Freebox Ultra: France’s 8Gbps Fiber Internet Package Reviewed

France’s Free has launched the Freebox Ultra, a high-end fiber internet package designed for households with fiber optic connections. Offering speeds up to 8Gbps, the Freebox Ultra aims to provide a comprehensive internet experience, including streaming services and advanced hardware features.

What is the Freebox Ultra?

The Freebox Ultra is a fiber internet package from French ISP Free, built around an 8Gbit fiber router. It’s designed specifically for fiber connections and includes a range of features, such as built-in Linux VMs, an NVMe SSD slot, 4x 2.5Gbit Ethernet ports, and WiFi 7 compatibility. Iliad

Key Features and Specifications

• Internet Speed: Up to 8Gbps download and upload speeds.
• WiFi: 7th generation WiFi protocol with backwards compatibility and a WiFi repeater option.
• TV Channels: Access to 340 television channels.
• Streaming Services: Includes unlimited access to Disney+, Netflix, and Prime Video, as well as access to HBO Max for 3 months and Paramount+ for 1 month.
• Hardware: Qualcomm Pro 820 chipset, NVMe SSD slot, 4x 2.5Gbit Ethernet ports.

Pricing and Availability

The Freebox Ultra is currently available for €49.99 per month for one year, inclusive of all services. Iliad. Installation is free, with a technician handling the physical connection and configuration.

Security Considerations

Recent discussions have raised concerns about the Freebox Ultra’s IPv6 security. Specifically, users have noted that opening a single port towards a server inside the network requires disabling the IPv6 firewall entirely, potentially exposing all devices on the local network. Reddit This has prompted calls for Free to address this vulnerability and implement more granular IPv6 firewall controls, as offered by competitors like Orange Livebox. Reddit

Comparison with Alternatives

Even as Free has been a pioneer in IPv6 adoption in Europe, the current implementation of IPv6 security in the Freebox Ultra has been criticized. Orange Livebox, a competitor, allows for more specific IPv6 firewall rule configuration. Reddit

Conclusion

The Freebox Ultra presents a compelling option for users seeking high-speed fiber internet with a comprehensive package of streaming services. However, potential customers should be aware of the reported IPv6 security concerns and consider whether the convenience of the package outweighs the potential risks. As technology evolves, it will be crucial for Free to address these security vulnerabilities to maintain user trust and provide a truly secure internet experience.