Monitoring User Activity On Arris Cable Modems

Monitoring user usage on an Arris cable modem can be done in several ways. One way is to log in to your router via a web browser, as most routers allow you to see what devices are connected to the network. Additionally, there are third-party software options and apps that can help monitor network traffic and data usage, though some may require a separate server to be set up. Another option is to use a program such as GlassWire, which offers a graphic view of internet usage in real time and shows what applications are using the internet and how much data has been uploaded and downloaded.

Monitor bandwidth by connected device

Monitoring bandwidth usage on an Arris cable modem can be done through various methods, each varying in complexity and cost. Here is a detailed guide on how to monitor bandwidth by connected device:

Using Third-Party Software

Third-party software options are available to monitor bandwidth usage on your Arris cable modem. For example, programs like GlassWire offer a graphic view of internet usage in real-time, including data on upload and download activity. It also identifies applications using the internet. While basic functionality is free, a paid version is required to access more advanced features, such as device connection details and alerts for new connections.

Router Settings

You can also monitor bandwidth usage by accessing your router's settings. Most routers allow you to view a list of connected devices and their respective network usage. Additionally, you can configure your router to prevent new devices from connecting, ensuring only known devices have access to your network. This can be done by changing the router password regularly and disabling the broadcast of your router's name.

Using GitHub Scripts

For Arris TG862 cable modems, a GitHub user has provided a bash script that can be used to monitor bandwidth usage. This script utilises the status page of the modem, specifically the Octets column of the Downstream table, to calculate and visualise bandwidth usage over time. The script is designed for Linux and involves creating a data source, adding a cron job for monitoring, and generating graphs to visualise usage.

Packet Sniffing

For more advanced users, packet sniffing can be employed to monitor network traffic. This involves setting up a device that mirrors incoming and outgoing traffic, allowing you to capture and analyse data packets. This method can be applied to wired or wireless traffic, but it is important to note that it may not work with your gateway and can be challenging to set up.

Using a Separate Server

You can also set up a separate server to monitor bandwidth usage on your network. While this option may provide more comprehensive data, it requires additional hardware and setup, which can be costly and time-consuming.

It is important to note that some Arris models, such as the BGW210-700, do not support device monitoring out of the box, and you may need to explore third-party software options or alternative methods as mentioned above.

Monitor Arris cable modem bandwidth usage from its status page

To monitor your Arris cable modem's bandwidth usage from its status page, you can follow these steps:

Firstly, you need to access the status page. This is usually found at http://192.168.100.1/cgi-bin/status_cgi. Once you're on the status page, look for the Octets column in the Downstream table. This column holds the count of octets or bytes per stream and can be used to calculate the downstream bandwidth usage during a specific period.

To monitor usage, you can use a simple bash project with rrdtool, a Linux-based tool for monitoring bandwidth usage. Here are the steps:

• Create the rrd data source with create_data_source.sh.
• Add a cron job to start the actual monitoring with arris_stats.sh.
• Use current_stats.sh to generate a graph showing bandwidth usage whenever you need it.

This method is intended for Arris cable modems that do not support SNMP out of the box but still offer the downstream octets count. It is based on the Arris TG862 model, but it may also be compatible with other models, including CM550A, CM820A, TG852G, and more.

Monitor network traffic/data usage

Monitoring network traffic and data usage on an Arris cable modem can be done through various methods, each varying in complexity and cost. Here are some detailed instructions and options to help you get started:

Using Third-Party Software:

• GlassWire: Download and install a program like GlassWire, which offers a graphic view of internet usage in real time. It also shows what applications are using the internet and provides details about data uploaded and downloaded. The basic functionality is free, but for more advanced features like device connection details and alerts for new connections, you'll need to purchase the paid version, starting at $49.
• PeakHour: This software can be used to monitor network traffic, but it requires UPnP or SNMP support, which your Arris modem might not have.

Using Router Features:

• Login to Your Router: Most routers allow you to log in through a web browser and view connected devices. You can also configure settings to prevent new devices from connecting, protecting your Wi-Fi from unknown users.
• Change Router Password: It's a good practice to periodically change your router password to enhance security and prevent unauthorized access.
• Hide Router Name: You can also configure your router to stop broadcasting its name, making it more difficult for others to identify and access your network.

Advanced Technical Methods:

• SNMP Monitoring: Some Arris modems may support SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) out of the box or through custom firmware. This allows you to monitor bandwidth usage and various network parameters.
• Packet Sniffing: You can insert a packet sniffer/capture device at specific points in your network setup to mirror and analyse network traffic. This can help identify data-intensive activities or unusual traffic patterns.
• Build a pfSense Box: Consider building a pfSense box and setting your Arris modem to passthrough mode. This provides more advanced network monitoring and traffic management options.
• Use a Separate Wireless Router: If you use a separate wireless router for all wireless traffic, you can then insert a packet sniffer between the router and the gateway to analyse wireless traffic specifically.

ISP Support:

Contact Your ISP: Reach out to your internet service provider (ISP) for assistance. They may have tools or features available to help monitor usage or identify data-intensive devices. For example, Comcast Xfinity's xfi service tracks individual device usage.

Other Tips:

• Restart Devices One by One: If you suspect a particular device is causing excessive data usage, try restarting each device one at a time to isolate the issue.
• Monitor LAN Usage: If you have multiple devices connected via LAN, consider using a program like "create_data_source.sh" mentioned in one source to monitor LAN usage and identify data-intensive activities.
• Check for Malware: Unexpected data usage spikes could be due to malware or unauthorised applications running in the background. Use antivirus software to scan your devices regularly.

Monitor broadband usage on a home network

Monitoring broadband usage on a home network can be challenging, but there are several methods and tools available. Here are some detailed instructions and suggestions to help you monitor broadband usage on an Arris cable modem:

Understanding the Issue

Firstly, it's important to understand the nature of the problem. Sudden increases in data usage can be concerning, and it's natural to want to identify the cause. In some cases, it may be a result of malware, or a single device that is downloading or uploading large amounts of data.

Router Settings

One of the first steps you can take is to log in to your router's settings via a web browser. Most routers allow you to see which devices are connected to the network. Additionally, you can configure your router to prevent new devices from connecting, ensuring that unknown users cannot access your Wi-Fi.

Third-Party Software

There are third-party software options available that can help you monitor network traffic and data usage. For example, GlassWire offers a free version that provides a graphic view of internet usage in real-time, including which applications are using the internet and how much data they are uploading and downloading.

ISP Websites

Your internet service provider (ISP) may also provide usage information. For instance, Comcast customers can log in to their Xfinity account on the website to access their usage data. This can give you an overview of your total data usage, but it may not provide device-specific information.

SNMP Monitoring

If you're comfortable with more technical solutions, you can explore SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) monitoring. This protocol can be used to monitor various aspects of a network, including data usage. However, it may require some expertise to set up and may not be supported by all routers.

Packet Sniffing

For a more advanced approach, you can try packet sniffing, which involves capturing and analysing the data packets travelling across your network. This can be done by placing a device that mirrors the network traffic to another port, allowing you to run a packet capture and inspect the data.

Other Considerations

• Change your router password regularly, and consider disabling the broadcast of your router's name.
• Be cautious when using Windows 10, as it can use a significant amount of data in the background, especially with updates.
• Be mindful of streaming services and downloads, as they can contribute significantly to data usage.

By employing a combination of these strategies, you can gain a better understanding of your broadband usage and identify any devices or applications that may be causing unexpected spikes in data consumption.

Monitor data usage on a PC

Monitoring data usage on a PC is a straightforward process and can be done in a few different ways, depending on the operating system of your computer and your preferences. Here are some methods to monitor data usage on a PC:

Using Windows Task Manager:

• Right-click on an empty space on your Windows taskbar and select "Task Manager".
• In the Task Manager window, navigate to the "App history" tab.
• You will see a list of your applications along with their data usage figures in the "Network" column, represented in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB).
• If you have a metered data connection, you may also be interested in the "Metered network" column.
• By default, the data shown in the "App history" tab is compiled over the last 30 days. You can reset this counter by selecting "Delete usage history" if you want to start tracking from a specific date.

Using Windows Settings:

• Open the Start Menu and select the gear icon to open Windows Settings.
• In the Settings window, select "Network & Internet".
• Next, select "Data usage" in the left pane.
• You will see an overview of your Wi-Fi and Ethernet usage, including the total amount of data (in MB or GB) utilised on each network over the last 30 days.
• To see a breakdown of data usage by application, select "View usage per app".
• If you want to view data spent on a different network, you can select a different option from the "Show settings for" drop-down menu.

Using Third-Party Software:

There are also third-party applications available that can help you monitor data usage on your PC. Here are some options:

• GlassWire: GlassWire is a free app available for both Android phones and Windows PCs. It allows you to monitor data usage in real time and set data usage limits or alerts. You can also use it to block specific apps from using your data.
• NetTraffic: NetTraffic is a free and lightweight tool that lets you view and analyse usage history by hour, day, month, or year.
• NetWorx: While NetWorx now has a paid subscription, you can still find and download the last freeware version (5.5.5) online. It allows you to track daily, weekly, and monthly usage, set data quotas, and export and import old data logs.

Other Options:

• Router Tracking: Your data usage can also be tracked through your router's app or logon page. Some routers provide detailed data usage per device.
• ISP Portal: Most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have online portals or apps where you can log in and monitor your data usage.

Frequently asked questions