Newb simple questions

[drewmerc]

i have an SB5101 with version 1.1 Revision 39 of haxorware.
i purchased this modem premoded to learn.

premod never a good start

i understand somewhat but i want to know how HFC macs work.
i know we need working macs to get online and i know how to sniff for them.
i know i cant use macs from my town.

not town, you cant use macs from you node (not the same thing as a town)

Do i need to use a mac from my same isp?
i have time Warner in nyc.

yes same isp

the isp in my area is time warner and the isp in the bronx is cablevision
if i scan for macs in my area from my sb5101 those macs are a mix of isps or are they all time warner?

all twc (so thats what twc means time warner cable... often wondered that)

or does any mac work?

no

and how do i set witch isp to use. (ex. i want to try and use my sb5101 in the bronx) will it work with the mac i already have? what settings would i have to change on haxorware?

settings are isp dependant hell node dependant in this day and age (meaning settings to get you online can change from node to node) only way to know what works is try everything

Whats a cert?

Code:

A Certificate is a method used to distribute a public key and other information about a server and the organization who is responsible for it. Certificates can be digitally signed by a Certificate Authority or CA. A CA is a trusted third party that has confirmed that the information contained in the certificate is accurate.

the answer to 42 of life's problems (not had my morning brew yet)