Got another e-mail today. Looks like I'm in!
I've been doing a bit of research on what they do with the router while it's in use. The router itself uses a custom SK firmware, which seems to be a pain to install your own firmware on top for the router (IE: Tomato ) Basically it does a couple of line tests daily, and then send that info to SK which then send that info to your ISP to help improve the connection. No personal info is gathered through the router. Since they are working with the FCC on this project, I feel a little bit better using a router with someone else's custom firmware on top of it.
Now remember, if you are accepted into this program, SK has the right to request the router itself back, and from what I've been reading, after 3 years then the router is yours, but who in there right mind would ask for a 3 year old router back at that time? lol I'm sure in that time, there should be a decent amount of network changes to where they may upgrade the routers to industry standards.
Anyways, here is the e-mail I received.
Join SamKnows & the FCC's campaign.
Help shape the future of American broadband!
Dear Will
Thank you for volunteering to participate in the SamKnows Broadband Performance Measurement Study, in association with the FCC.
We now have all your relevant ISP details and you're just the kind of person we're looking for. So welcome to the SamKnows Broadband Community!
If you would like to confirm your participation in the study, please read and agree to the study’s Terms & Conditions.
We've said it before, and we really do mean it – thank you for your support. Through your participation in this study, you can play a part in changing the face of American broadband.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us at
community@samknows.com.
Kind regards,
Sam.
So, I accepted the ToS, and the Router is being sent within 7-10 business days.