#MODEM VS ROUTER XFINITY HOW TO#
#MODEM VS ROUTER XFINITY PC#
#MODEM VS ROUTER XFINITY FREE#

This way you won't spend money on something you might not need in the present or near future. If your provider doesn't offer gigabit plans yet, you may not want to spring for a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, since they may end up offering gigabit speeds over fiber or another type of connection. The latter is the all-around better option, so we recommend them if you're going with a gigabit plan.ĭOCSIS 3.1 modems are backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0, so even if your provider doesn't require it yet, you can use it with your plan. Some providers have offered 1Gbps plans over DOCSIS 3.0, while others now require a DOCSIS 3.1 modem. Most consumers won't see speeds that high right now, but in the future, they could. For years, the standard has been DOCSIS 3.0, though many ISPs now require a DOCSIS 3.1 modem if you're adding a new one to your plan.ĭOCSIS 3.0's highest possible speed is 1Gbps, also known as “Gigabit internet.' However, DOCSIS 3.1 maxes out at a whopping 10Gbps. The maximum speed of your modem is dependent on the Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification ( DOCSIS), a telecommunications standard used to provide internet access over a cable modem. So it's important to compare the modem's specs to your internet plan before you buy. Conversely, if you pay for a super-fast internet package but buy a cheap modem, you may not be getting those advertised speeds. Just like routers, more expensive modems provide faster speeds-as long as you have a fast enough plan with your ISP.

#MODEM VS ROUTER XFINITY HOW TO#

Most will list compatible modems on their website (here's how to check for Comcast (Opens in a new window), Cox (Opens in a new window), and Spectrum (Opens in a new window).) If you aren't sure what you're allowed to do, check your ISP's website, or give customer service a call to see if it's possible to use your own modem.

Telephony modems aren't widely available for sale-a quick search yields expensive products with outdated technology-so you're most likely better off renting. If you bundle your home phone service with your internet plan, you'll need a modem that has a phone port. If you have DSL or fiber, you can't use a cable modem they use special equipment you have to rent or purchase from your ISP. In addition, some ISPs may not even let you buy your own modem. And again, if your ISP includes the cost of a modem in your package pricing, you won't save any money by purchasing your own. Plus, you don't have to worry about compatibility or replacing the unit yourself if something goes wrong as your ISP can just swap it out for you. You can trade it in when it becomes obsolete or if it stops working. Buying both devices will bring up the cost of upgrading, but you will still be better off in the long run-especially if you need a mesh Wi-Fi system. That means if you wish to buy your own modem, you will also need to purchase a wireless router. Just be sure your cable company actually stops charging you the rental fee, since they've been known to 'forget' in the past (Opens in a new window).įor anyone currently using a modem/router combo unit from your ISP, we generally recommend keeping these two devices separate. Sure, you may pay $50-$100 upfront, but you will have recouped the cost of those fees within a year, and will then start saving $10 a month. If you are allowed the option to use your own modem, you could save between $60 and $120 per year by buying one instead of renting it from your ISP.

#MODEM VS ROUTER XFINITY FREE#

Some providers say they provide a free modem in certain bundles, but they usually charge an extra Wi-Fi service fee if you use a modem/router combo unit (like Spectrum, pictured above).

How to Set Up Two-Factor AuthenticationĬheck your monthly bill for a rental fee Comcast, Cox, Optimum, and Spectrum all add a charge, depending on your plan.

#MODEM VS ROUTER XFINITY PC#

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