ISP SuddenLink Won't Update Firmware C6300 AC1750

I've had a similar response from Suddenlink, for what that's worth. I'm currently on the current firmware for the CM700 though, but I only know that because I inquired, and after escalating me to upper tier support (regular tech was helpful with setup, but told me they had changed their policy and would not allow the reps to flash firmware at all on new system, I'm guessing liability issues came up) I was informed that I would need to get Netgear firmware updates from the manufacturer directly.

Previously, I had motorola surfboards, one was a model that didn't sell in high quantities, and the Suddenlink techs always flashed firmware with no problems. I realize that Suddenlink isn't responsible for modems users purchase outside of their service, but there has to be at least an option for manual updating, with a waiver of understanding the risk, etc.

If this is only a Suddenlink problem, I guess it may not be worth the hassle for Netgear, but I'm assuming other cable companies are putting them in the same situation, and it will cost netgear business in the long run. I'm the kind of guy that just recently switched to netgear, and am happy with the hardware otherwise, but will switch back to other brands if I find out that Suddenlink is pushing firmware updates, or the manufacturer has manual update methods. I probably set up 15 surfboard modems because tech is a bit of a hobby and I have friends and coworkers in multiple cities and ISP's.

I tend to buy routers often, and was just starting to switch to Netgear. But I need an option to update firmware on my modems, at least at my own risk, and if I switch modem brands because another manufacturer and suddenlink have update methods, I know I'll switch over to some of the newer open source routers.

While Netgear didn't create this problem, it's in their best interest to lean on/work with Suddenlink to solve it. Especially considering the growth of Suddenlink's gigabit networks and the huge market of regular users that will getting on board to upgrade internet packages and purchase equipment for high speed media streaming.