electronic equipment and should not be disposed of in normal rubbish bins. Instructions for recycling the Hub and other BT equipment are provided on the back of the Hub's box.
- Accessibility: BT offers the leaflet in Braille, large print, and audio CD formats, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility.
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