Modems for cable internet: The 3 Best Cable Modems of 2023

Best Cable Modem 2023: Get the Fastest Cable Internet Speeds

By Brian Barnett, Kevin Lee

Updated: May 4, 2023 8:55 pm

Posted: May 4, 2023 4:55 pm

Buying your own cable internet equipment is an easy way to reduce your monthly bills. Most ISPs charge a small monthly fee to rent their modem or gateway, but that amount can add up. Over the course of 6 months or a year, you will ending up spending more then you would to purchase a better one outright. There are quite a few options that aren’t expensive either, as pricing typically starts at only $60.

There are plenty of options here, including some that act as both a modem and router. We’ve done the research for you and narrowed the field down to our top picks from brands that have been in the game for ages, so you’ll be getting the best quality and customer service. Just be sure to you’ll have to double-check that a particular modem is compatible with your ISP before you buy any, as some ISPs are particular about what they will hook into to provide your service.

TL;DR – These are the Best Cable Modems:

  • Netgear Nighthawk C7000 AC1900
  • Arris SURFboard SB6190
  • Netgear CM500
  • Motorola Model MB8600
  • Orbi Tri-Band Cable Modem Router

1. Netgear Nighthawk C7000 AC1900

Best Cable Modem Router

Netgear Nighthawk C7000

  • See it on Google Shopping
  • See it on B&H Photo

If you’re looking to save some space, but don’t want to sacrifice killer performance look no further than the Nighthawk C7000 AC1900 from Netgear. The 24×8 DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem/router combo supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks, 802.11ac signals, and modem speeds up to 960Mbps.

The Nighthawk series is known for its ability to cut through congested Wi-Fi environments thanks to brawny internal hardware and signal trickery, and that’s the case with the AC1900 too. The 1.6GHz processor should keep even your most demanding traffic flowing properly, even if you’re blanketed in everyone else’s Wi-Fi at an apartment building.

2. Arris SURFboard SB6190

Best Cable Modem

ARRIS SURFboard SB6190

  • See it on Office Depot

If you’re looking to save a buck and just need a simple cable modem without any built-in router functionality then you need the Arris SURFboard SB6190. Don’t let this modem’s low price $80 fool you, it can handle your ISP’s higher speeds extremely well.

This 32 downstream x 8 upstream cable modem works with a raft of providers including Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox and more. Additionally, the device is rated for download speeds up to 1.4Gbps on 32 download channels and supports both IPv4 and IPv6 internet standards. If you’re still reeling from the price of upgrading your internet package, this Surfboard is hard to beat.

3. Netgear CM500

Best Budget Cable Modem

Netgear CM500

  • See it on Google Shopping
  • See it on B&H Photo

With Netgear CM500, the modem could pay for itself in as little as seven months depending on what your ISP charges in rental fees. There aren’t a lot of thrills here, but $70 gets you a DOCSIS 3.0 modem with 16×4 channels and a device that can handle 680Mbps download rates with up to 123Mbps uploads. Just think: With the $10 you’ll save each month, you could subscribe to a new streaming service like Netflix or Disney+.

4. Motorola Model MB8600

Best High-Speed Cable Modem Router

Motorola MB8600

  • See it on B&H Photo

Having the fastest internet on the block doesn’t mean much if your modem can’t take full advantage of it. That’s where the MB8600 from Motorola comes in. It’s a DOCSIS 3.1 model and offers 32×8 channels for blazing-fast downloads. It’ll also play nicely with any mesh networks you have set up (including Google Wi-Fi), while Motorola boasts its Active Queue Management software will “greatly enhance” your online gaming experience.

Best of all? Its reserved design and hidden antenna means the modem doesn’t look like a grounded stealth fighter.

5. Orbi Tri-Band Cable Modem Router

Best Cable Modem Wi-Fi Mesh Router

Netgear Orbi Wi-Fi 6 Router

  • See it on Netgear

If you have a large home and you’re worried about potential Internet dead zones, you should check out the Orbi Tri-Band Cable Modem Router. It’s operates just like Orbit’s other mesh Wi-Fi routers, except that it has a built-in cable hook up with 32 x 8 channels for down and up streams, respectively.

The Orbi CBR40 works great as a standalone router, but adding a satellite or two will give you up to 2,000 square feet of consistent coverage. What’s more, you’ll see your home network speeds jump up to 2.2Gbps.

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Best Cable Modem Router Combos

Editor’s choice

Editorial rating (4.3/5)

Arris G34
Price: $197.99
DOCSIS standard: DOCSIS 3. 1
Max supported speed: 1,000 Mbps
Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 6

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Jump to review

Arris G34
Price: $197.99
DOCSIS standard: DOCSIS 3.1
Max supported speed: 1,000 Mbps
Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 6

Cheapest

Editorial rating (3.4/5)

Motorola MG7550
Price: $144.99
DOCSIS standard: DOCSIS 3.0
Max supported speed: 300 Mbps
Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 5

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Jump to review

Motorola MG7550
Price: $144.99
DOCSIS standard: DOCSIS 3.0
Max supported speed: 300 Mbps
Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 5

Fastest

Editorial rating (3.8/5)

Motorola MG8725
Price: $399. 99
DOCSIS standard: DOCSIS 3.1
Max supported speed: 2,500 Mbps
Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 6

View on Amazon

Jump to review

Motorola MG8725
Price: $399.99
DOCSIS standard: DOCSIS 3.1
Max supported speed: 2,500 Mbps
Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 6

By Eric Chiu
Edited By Rachel Oaks

Share | Oct 17, 2022

Traditionally, cable internet subscribers had to buy a separate modem and Wi-Fi router to get home Wi-Fi. Combo router/modems combine both devices into a single unit, so you can save time and money when you’re setting up your cable internet connection.

Our top combo router/modem pick is the Arris G34, which offers modern Wi-Fi and cable modem features for under $200. The Motorola MG7550 will get the job done for budget-minded households, while the Motorola MG8725 is a premium combo router/modem that cuts zero corners.

Jump to:

  • Best cable modem router combos
  • Compare cable modem router combos head to head
  • Other top models
  • What to look for

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Best cable modem router combos

  • Arris G34—Editor’s choice ($197.99)
  • Motorola MG7550—Cheapest ($144.99)
  • Motorola MG8725—Fastest ($399.99)

Compare cable modem router combos head to head

The Arris G34 earned our editor’s choice award because it checks off all of our boxes for a cable modem/router and won’t break the bank. The G34’s modern Wi-Fi and modem features mean that you’ll get the fastest speeds out of your home internet connection.

The Motorola MG7550 doesn’t have the horsepower of our top picks, but at less than $150, it’s budget-friendly if you’re looking for the cheapest combo router/modem. On the other end of the spectrum, the Motorola MG8725 offers top-end specifications at an equally top-end price.

Best combo modem/routers in depth

Our top combo modem/router picks provide a reliable internet connection whether you’re connecting over Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Here’s what you need to know if you’re shopping for a combo modem/router.

Arris G34

Editor’s choice

Editorial rating (4.3/5)

Price:

$197.99

DOCSIS standard:

DOCSIS 3.1

Max supported speed:

1,000 Mbps

Wi-Fi standard:

Wi-Fi 6

View on Amazon

  • Supports DOCSIS 3.1 and Wi-Fi 6
  • Includes a 2-year warranty
  • Can’t support plans faster than 1 Gbps
  • Doesn’t have a power button

If you’re looking for a combo router/modem that covers all the bases, look no further than the Arris G34. With the G34’s Wi-Fi 6 support, your home’s devices will have the fastest connection speeds. The G34 also supports DOCSIS 3. 1, so you’ll be covered whether you have a 100 Mbps or 1,000 Mbps internet plan.

Externally, the Arris G34 is slim with its rounded 3-inch frontside. Unlike many combo router/modems, which are typically wider than the G34, you can put the G34 on a desk or shelf without losing a lot of space.

The G34 also comes with four Gigabit Ethernet ports and a standard coaxial jack, but we wish Arris took bigger swings with the G34’s features. The G34 doesn’t have a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, so it won’t support internet plans faster than 1 Gbps. Similarly, the G34 doesn’t have a power button, which is a minor inconvenience if you ever need to reset your connection.

But with the G34’s lengthy two-year warranty, you’ll be covered if anything happens with the combo router/modem. And overall, the G34’s competitive price and excellent features make it a great fit for most households looking for the convenience of a combo router/modem.

View on Amazon

Motorola MG7550

Cheapest

Editorial rating (3. 4/5)

Price:

$144.99

DOCSIS standard:

DOCSIS 3.0

Wi-Fi standard:

Wi-Fi 5

View on Amazon

  • Is very affordable
  • Has a 2-year warranty
  • Works with internet plans up to 300 Mbps
  • Is limited to Wi-Fi 5

On paper, the Motorola MG7550 is slightly hamstrung by its older DOCSIS 3.0 and Wi-Fi 5 support. In layperson’s terms, these features mean that you’ll get good—but not the best—internet speeds with the MG7550 compared to modem/routers that support DOCSIS 3.1 and Wi-Fi 6. More importantly, the Motorola router/modem supports only internet plans up to 300 Mbps, so you’ll be losing speed if you’re paying for an internet plan that’s faster than 300 Mbps.

But if you’re simply looking for a modem/router that works, there’s a lot to like about the MG7550. At less than $150, it’s much more affordable than buying a separate router and cable modem, and you’ll also get a two-year warranty. We also appreciated that Motorola added a power button on the MG7550’s backside for easy resets.

The Motorola MG7550 works best if your household has basic internet needs and an internet plan with less than 300 Mbps download speeds. We typically consider DOCSIS 3.1 and Wi-Fi 6 mandatory if your household is full of heavy internet users. But if you’re working under a budget and simply use the internet for emails or YouTube, you can save a lot of money with the MG7550.

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Motorola MG8725

Fastest

Editorial rating (3.8/5)

Price:

$449.98

DOCSIS standard:

DOCSIS 3.1

Wi-Fi standard:

Wi-Fi 6

View on Amazon

  • Fast for a combo modem/router
  • Usable with 2.5 Gbps internet plans
  • Expensive
  • Slightly larger for a combo router/modem

Gigabit internet connections require gigabit hardware, and if you’re considering a gigabit internet plan, the Motorola MG8725 will be a perfect fit. Along with standard DOCSIS 3.1 and Wi-Fi 6 compatibility, the MG8725 offers some of the best Wi-Fi technology around for a home internet setup.

The Motorola has AX6000 Wi-Fi speeds, so it’ll work best if your household has multiple heavy internet users who regularly take Zoom calls or download large files. In plain English, AX6000 means that the Motorola has excellent bandwidth for a Wi-Fi router. By comparison, our editor’s choice Arris G34 has AX3000 speeds, so it’ll be better for households with average internet needs like occasional Netflix nights or YouTube videos.

The MG8725 also supports internet plans up to 2.5 Gbps thanks to its 2.5 Gig Ethernet port. Many cable internet service providers (ISPs) are rolling out plans with speeds faster than 1 Gbps, and you can rest assured that the Motorola won’t be obsolete within a few years. Motorola’s two-year warranty also provides literal insurance in case your MG8725 has hardware problems.

Visually, the MG8725’s cylindrical design is similar to router/modems from Xfinity and AT&T. It’s definitely easy to look at, although the Motorola will take up more space. At 5.7 inches, the MG8725 is wider than most combo modem/routers, which average around 3 inches.

The MG8725 also draws a hard line in the sand with its premium price tag. At more than $400, it’s pricer than other high-end combo router/modems and in line with what you’d pay if you bought a separate Wi-Fi 6 router and DOCSIS 3.1 modem. Still, if you’re looking for the fastest performance and the convenience of a single device, it’s hard to beat the MG8725.

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Other top combo router/modems

Our runner-up combo router/modems were a slight step behind our top picks. But they still offer excellent value if you’re working under a budget or need alternative options for your home internet setup.

Arris SBG6950AC2

Editorial rating (2.9/5)

Price:

$110.00

DOCSIS standard:

DOCSIS 3.0

Wi-Fi standard:

Wi-Fi 5

View on Amazon

  • An excellent price
  • Support for internet plans up to 400 Mbps
  • May have performance issues
  • Dated specifications

Like the Motorola MG7550, the Arris SBG6950AC2’s older DOCSIS 3. 0 and Wi-Fi 5 specifications place it a step behind the competition. But on paper, it’s hard to beat the Arris router/modem’s great price.

However, there’s also a good reason for the Arris’s great price. Some customers have reported experiencing performance issues with the SBG6950AC2 thanks to its Intel Puma 6 chipset, and these inconsistencies helped the Motorola MG7550 beat out the Arris. But if you’d prefer to take your chances on the SBG6950AC2 and save a few bucks, make sure you’re well acquainted with your store’s return options.

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ASUS CM-AX6000

Editorial rating (3.2/5)

Price:

$332.16

DOCSIS standard:

DOCSIS 3.1

Wi-Fi standard:

Wi-Fi 6

View on Amazon

  • DOCSIS 3.1 support
  • Wi-Fi 6 and AX6000 support
  • No 2.5 Gbps support
  • Mixed compatibility with ISPs

The ASUS CM-AX6000 firmly sits in the premium combo router/modem camp. As with the Motorola MG8725, you’ll get DOCSIS 3. 1 support and AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 speeds along with a two-year warranty.

The CM-AX6000 also beats out a lot of comparable combo router/modems: the Arris G36 tops out at AX3000 support, while NETGEAR CAX80 customers have complained about support issues and performance problems while using Wi-Fi and the 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port simultaneously.

You won’t have this problem with the ASUS, which lacks a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, so you’ll be out of luck if you decide to get a 2.5 Gbps internet plan. You’ll also need to see if the ASUS is on your ISP’s approved modem list. For instance, Xfinity approves the CM-AX6000—but only for plans up to 900 Mbps.

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What to look for

Combo router/modem vs separate router/modem

Stuck between getting a combo router/modem versus buying a separate modem and router? Consider whether performance or convenience is more important to you.

Typically, your internet performance will be better if you get a separate modem and router. Standalone routers are better equipped to handle a lot of network traffic and cover large areas than combo router modems. If you decide to upgrade your internet setup, you can easily replace a separate modem or router without missing a beat.

But one of the biggest advantages of combo router/modems is their simplicity. With a combo router/modem, you’ll have one device that handles all your internet needs, and you won’t need to spend a lot of time setting up your internet hardware.

If your house is full of smart devices and internet users, we’d suggest getting a standalone router and modem or purchasing a premium combo router/modem like the Motorola MG8725. But if budget and a clutter-free internet setup are more important to you than performance, we’d recommend a combo router/modem.

DOCSIS

In layperson’s terms, DOCSIS refers to your modem’s internet speed capacity. If you’re on a 500 Mbps (or lower) internet plan and simply need the cheapest modem/router, you’ll get by with a DOCSIS 3. 0 modem/router. But if you have an internet plan with speeds above 300 Mbps, go with a DOCSIS 3.1 modem/router.

Wi-Fi standard

Current combo router/modems use one of two Wi-Fi standards: Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6. Wi-Fi 6 router/modems have the latest Wi-Fi performance upgrades, and we’d recommend them if you’re buying a router/modem for a large household. A router/modem supports Wi-Fi 6 if the box has “AX” listed nearby like AX3000 or AX6000.

If you’re working under a strict budget or have basic internet needs, it won’t be the end of the world if you settle for a Wi-Fi 5 router/modem. Similar to Wi-Fi 6 combo devices, Wi-Fi 5 router modems have an “AC” in their model numbers, like AC3200 or AC1900. But with a Wi-Fi 5 router/modem, you’ll be sacrificing speed for a slightly cheaper device.

Buying vs. rental

Many ISPs have their own combo router/modems that include features like Wi-Fi 6, phone, or security camera support. But these gateway devices typically come with a $5 or $10 monthly rental fee.

If you’re going to be with an ISP for the long haul, we’d recommend buying your own combo router/modem gateway instead of signing up for a rental. A rental gateway can be workable if you need short-term internet access, but if you buy a modem/router, you can save on rental fees and keep your device if you ever change providers.

Final take

If you’re looking for a combo router/modem that won’t take up extra space or cut corners on performance, get the Arris G34. The Motorola MG7550 is an excellent budget option for households who simply need a cheap Wi-Fi router, while the Motorola MG8752 will work best for heavy internet users who need the best possible combo router/modem performance.

Best cable modem router combos FAQ

Methodology

To find the best combo router/modems, we started by reviewing 20 of the most popular models from retailers, including Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy, to see the combo devices that shoppers were most likely to buy.

After selecting these candidates, we compared data points, including specifications, customer feedback, and ISP compatibility, to find the best picks in each category.

For more information on our methodology, check out our How We Rank page.

Related articles

  • Best Gigabit Modems for 2022
  • Best Wireless Routers 2022
  • Modem vs. Router: What’s the Difference?

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Best in 2022: modems | DGL.RU

Only a modem is not always enough to connect the Internet at home. You may need a router, or a modem with router capabilities. We offer you a list of excellent modems for different purposes.

  • Best modem overall: ARRIS SURFboard SB8200
  • NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home WiFi 6 with DOCSIS 3.1 – the best modem for gaming
  • Motorola MG7540 – the best modem router
  • Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig – Best Cable Modem
  • NETGEAR CM600 Best Budget Modem
  • Netgear C6250 – the best combination of Wi-Fi router and cable modem

DOCSIS : For most people, the speed of a DOCSIS 3. 0 modem is sufficient, but we have also looked at models with the latest version of DOCSIS 3.1. They are suitable for those who need high speed to download files, stream, play games.

Compatibility : Modem requires compatibility with at least one major ISP. Also, the more routers it is compatible with, the better.

Channels : Channels determine how many channels for incoming and outgoing information (32 by 8 or 24 by 8) the modem is able to receive simultaneously. The higher this number, the faster the Internet will be. (You need to remember: a modem with 32 to 8 channels will not give you fast access to the Network if the speed is limited by the provider according to your tariff).

Ventilation and heating : The temperature of the modem is approximately 219°C. We selected models with good ventilation so that the devices do not overheat. But you still need to make sure that the ventilation holes are not covered when the modem is in use.

Why is the best: The great looks of the SB8200 and of course the fact that it provides high speed, it can increase when accessing faster internet packages.

Specifications :

  • Compatibility: Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox (not compatible with voice packet services)
  • Channels: 32×8
  • DOCSIS: 3.1

Advantage :

  • 16 GB flash
  • Speed ​​850 – 2000 Mbps
  • Easy setting
  • Achieve up to 2,500 square feet with
  • High Speed ​​Router

Disadvantages :

  • Compatibility limited
  • Separate router required

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is a new generation of advanced modems. The design in white color, excellent ventilation reminds of a high class and performance. Thanks to a pair of GigEthernet (GigE) ports, the device is able to establish Internet connections even at the highest possible speed.

Claimed speed is 2000 Mbps, however, according to some users, the average speed is 850 Mbps. It is enough to support the current gigabit packages.

ARRIS combines a Broadcom processor with 3 GB of RAM and 16 MB flash storage. The modem may use speeds higher than most ISPs offer. So, this modem will not become obsolete for a long time.

However, for best performance, you will also need a fast router, and ARRIS currently has somewhat limited compatibility.

Why the best is a modem and router in one device that provides speed and the ability to play resource-intensive games.

Specifications :

  • Compatibility: major US cable providers
  • Channels: no data
  • DOCSIS: 3.1

Benefits :

  • Easy setup
  • Great app
  • Wide coverage even for large houses
  • Expandable coverage with included Wi-Fi 6 system

Disadvantages :

  • High price

The NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home WiFi 6 System is both a modem and a router. The device supports DOCSIS 3.1 and WiFi 6, the fastest standards available on the market today. For an average home, this speed may be excessive, but for enthusiastic gamers it is definitely not.

Orbi maintains high speed even when connected to 40 devices. Since it combines the power of a modem and a router, it includes NETGEAR Armor, a Bitdefender product that protects data security, resists malware, viruses (although you have to pay for a subscription). Other features include a Winston hardware filter, sold separately.

Within a multichannel system, coverage can be extended using special devices. The disadvantage of the modem is its high cost. In addition, for most people, the coverage and speed offered by Orbi are not relevant. But with active and intensive use of the Internet (especially for gamers), the model can become the best connection between a modem and a router.

Why the best : Motorola MG7540 is an incredibly powerful modem, ideal for the average family that needs the Internet for work, study, watching movies in good quality.

Features :

  • Compatible with Mediacom, Xfinity X1, Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Brighthouse, Charter Spectrum, WOW, RCN, CableOne, etc.
  • Channels: 16 by 4
  • DOCSIS: 3.0

Benefits of :

  • Good speeds for the average family
  • Gives modem speed 686 Mbps
  • Operation at DFS frequencies
  • 2 WiFi networks

Disadvantages :

  • Some units stop working after a few months

Motorola MG7540 is compatible with many providers. Suitable for you with an Internet speed of 50-250 Mbps.

Easy to set up model. With it, it is possible to launch two Wi-Fi networks, in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Equipped with four GigE ports. Broadcom chips protect against DDoS attacks (“Denial of Service”).

The router operates at DFS frequencies, thanks to which the influence of other Wi-Fi devices is not terrible. Motorola MG7540 delivers performance, good speeds with gigabit data. Disadvantage: some of these devices break quickly.

Why the best : The modem is well compatible with routers, provides powerful Ethernet speeds, improving Internet performance.

Specifications :

  • Compatible: Charter Spectrum, Cox Communications, Comcast Xfinity
  • Channels: 32 by 8
  • DOCSIS: 3.1

Benefits of :

  • Compatible with many
  • routers

  • Built-in surge protection
  • 2.5 Gb Ethernet port
  • 4 ports grow when faster internet packages are available

Disadvantages :

  • Limited compatibility with providers

Motorola MB8611 is a great cable modem with the highest speed of downloading files and uploading them to the Internet, ports that allow you to increase the speed of the Internet if faster packets appear. The MB8611 has speeds as well as ports for speeds not yet offered by major ISPs. This modem will last a long time.

It is compatible with most routers, so you can easily connect it to the desired device. The price of this modem is higher, but you pay for future (terabit) speeds. Surge protected. Attention: limited compatibility with providers.

Why the best : compatible with many providers, for rates up to 400 Mbps gives excellent performance.

Features :

  • Compatible: Cox, Spectrum, Comcast, etc.
  • Channels: 24 by 8
  • DOCSIS: 3.0

Benefits of :

  • Compatible with most
  • providers

  • 128 MB RAM, 8 MB NOR
  • Functions well up to 400 Mbps

Drawbacks :

  • Left hand display

The NETGEAR CM600 is fairly inexpensive, compatible with major ISPs, and delivers high performance and speed at rates up to 400 Mbps.

The CM600 has a Gigabit Ethernet port and a convenient on/off button for easy reboot. Also among the advantages – 128 MB of RAM and 8 MB NOR for fast work. Equipped with excellent ventilation. To some, the left-facing display may seem inconvenient.

Why it’s the best: has a super app that allows you to maintain a smooth connection.

Specifications :

  • Compatible with: major cable TV providers
  • Channels: 16 by 4
  • DOCSIS: 3.0

Benefits :

  • Convenient
  • Suitable for large houses
  • Up to 1500 sq. m of coverage

Disadvantages :

  • User ratings vary

NETGEAR is reliable, and the cable modem with Wi-Fi router is a good simple device for those who want to pay less for Internet. The cable modem with router provides a stable, secure connection and works with an app called NETGEAR Genie.

This modem does not crash when syncing with the Genie app. It is easy to manage devices, traffic, passwords, parental controls, especially if you manage all connected devices on this network. Mostly stable, although some users report different experiences.

Megabit and gigabit

Find out what services are included in your internet package. As a rule, high-speed Internet means megabit, up to 400 Mbps. With it, you can download 4K video streaming to one device while using other gadgets at the same time.

Gigabit Internet can download multiple 4K videos, large files, online games. Typically, high-speed standard Internet services require a DOCSIS 3.0 modem. Gigabit will require DOCSIS 3.1.

Wi-Fi

A separate modem has advantages. Router technology changes faster than a modem, and you may need to upgrade your router long before your modem becomes obsolete. In the case of a combined unit, it will be necessary to change the device completely. With a separate modem, you will only need to update the router.

Data transfer rate

Modems are characterized by the support of Internet speed in a certain range. For a megabit, or standard, or high-speed modem, the marking is DOCSIS 3.0, for a gigabit modem it is DOCSIS 3.1. Find out your tariff plan for the right choice of modem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How difficult is it to install cable modems?

Answer: It is usually simple, but varies from provider to provider. For a number of models, the provider’s application is downloaded, then the router is downloaded and connected. Before buying, make sure that the modem is compatible with the provider.

Question: How can I boost my Wi-Fi signal?

Answer: Check your tariff plan. Perhaps the provider does not provide you with the speeds you pay for. If everything is fine, but the Internet is slow, check the router. Old devices – both modem and router – can prevent you from getting the desired Internet speed. Nothing helped? Change modem.

Question: How long do modems last?

Answer: It depends on its quality, how it is handled, on the development of technology. As a rule, the modem lasts for 2-5 years.

See also: Connect your modem to your router and make the most of it.

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 delivers high speeds, NETGEAR CM600 is stable and affordable. Choose a modem that is compatible with your ISP and fits your needs.

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what is it and what is the connection speed – “Where is the best”

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Internet is transmitted over telephone, television, fiber optic and twisted pair cables. The choice depends on the existing network infrastructure and financial feasibility. Each option has its own data transfer standard. DOCSIS is one of the standards. In accordance with it, data transmission is carried out through deployed television (coaxial) cables. Often, next to the standard, you can see a numerical value. It denotes the version of the technology specification. Between themselves, the versions differ in the features of network organization, and for the user, the main difference is in the speed of the Internet.

DOCSIS connection technology

The standard for connecting subscribers to the network via coaxial cable uses a downstream channel, that is, it is carried out from top to bottom.

The schematic diagram is as follows:

where CMTS is the Cable Modem Termination System. Simply put, this is the operator’s modem to which user devices are connected. It encodes and moderates data streams, translating them into the desired frequency range.

This scheme involves the distribution of the Internet through the main modem, CMTS, to all connected subscribers at the same time.

When did the DOCSIS standard appear and to whom is it useful

Docsis has been used since 1998. The purpose of the standard is to unify the requirements for data transmission over coaxial cable and guarantee the compatibility of equipment supplied by different manufacturers.

At the time of introduction, the technology was promising. It made it possible to conduct the Internet through existing networks, which means reducing the cost of creating a new infrastructure. For cable TV operators, this meant the possibility of expanding the list of services provided, and for users – inexpensive Internet with a fairly high speed.

Now connection via DOCSIS in terms of data transfer rate is inferior in speed to other options for connecting to the network – FTTB, PON, HCNA.

What are the types of technology Doksis

Doksis is divided into types of specifications. The division is carried out in order of release of updates with additional functions:

  • Version 1. 0.
  • Version 1.1.
  • Version 2.0.
  • Version 3.0.
  • Version 3.1.
  • Version 3.1 FD.
  • EuroDOCSIS.

The differences between the types are determined by the quality of service (QoS) criteria, stream capacity, modulations, noise immunity. EuroDOCSIS is an adaptation of the standard to the European frequency grid.

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What is the speed of Doxis

The very first standard assumed data transfer at a speed of no more than 42 Mbps, and in the opposite direction – up to 10 Mbps.

The asymmetry of the channel existed in subsequent years, when updates were released. Only in the latest version of the specification was it possible to equalize the speed of the streams.

Starting with DOCSIS 3.0, the data rate has been increased to 170 Mbps on the forward link and 122 Mbps on the reverse link.

Regulation version 3.1 specifies the forward channel speed up to 10 Gbps, and the reverse channel speed up to 1 Gbps. These values ​​significantly exceed previous specifications. In addition, the standard provides for the reduction of energy intensity through energy management tools. This approach makes the industry of data transmission over coaxial cables more economical.

Specification Amendment 3.1 FD has not yet been commercialized. It is believed that it will make cable Internet more attractive to users by equalizing the speeds of the forward and reverse data transmission channels – in both directions 10 Gb / s.

How speed is divided between subscribers

Docsis is not a personal leased line. The band is shared among all users who are currently exchanging data. Therefore, the value for a particular subscriber varies widely.

The DOCSIS 2 0 standard differs from technology 3 0 not only in speed, but also in the possibility of link aggregation. The third version allowed channel aggregation on a cable modem for the first time. With this function, you can get higher speed performance.

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DOCSIS 3.0 technology: what is it for the subscriber? However, it can hardly be said that the technology will compete with optical fiber. This is impossible due to the fact that it is expensive to deploy new coaxial networks, plus the real speed for the subscriber with other types of connection is higher.

However, in sparsely populated areas with private houses, it is expensive to extend fiber optics. If you have coaxial cables, it is much cheaper to connect subscribers to the Internet through them. Even version 2.0 is able to compete with ADSL networks, and 3.0 is far superior.

DOCSIS 3.0 hardware

There are many hardware options that are suitable for this type of connection. The choice depends on the manufacturer, additional features and a suitable price category. Among the proposals, devices that work on the principle of two in one are common – a cable modem and Wi-Fi.

One of the most popular manufacturers of such equipment is Netgear. In particular, they supply a Wi-Fi router for DOCSIS model N450. It provides fast access to the network. But other manufacturers are not inferior in quality. When choosing equipment, consult with your operator.

What you need to know about Doksis: summary

  • This is a technology for connecting to the Internet via television cables.
  • It simplifies access to the network for subscribers in private homes, where it is expensive to lay fiber optics.
  • Internet speed through DOCSIS is faster than ADSL.
  • Most versions of the specifications of the standard provide asymmetric data rates.
  • Speed ​​from 42 Mbps to 340 Mbps in the forward channel depending on the version.