Not too long ago, I highlighted 3 ways to get rid of your Comcast modem rental fee after Comcast Xfinity killed my old Netgear gateway (modem + router). Comcast recently raised their modem rental fee for the xFi gateway to a ridiculous $15 per month (or $180 per year) in January of 2023. Previously, they have raised the price for their “xFi Complete” service to a hefty $25 per month (or $300/year). You don’t need either. Replacing an Xfinity modem with your own is an excellent way to cut your total Xfinity bill. I’ve saved thousands in doing so over the years, and I’ll detail how in this article, with a list of the best modems and routers to replace Xfinity xFi with below. It’s easy – anyone can do it!
I had successfully tried the Comcast negotiation route before – but it’s easy to forget to call in to negotiate every 12 months or so. And, when you get a discount on your modem rental, it leaves you with little leverage to negotiate bigger discounts on the cost of the internet service. Besides. I hated seeing a device with a little “Xfinity” logo on it sitting next to my computer. And, Xfinity is even using their leased modems as Wi-Fi hotspots (but you can opt out).
So, I decided to replace the Comcast-owned gateway, with my own, at a current cost savings of $180 per year. Don’t let Comcast fool you – anyone can do this on their own. Now, I am no longer paying the ridiculous $15 per month rental fee for a Comcast modem – and I want to share how you can do the same.
Update: I’ve also written more broadly on how to get rid of your ISP modem rental fee (if you’re not a Comcast customer).
Here is How to Replace a Comcast Modem with your Own, in 4 Easy Steps:
I will specifically detail how I replaced a Comcast modem with my own, but this should be applicable to other ISPs as well.
1. Buy an Xfinity-Compatible Modem & Router or a Gateway to Replace your Comcast Modem
You do not need to buy a 2-in-1 “gateway device” (modem + router in 1 device), such as the one Comcast commonly supplies and brands as “xFi”. You can (and should) go with a cable modem and pair it with a wireless router. It will work the same, but buying separately allows you to replace one half of the combo if you want to upgrade more cheaply in the future, versus the entire (more expensive) device. Not to mention, this setup is often more reliable, based on reviews of gateways.
There is a list of Xfinity supported cable modems that are compatible and supported with their network (and many modems are compatible even if not supported). Comcast recently upgraded their network to DOCSIS 3.1, but it is backwards compatible to previous generation DOCSIS 3.0 model modems.
The customer support tech I had spoke to previously had recommended a now obsolete Motorola gateway. After doing some research, however, I had noticed that this device had horrible reviews due to a number of problems working with Comcast’s network through firmware updates (or, lack of).
New and improved modems and routers come out all of the time. If I were buying today, I’d purchase an Arris S33 modem and pair it with a TP-Link AX3000 router (Wi-Fi 6), TP-Link AXE5400 router (Wi-Fi 6E), or TP-Link BE9300 (Wi-Fi 7) router, but any of the below modem + router combos will be more than sufficient for 99.9% of users. Remember, a modem + a router = a gateway. You need to buy both a modem and router, or alternatively a combo gateway, which has the functionality of both. I comb through every Xfinity-compatible modem available and the Amazon best seller lists frequently, so you don’t have to. Just select from any of the following modem and router combinations below (all are Xfinity-supported and compatible and will work with most other ISPs too):
Best Modems (Pair with a Router Below):
These modems have the latest/greatest technology and will be able to meet top ISP speeds for a long time. All are top sellers on Amazon with 4+ star customer ratings, offer the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology, over 1Gbps (=1,000Mbps, or 1 “Gig”) speed capabilities, and have been chosen for great value for their price. If you’re paying for top speeds with Xfinity, go with one of these.
- Arris S33: up to 2330Mbps
- Netgear CM2000: up to 2330Mbps
- Netgear CM1000: up to 1000Mbps
- Arris SB8200: up to 957Mbps
OR, Xfinity-Compatible Modems with Xfinity Voice Capability (to pair with a router below):
In my view, Xfinity Voice is overpriced, with much cheaper VOIP landline options out there that you can connect to any router (see Ooma). But, if you are sure you want it, the following modems are Xfinity Voice compatible:
- Netgear CM2050v: up to 2330Mbps
- Arris T25: up to 949Mbps
Wi-Fi 6 Routers (to pair with a Modem Above):
Wi-Fi 6 routers are best for households that connect up to 8 devices at once. The following Wi-Fi 6 routers all handle 1Gbps+ speeds, offer great value, and are highly rated Amazon best sellers with 4+ star customer ratings. All offer great value and blazing fast speeds – and will work with any ISP-compatible modem. Wi-Fi 6 routers are best for households that connect up to 8 devices at once.
- TP-Link AX3000 – Wi-Fi 6: up to 3000Mbps (2402Mbps on the 5GHz band + 575Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band)
- Netgear Nighthawk AX1800 – Wi-Fi 6: up to 1800Mbps (1200Mbps on the 5 GHz band + 574Mbps on 2.4 GHz band)
- TP-Link AX1800 – Wi-Fi 6: up to 1800Mbps (1200Mbps on the 5 GHz band + 574Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band
OR, Newer Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 Routers (to pair with a modem above):
Comcast has recently been advertising Xfinity “Supersonic Wi-Fi” offering. Broken down, “Supersonic Wi-Fi” is really just Xfinity’s fastest (and highest cost) internet tiers (Gigabit or Ultrafast plans) paired with a new Wi-Fi 6E router (which they are marketing as the “Supersonic Gateway” as part of their package Xfinity “Supersonic Bundle” deal). Even better – Wi-Fi 7 is now new in the market. I recently took a look at the new Wi-Fi 7 versus Wi-Fi 5, 6, & 6E technology to determine if Wi-Fi 7 is worth the cost. Here are some of the most popular Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 6E routers on the market at the moment:
- TP-Link BE9300 – Wi-Fi 7: up to 9300Mbps (5760Mbps on the 6GHz, 2880Mbps on the 5GHz band, 574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band)
- TP-Link BE10000 Mesh – Wi-Fi 7: mesh system with up to 10000Mbps (5188Mbps on the 6GHz, 4324Mbps on the 5GHz band, 574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band)
- TP-Link BE19000 – Wi-Fi 7: up to 19000Mbps (11520Mbps on the 6GHz, 5760Mbps on the 5GHz band, 1376Mbps on the 2.4GHz band)
- Asus AXE7800 – Wi-Fi 6E: up to 7800Mbps (2402 Mbps on the 6GHz, 4804Mbps on the 5GHz band, 574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band)
- Netgear Nighthawk AXE 7800 – Wi-Fi 6E: up to 7800Mbps (2402 Mbps on the 6GHz, 4804Mbps on the 5GHz band, 574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band)
- TP-Link AXE5400 – Wi-Fi 6E: up to 5400Mbps (2402 Mbps on the 6GHz, 2402Mbps on the 5GHz band, 574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band)
- TP Link Deco AXE5400 Mesh – Wi-Fi 6E: a mesh system up to 5400Mbps (2402 Mbps on the 6GHz, 2402Mbps on the 5GHz band, 574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band)
Gateway Modems (modem with router built-in, do not pair with a separate router, replaces both modems/routers above):
As highlighted earlier, you don’t need a modem and router in a combo unit (aka “gateway”) like Xfinity offers. They work the same as any modem and router combo. They are a bit on the more expensive side, not as reliable, and if you want to upgrade either modem or router functionality, you need to buy an entirely new device (vs just one-half). But, if you want one, check out the following devices:
- Arris G36: up to 2330Mbps, Wi-Fi 6
- Netgear CAX30: up to 949Mbps, Wi-Fi 6
2. Call Comcast to Activate your Modem (Or, Use the Activation App)
After you get your new modem and router combo, you can activate your modem using the Xfinity app or you can call Xfinity customer service to activate. Select “technical support” when you call in. When you are connected to a tech, tell them you bought your own new modem to replace your Comcast modem.
They will start by asking you for the MAC address and Serial Number listed on your new device so that they can send a signal to your device. I’ve had my share of bad Comcast customer service experiences, but this one was surprisingly positive and simple. The tech walked me through getting my internet up and running with my new modem. Within 5 minutes, I was connected at the full internet speeds I was paying for – the same speeds I had from the Comcast gateway.
The Comcast tech also removed the modem fee code in my billing profile (I didn’t have to ask for this, but you may have to). Finally, he gave me the address of a service center to return my Comcast modem. You can verify on your Xfinity device profile here, if you’d like, as well as on a future Xfinity billing statement.
3. Connect your Mobile Devices to your Router Wi-Fi
Once you have your modem and router running, you should secure your Wi-Fi network and connect your devices.
You can easily set your network name and your password on your router. You’ll then need to go back to each device (laptop, cell phones, tablet, etc.) to choose the new network and enter the password.
Each router will have slightly different instructions on how to do this, but all you need to know is that it’s a fairly simple and straightforward process. Total time invested was about 15 minutes.
For readers who are concerned about losing Comcast Voice capabilities I highly recommend purchasing an Ooma device. I’ve been using an Ooma for over a decade with Comcast and it works just as well. It only costs a few bucks per year in taxes, so you save significantly over Comcast Voice and allow yourself more negotiation power in the future. You simply plug the Ooma device in to the back of your router, plug your phone into the Ooma, and you’re all set.
4. Return your Old Comcast Modem!
Don’t forget to return your old Comcast-supplied modem or gateway. The tech told me I had 45 days to due this before Comcast listed the device as missing and charged me for it. You will not be charged for the device in the meantime, you just need to make sure to return it within the 45 days.
You can start your Xfinity device return online. And here is a list of Comcast Xfinity service centers to return your device. They are generally open Monday – Saturday during normal business hours.
Make sure to get a receipt for your device return! I have heard of a few examples where the returnee did not do so and ran into later problems. Any time you can keep a paper trail with Comcast, it’s usually a good thing, so you don’t get stuck with unwarranted fees later on (even when you own your own modem).
Bonus Update: I’ve also written about how you can get rid of your Xfinity DVR & TV Box fee through owning your own streaming device, saving $10 per month ($120/year) for each device. That is also definitely worth the effort.
Replacing your Comcast Modem Fee Discussion:
- Have you replaced your Comcast modem with your own?
- What gateway or modem/router combo do you personally recommend?
Related Posts:
Thanks for this post! I’m moving out of the parents house and into an apartment and if not for reading this, I probably would’ve rented the modem from Comcast for $7 a month. Instead, I got the exact one you recommended and it should pay for itself in just over a year. Great advice!
Hi guys
I just switched to comcast xfinity and have my fios verizon actiontec router which i didn’t have to return.
I was thinking of hooking it up to the comcast co-ax cable and see how that works.
Two questions –
1. Just replacing the ARRIS with Actiontec won’t be enough right ? I will have to call or use activate.comcast.com to activate the router ?
2. I also have phone service through Comcast and i see a phone cable running from the back of the ARRIS to the wall jack. I think this is what is providing phone service to rest of the phone jacks in my house. I don’t see any place in the actiontec router to hook up the phone cable. So question is how can i replace the ARRIS and still keep my phone service ?
If you have VOIP service through Comcast, you have to use their supplied gateway/modem.
Also, I’m not sure if you could even use the FIOS modem with Comcast. I know Verizaon uses Coax cables in the home but not sure if its signal compatible with traditional cable or not…
You can’t use it as a modem, but you can plug into ethernet port and use after cable modem for WIFI. FIOS uses a MOCA signal for their Actiontec, which is provisioned by their Network Technicians.
I’m considering contacting Comcast for internet service only in my townhouse. I only have an iPAD, do I need a computer to set up these components?
Hello . . .I read your clear instructions about acquiring and installing our own modem. I can’t seem to find a modem that has internet, wireless,router, and telephony. So I have this Motorola modem that has everything except the telephone modem. So if I buy a telephone modem, how do Iconnect both to the one cable hookup. Is there a splicer of some kind. Does anyone else sell a modem that does all, so I can get rid of that $7 monthly fee? Thank you for your help.
I use an Ooma (which everyone who is paying for monthly VOIP subscriptions should buy). It hooks right up to the modem with a fiber cable, then my phone hooks up to the Ooma. Here’s my Ooma review: https://20somethingfinance.com/ooma-review-1-year-after-making-the-switch/
Get your modem separate from the router as I’ve suggested here.
Comcast has a list of compatible modems on their website, some of which are wireless, router and telephone. Just go to your MyXfinity page (https://mydeviceinfo.xfinity.com), log on and read about the devices they would like to sell to you, only don’t buy from them. Instead, Google the device you want to find it at the best price.
Thanks for the clear instructions. I just made the swap and it was pretty painless. I only had to provide the MAC address. I also upgraded my Wifi router to a dual band “N” type. I recommend doing the modem first with old router, then the router….
Okay, so that means that you NEVER have to pay for a Internet bill again?
No, it just means that you will not have to pay Comcast (or whatever your cable ISP is) a monthly rental fee for the modem.
Do you need a better modem to run 2 iPads and 2 iPhones plus a computer. My service seems to be running slower. Not sure if you need a better router or modem. I do have up a Cisco Linksys EA2700 router 3months old.
I have basic internet access with Comcast Xfinity. I rented the RCA DCM425C + the Netgear 150 WNR1000 wireless-N router over a year ago. I pay $14 to rent the wireless Netgear per month. My total internet bill per month fluctuates for unknown reasons, but an average of $90 per month is the cost. I use the internet to check my email, watch youtube and browse websites so I don’t use much bandwidth. Comcast calls me every few months advertising they will ‘save me money’ and lower my internet bill to just $50/mo if I subscribe to their cable tv service.
I have had Comcast on/off over the years since 2005. I have moved several times over the years and always promptly return the equipment 2-3 days after disconnecting the service. I go and drop it off then ask for a receipt, but the Comcast personnel always tell me I don’t need a receipt. The next time I go and get Comcast again years later after moving they hook up internet then when my bill comes in the mail my first bill is $240. I call and ask what happened and they claim I never returned their equipment last time I had internet access with them and $180 is the cost of the cable modem box plus the wireless router box.
I’m afraid to swap out the modem thinking they will either keep charging me rent for a modem that I bought and or claim I never returned theirs after I move again/disconnect service.
I hate Comcast Xfinity, but I choose them because I’ve seen too many people who have constant connection problems with Qwest/Century Link meaning bad phones lines and long wait times on the phone. It all comes down to being extorted by the Comcastic butt-pirates, not having unreliable internet or not having internet at all.
In short, I’m just warning everyone of the ways of Comcast if you think you’ll save some money by outsmarting them.
Damn, Randy! You ALWAYS demand a receipt for anything you return!
Take to UPS, they return it to Comcast and proved you with a receipt that they scan off the equipment. Free and painless . I also took a pic of all #’s off equipment.
It isn’t clear to me if there is a modem / router I can buy with phone port. So do I still need to pay Comcast monthly or is there a solution out there?
The router I highlighted has ethernet jacks. I plug my Ooma in to it, and then my phone in to my Ooma.
I use Ooma too and the service is excellent. You can connect your Ooma to your cell phone and have it ring to the cell # and the Ooma # at the same time.
Hi Tom, as per my previous post: If you are on Comcast and are using Comcast’s home pone service you have to use their supplied gateway. So yes, you will unfortunately need to keep renting Comcast’s gateway.
There are gateways that you can buy w/ RJ-11 (phone) jacks, but Comcast will not provision them afaik.
NO,the option you have to purchase your own modem is to avoid using the one that comcast does provide to you with Built in WIFI/Modem, cause if you use the one COMCAST does provide to you, you will have a $10 fee to be charged along with your comcast bill for MODEM LEASING FEE.
However, if you buy your own modem it has to be one that is 100 % compatible with them and make sure that the one u are buying is a good one that supports at least 2Ghz / 5 Ghz and at least 300 Mbps, then, after purchasing the modem, you will also need to have a ROUTER to built your own WIFI network at home and that router should be also able to support 2Ghz and 5 Ghz…i hope this clear up your doubt.
The Arris TG862G is a telephony modem/router that works with Xfinity Voice Voip and is also a WiFi router. I purchased one over a year ago to eliminate the rental fee, and it has worked fine. I no longer have Xfinity’s phone service, so it’s just being used as a modem/router now. Not the strongest signal in the world, so I purchased a mesh WiFi system so I could get WiFi on the second floor back bedroom where my office is at. If you have Xfinity Voice, that’s the one to get to eliminate rental fees. If you use another Voip service, they generally come with their own hardware to connect to an ethernet port on your router/modem.
Comcast told me I have to have the Arris TG862 because I have a phone on it. They said the phone won’t work with a router and a modem.
search this blog for “Ooma”. That holds the answers to all your problems.
I wanted to add my recent experience with xfinity. I currently run a phone and an 8 way wired router off my modem with another wireless router. This supports the 7 or 8 computers we have in addition to smart phones and kindles. Xfinity had an offer to swap my modem for a newer faster one. The switch should have been seamless. Right. Just 3 simple connections, the phone jack, cable and internet connections and reboot the router. There is also an automated number to reconfigure. Well after many hours of phone calls and needless waiting I finally gave up and just put my old modem back in.
I worked in DP programming my entire career and for the life of me all these guys are good at is developing automated and confusing answer menus. There must be a better way to upgrade a modem.
We have d-link right now and I think it is losing its power….I am not a tech person:-) We have a comcast modeum, what would be the best to do, get our own modeum with a new router, or get a gateway through comcast…..
And if you decide to upgrade to a “triple-play” plan, they’ll charge you $99 for the internet *AND* $99 for the phone. And with that the “installer” had to borrow my punch-down tool to hook the phone connection into my wiring (and within a week I had to replace the crappy connection their “installer” did with a cable I crimped myself). And consider that the $99 internet install price was to install an internet connection I already had! Got them to back down on the phone connection, but they never gave on the internet. Just waiting until/if Fios gets extended to my area (don’t hold your breath). Would go to Verizon’s DSL/Phone/DirectTV bundle, except sat. won’t work at our location.
And that phone/internet box that Comcast provides and charges me rent on? It has a bad backup battery in it, and Comcast wants to *SELL* me a new one! What??? you mean **I** have to buy a battery for *their* equipment??? Yeah, if I were buying anything it would be a replacement box that *I* own, and tell them they can stugff their new battery and their $7.00 rental fee.
Hi G.E.,
Thanks for the helpful tips and links and advice, etc. I just recently got my first apartment and signed up for Comcast. I decided to rent the Gateway for the first month while I hunted for a good modem/router to use in its place.
Since this post is from last summer, do you (or anyone else) have a sense for how much the technology has changed in the last year? Is the equipment you mention in the post close to being obsolete, or, if I purchase it now, will it last for a few years?
Are you still happy with equipment a year later?
The Motorola SB6141 or SB6121 are two of the best options. The SB6141 is a bit newer and adds additional channel bonding options for future proofing but more ISPs have yet to fully utilize the SB6121’s hardware. The price difference is small though so if you can spare the extra ~$15 you might as well get the newer model :).
Has anybody used the Motorola SURFboard Gateway? It’s about $11 cheaper than purchasing both the SB6121 modem and the Medialink router, but I don’t know about the benefits or cons with that equipment.
I tried doing what the article by G.E. Miller said to do and was totally blown off by Comcast. First they won’t just turn on the new modem, not without having their own modem back in their sticky little hands. They tell you to wait 24 hours for you’re modem to activate, that’s a bunch of BS. I finally decided to put the Comcast modem back in service until I could get to a Comcast service center to return their modem. I will put up another posting after I complete that. Then I will let you know how it turn’s out.
Thanks for the info from “How to Replace a Comcast Modem with You Own – 4 Easy Steps.
Can you tell me if the Motorola DOCSIS 3.0 SB6121 cable modem paired with the Medialink Wireless N router would work with my wireless Comcast services: telephone, Internet and Xfinity cable?
Not sure about phone – but it works with internet. And cable runs off a cable box, not a modem. Comcast phone is a ripoff – get an Ooma instead.
Thank you so much for writing this article. I have been on the phone with Tech support with comcast for 3 days in a row now. I am paying for upload and download speeds of 15 and 20 and I am only getting .32 and .29. Of course at first they said it was my own fault and it was my equipment that was faulty. Then they said for a $55 fee for a tech guy, agree to sign up for their cable service and rent a new modem from them for $14 a month, they could have me back up and running properly again. When I abosulely refused, she then said that the modem they installed at hook up was out dated the day they installed and they are gonna send a tech guy over here to replace it with the exact same modem (that is outdated). So after shedding many tears, talking to my tech savy son and doing an internet search I found this article. I will be purchasing a new modem today and hope they don’t give me anymore trouble when I hook it up. Thanks again for all the information that this article has provided me.
hi, I’m posting this on behalf of my retired friends who are having on-going issues with comcast deleting their personal emta modem’s settings so that they lose internet and digital voice.
regarding some of the comments above, you can use your own personal emta modem instead of comcast’s. search on the comcast.com site for the list of approved and supported modems. BUT beware you may have issues going forward. see what follows:
timeline:
– they started with comcast internet only 2 years ago. they used their personal modem (provided by me) the entire time and had good reliable service.
– 2 months ago they got an HDTV and upgraded to the triple play using the comcast technicolor gateway (GW).
– 4 weeks ago, they asked me get them a replacement GW to avoid the monthly lease fee, $8.
– 3 weeks ago I purchased an arris tg862 which is listed on the comcast site as a supported replacement and called comcast to get it setup. first 2 CSR failed to get the modem activated and disconnected me. both seemed relatively clueless of what needed to be done and when problems arose, how to work around it. third CSR was professional and competent and finally go the GW activated. It took 3 hours total time on a saturday.
– they returned the comcast GW the next tuesday. 2 days later, they lost internet connectivity and phone. I came over, called 800 xfinity number and found out the modem info (CMAC, EMAC) were both deleted. CSR didn’t know why or how this happened, but 30 minutes later things were back up. for the trouble they offered $50 credit.
– 9 days later, they lost connectivity for phone and internet. they called the CSR and again all the modem info is deleted. 30 minutes later it’s back up.
is this acceptable? why and how doe this keep happening? the message seems to be, you’re going to have problems if you use your own equpiment. for elderly people, this is a big headache that they do not need. currently they are debating if they should stay with comcast or switch to u-verse which is also available in their area.
Best,
jeff
I’ve never had the problems you are mentioning with the Motorola 6121 (recommended in this article) in the almost 2 years I’ve had it. Their compatibility varies by modem from what I’ve heard and they really do cater to the 6121.
internet and devices to connect to internet are changing all the time, technology is always evolving, so, it is important to get the right equipment according to the right need, not all the modems and models are now suited to work fine with comcast, because they have been upgrading equipment that may the older modems not to work properly, you have to be diligent and cautious, to purchase the ones that are designed to be 100 % compatible with the new technology Comcast is using, for instance, that supports 2GHz and DOCSIS 3.1 .
So, do your research and your numbers too to see if is something you can afford or not.
sorry i forgot to mention…that supports 2Ghz and 5 Ghz ( DUAL BANDS ) along with DOCSIS 3.1.
There is a new version of the cable modem you recommend…
ARRIS / Motorola SurfBoard SB6141 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem
would you recommend buying this one instead for $20 more?
No. The 6121 has DOCSIS 3.0 and can handle speeds way faster than Comcast can deliver. It has been 100% reliable for me. No need to pay more.
I just got this badboy yesterday and will replace mine tomorrow!
Say I’ve got the triple-play “bend me over” package from Comcast, that shouldn’t matter right?
yes, absolutely, this one is a good option, i would recommend to buy this one you mention here..
Awesome man…just ordered mine right now! Will get it Thursday and let you know how it goes
Say, I was about to replace my modem with the SURFboard Motorola when I realized the current modem also has a phone jack and the Motorola doesn’t :(
Was so bummed, is there another version you would recommend that also includes the phone jack?
An Ooma has a phone jack, and when paired with the router I have suggested in this post, you should be all set (and save lots of money). Search for “ooma review” on this site.
Hi. I wonder if anyone had this problem. Signed up for Comcast tv and internet. Installed two cable boxes and one wireless tc connection. Then I purchased my own compatible modem/router by Netgear. Called CS and they walked me through setting up this new modem/router and deducted the rental fee off my bill and I plan on returning their m/r. However when I tried to connect the smart tv to the new WiFi it wouldn’t let me. Now I’m told the wireless Xfinity box won’t allow the use of any m/r except the gateway provided by Comcast. So I had to reconnect the gateway and get charges put back on my bill. So it doesn’t always work but I don’t see anyone who has this project. Do u know anything about it? Thank you.
Just read the Ooma review, one question..does Ooma have redundancy features where if during a natural disaster like earthquakes one can still make calls?
I asked Comcast about this when they signed me up for triple play and they told me they actually have mobile trucks that would be dispatched to keep the VOIP network running in that situation.
The land line is really just for emergencies for us since we use our mobiles pretty much all the time.
Is this how everything would connect?
(comcast coxial)—[new cable modem] —-[wireless-router]—-(home network)
|
|
[Ooma]
Ooma’s redundancy features would be the same as Comcast’s, if Comcast is your ISP. If your internet is working (Comcast VOIP is on the same line as your internet), your Ooma should work.
Ooma connects to router. Phone connects to Ooma.
Also, I have 3 referral codes remaining for Ooma (gets you $50 off and free shipping). It’s your lucky day! https://20somethingfinance.com/ooma-referral-code/
Guess not as I returned the cable modem back to Amazon :(
OOMA would’ve cost me another $120 + the modem and it would take over two years to pay for itself which I figured wasn’t worth it :(
I have the TG862 from Comcast. Issues I have is the connectivity is very bad / none when in my house 40 ft away from the device (this is thru a few walls).
1. If I get the combo Motorola DOCSIS 3.0 SB6121 cable modem + Medialink Wireless-N router, will I get a stronger signal than I currently have and then get a good connection in all my house?
2. I found have an older wireless router Cisco Linksys WRT120N. Assuming it is not good enough anymore. Am I right?
Thanks a lot!
After viewing the list of Comcast-compatable modems, I bought an Arris TM722 modem for cheap on eBay to replace the one I was renting from Comcast several years ago. It works fine-I’ve never had any problems with it. It does not have wireless capability, but I have a stand-alone wireless router to support it. The modem paid for itself in just over one year. Save some bucks and purchase your own modem VS paying Comcast’s rental fees!
Well I just bit the bullet and bought an OOMA + wireless phone for $120 from Costco (they had a sale). Setup was super quick and easy, call quality is great (installed it Wednesday 8/8/2014.
Is there anywhere else I can get an additional wireless phone for my second floor for cheaper than what OOMA sells it separately which is $50.
So now I’ll REORDER the Motorola DOCSIS 3.0 SB6121 cable modem which I returned to Amazon back in April and finally return my current DOCSIS 2.0 modem to Comcast.
Turns out I should be getting 20Mbps d/l but I’m only getting 9.8Mbs because of the modem the Comcast Rep said.
So now I’ll be down to internet/TV from Comcast and I asked the same rep if I cancel my current package could I sign up for some of the cheaper promotional packages I see online and they said yes. I thought Comcast wouldn’t allow that if you were a current customer? All I really watch on my current package are the HD channels and nothing else.
OK I did it! Just went live with my new ZOOM 5341J, I bought the Motorola 6141 but read all the horrible reviews online and didn’t even open it and returned it to Amazon and went to bestbuy and got this one. Registering was a snap, took 10 mins total with a rep online. My laptop connected directly to the modem I get 57.75Mbps d/l and 4.79 u/l speeds. But through my wireless I only get 9.85Mbps so I now know the wireless router is my bottleneck. It’s an older wireless so I believe newer wireless routers can transfer at higher rates so I can get faster downloads. But just happy I replaced my old modem with this new one
Hi G.E.
I found your article concerning the Comcast Arris TG862 Gateway.
My family put up with it for three months after agreeing to take it after negotiating a lower monthly rate.
What a mistake. I had an angry wife. Not a day went by without having to reset this P.O.S. Comcast has great bandwidth in my area. I do not understand why they want to blacken their reputation by providing this junk 3 in 1 gateway.
I bought the recommended modem and router from Amazon last Friday and installed them Tuesday. was on the phone with Sheila from Comcast for about 30 minutes because I could not attach the ethernet cord to my Macbook Air. She is a great service person.
Bottom line. This set up is the fastest problem free wireless that I have ever had. Happy Wife…Happy Life! Thank you for your article!
Pieinear
You’re awesome.
So can someone tell me? I am trying to replace my comcast modem Arris Mod-TM602G/CT with a SB6141 only to find only three plugins on the back the TM has four the one I need for my wireless router so now what?
I assume you also have voice through Comtrash? that 4th plug is your phone line which the SB6141 doesn’t have.
Read my earlier post in this thread since I ran into the same issue and just went with OOMA for my voice.
Comcast is sketchy. We just purchased a new Arris modem. After just disconnecting my Comcast modem and reconnecting the new modem, the tech attempted to send signal multiple times, he could not successfully send the signal to the new modem… So I had to keep the Comcast modem unless I wanted to pay to have a tech come out (I don’t think so) (HOW CONVENIENT). These cable companies need to be investigated- Just like the guy above when they deleted his modem information out of the system as to drop his connection when he bought his own modem- ridiculous companies. Dropped them for TV as well- Roku is SO much better, no commercials, a TON to watch, and CHEAP!
I have 1 tv with an HD digital dvr, 2 tvs with HD digital cable boxes and 7 tvs with the little bitty boxes that run about $3 a month, which dont even give me all the channels I am paying for, and a wireless internet router, all from Comcast. I’m paying out the nose in rental fees! I want to try getting my own cable modems and OOMA. My question is, is there an option for replacing those little bitty $3 boxes without spending a lot per box?
Aren’t you forgetting the telephone /VOIP/. The correct cable modem should be a telephone(VOIP) / cable / Internet(WAN) modem. Most of the modems you can buy don’t have Voice over IP.
Do you know of any?
I am just a messenger…
No – not forgetting anything. I use Ooma (VOIP) with the modem/router setup I describe in the post. Plug and play – works flawlessly.
Great tips, G.E., but after purchasing a Motorola SB6141, I came up to a problem.
The modem itself works fine for the internet and Comcast has the MAC ID and other info on file. However, I also have phone service through Comcast and the previous modem I was renting from them had my phone cable (in addition to the ethernet cable) connecting to the back of the modem. My new Motorola modem doesn’t HAVE a connection for phone cables, only one for the ethernet cable. And now, I can’t get a dial-tone on any of my landline phones.
I called Comcast and they said that I need an “eMTA” modem in order to reconnect my phone and get my phone service to work again. I’ve never heard of this. Do you have any recommendations or solutions to this problem? I need my phone and right now, aren’t interested in dumping my Comcast landline. I just want it to work again!
Any help would be appreciated!
Get an Ooma. It plugs in to your router (phone plugs into it) and works just as well, at a fraction of the price.
https://20somethingfinance.com/ooma-review-1-year-after-making-the-switch/
Thanks, G.E.!
After careful consideration — and counting costs — I finally decided to get an Ooma and dump my Comcast phone line. Found a deal on refurbished models online for $85 and, several weeks later, everything seems to be working more or less as good as before!
The best part is my Comcast bill went from $123/month down to about $65/month, saving me almost $700/year!
Good deal considering I started out just wanting to ditch my Comcast modem to save on the $10/month rental fee! :)
Cha-ching!
Hi-
I just wanted to tell you that I replaced our troublesome Comcast gateway with the Motorola SB6141 yesterday I followed your instructions to the letter and they were spot on! Everything – including my call to Comcast – went exactly as you described. And thanks for the tip to go directly to technical support. We had internet in less than 5 minutes. Then I installed a Trendnet Wireless AC1900 Router – and we are in business! Thanks so much!
Is there a economical purchase that handles everything VOIP/ internet/ and cable? Presuming I don’t wish to go with Ooma?
So it turns out the call quality on my ooma seems to suck according to my wife, had it since August 2014. So she wants to ditch the ooma (return to Costco) and go back to the comcast voip which we still pay for since we never cancelled our triple play package. I just replaced my comcast modem.
At this point do I have any options since my cable modem is the ZOOM 5341J without a phone jack? :(
You’ll have to buy an eMTA modem with a phone connection in back, if you don’t want to get another Comcast modem.
I was looking into getting the one linked below, before I decided to just get an Ooma and dump Comcast’s phone service from Triple Play all together. The modem has great reviews, but I strongly recommend looking at all of the questions/answers to determine if it’s right for you and any possible complications.
http://www.amazon.com/Arris-TM822-Touchstone%C2%AE-Ultra-High-Telephony/dp/B00721TUNS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1435908785&sr=8-2&keywords=emta+modem+TM822G%2FCT
Quality on my Ooma is great, so maybe you just got a defective one? See if Costco will do a switch for you before you go back to Comcast. That should be last resort.
So I notice the Arris router only has one Ethernet jack… and I have three cat5’s in my current xfinity modem.. plus I have VOIP , so, can I get an Ethernet hub to expand the Arris’s port?… then use the hubs jacks to plug in the cat5s I have in the modem and then use one of the spares on the hub to plug in an OOMA? would that work?
exactly. But you’ll want an Ethernet switch, not a hub. Something like this.
Plug one port into your modem and the rest of the ports are free to use for whatever devices you have (pc, ooma, wireless router, etc)
Great comments on this site. Just got my latest Comcast bill, and everything has increased. I currently have the Xfinity Modem/Router as one unit.I don’t use Comcast for my phone, just cable and internet. Performance is actually good, and I have wifi on my laptop, iPad and iPhone without any problems. However, paying $10 for the modem/router every month is a killer. Plan on visiting my local Comcast center this weekend to discuss all these new peripheral charges, and wonder if I should discuss with them my plan to replace their product with a separate modem and router. I have to admit I’m technically challenged and am nervous about disconnecting existing hardware and replacing with new. Just looking for thoughts, I guess!
Thoughts: It’s easy. I’ve outlined all of the steps in the article. Rip off that Band-Aid!
Same as Tiajo, I saw my bill everything went up. My regualr cable fee is included with our association fee. Beside that I have Home Infinity alarm,voice and internet. Total bill about $110 that is including the rental SMCD3GNV modem. What modem is capable with the comcast one. Please advise. I want to change as soon as possible.
Thank you
Hi,
I read your article last year, and was ready to get rid of the Modem monthly fee, but when I looked at what it was that I needed to buy,
it said that if I have the comcast phone service that it would not work?
That threw me…
I have the triple play Digital starter, one HD box and 2 old digital boxes for the old type tv’s and the bill just went up to $ 196…I need to know exactly what I have to purchase, I have my own wireless router, but want to get rid of the modem fee…
I don’t want to buy something unless I am 100% sure it’s compatiable …
can you clarify? thanks Kris
Maybe we are supposed to be born with this knowledge that to use Comcast phone service (which they call “Voice”) for an old school home stationary land-line (not a cell phone as Comcast has downloadable apps for these), you need some type of EMTA (MTA?) capable device:
http://www.cnet.com/forums/discussions/help-emta-device-needed-for-comcast-triple-play-564635/
to plug your land-line into (yes, I know I am old school).
So whatever you buy as a modem/router be sure it has a phone jack on it (4-prong female [apologies women (:] connection, NOT the 8-prong Ethernet type cable connection).
Why Comcast doesn’t add this to the webpage (I asked – sure they do it):
http://mydeviceinfo.comcast.net/ is really ragged of them.
I bought my own Arris SBG6580 refurbished Modem/router from Walmart for $69 + $7 for 2-year warranty.
And I use the EMTA device that Bask Talk sent with the Ethernet cable to the Arris SBG6580. It is working as my number was already ported (did not want to change phone numbers) to Comcast. Guess what Basic Talk supplies is a dumb EMTA device (no registration required?!) and they have not asked for it back.
CAUTION: Buying a modem/router from an individual, like on eBay, can be risky as it could be listed at the providers like Comcast as stolen. You won’t be able to register it. Get the S/N, and MAC address, and call Comcast, et al, to see if the device is not locked before you buy this way.
PEACE – BJEvS
No matter how I seem to phrase my search, I always land on the same results: How to turn off the Router on your Modem/Router. I will say, G.E. – yours is the easiest to follow and makes the most sense! However, I am looking for a slight variation of your method. I am using a Motorola SBG6580 Cable Modem/Router, which I purchased several years ago; when Motorola was still making them. I should also point out that I don’t use Comcast – and after reading these posts, I say THANK THE LORD, that I don’t have to!!! I do, however, use Charter Communications. I thought they were bad! Well, they are. Just not as greedy and evil as TWC; but they’ll get there… Anyway, since I use T-Mobile for cellular, I thought I would take advantage of the latest Asus Dual Band AC Router that they were giving away (not to keep, just no down payment and no monthly fee). Additionally, it is factory tuned to T-Mobile’s wireless specs, to allow the best performance with their cell phones over WiFi. I gave it to my mom, because where she lives, WiFi is the only solution when she uses her cell in the house, or around the exterior. It works fantastic, too. Now, she no longer uses a cell phone, and doesn’t need or want the router anymore.
What I want to do is swap my SBG6580 with her. Because she has a “Land-Line” through Charter, along with TV and Internet, she has a separate (dedicated, if you will) modem that the phone plugs into. My problem is: How to connect the SBG6580 to the modem she has already. The coax plugs into the modem and outputs to a router, as well as the phone. Is the Motorola Modem/Router even capable of this? If so, I can’t find any way to disable or bypass *just* the modem so the router is stand-alone. If it means getting another Router from Charter ($5 per month) I probably will do that – my cell phone barely registers a signal, inside my house. So WiFi is now my only alternative, at home. The Motorola is just not worth a damn, where the WiFi is concerned, although the Ethernet is quite good.
Again, I’ve been looking for a solution for awhile, and the only thing I can find is the scenario in your article; which you provide a viable solution to. What I am hoping for, is likely impossible. Which brings me to the reason for this post, other than giving you a well deserved thumbs-up, for your contribution! Diaablo had mentioned that, after using the Ooma for about a year, his Mrs. wasn’t very happy with it. I figure, in this day and age, why do we even need a “land-line”? Cell phones certainly dominate with consumers, right? Well, it seems there are still a huge number of people who prefer both. Myself, included! When I was shopping around; Vonage, Ooma; I found the initial cost to be way to high – Ooma, in particular. So, I went with magicJack. I paid $40.00 for the jack. It came with (back then) 1 year of free service and just $19.95 per year after that. Of course, today, it’s a bit more. I’m looking at a Fry’s Electronics ad right now: $31.99 for the jack and 3 months of service. I just renewed two days ago, for $35.00 for another year. It has gone up, yes. But, I’ve had it since 2009 and it has worked flawlessly! Never a problem! I have traveled all over the USA with my laptop and magicJack – where there is internet, I can make and receive free calls, to and from, using my (land-line) phone as if I were sitting at home. Not sure if Ooma does that, although I’m sure it must. I just can’t see putting out the money to buy Ooma, initially. If I’m not mistaken, there is no fee for Ooma, beyond the purchase price? But, really, sooner or later they’ll start charging a flat monthly or yearly rate. Just my opinion, mind you. You are obviously quite pleased with Ooma, and that’s what counts! Thanks again, G.E. for your thoughtful article! -Sean.
Currently have Comcast with the Voice Data Modem {Make & Model: SMC Networks smcd3gnv} I want to stop paying the $10 per month and was looking at getting the ARRIS SURFboard SBG6782-AC DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem and AC1750 Wi-Fi Router. I have the Comcast triple play so I do have voice. Do I need to get any other equipment? I have a couple of computers, cell phones, and an ipad that connect to wifi. Do I need a wifi router? This seems to be a all in piece of equipment
I was told that I could use my own cable modem for Internet to avoid paying Comcast the rental fee. For my phone service I would still need a Comcast modem on my cable line along with my internet cable modem but Comcast doesn’t charge a rental fee for the phone only modem even though it has internet capability.
G.E.,
If I do – not – want wifi, and I just want to connect my iMac to the internet (no other devices), do I really need a router?
Isn’t a cable modem enough?
Thanks.
Mac
A router simply converts your Internet into a wifi network to be received by wifi antennas in your computer or mobile phone. So if you have no need for this, then you don’t need a router. But, a router can be an inexpensive purchase that brings huge convenience to Internet connectivity.
I am currently locked into the Xfinity triple play and wanted to get out of the $10 rental fee for their Cable Modem/Router/Phone combo. I am stuck with the Comcast phone in my package but Do NOT use or need it. I wanted to replace it with an SB6121 that I currently own. When I called Xfinity to give them the MAC address of the new Cable Modem, they asked if it had the Emta phone port, which it does not. They then told me I could not replace my modem, EVEN though I didn’t care if the phone service stopped working!! They said even if I returned the rented modem they would charge me $10 rental because I have voice service in my bundle. Is that not ridiculous???
Anybody else run into this, and any way around it?
I’m in the same boat: Comcast Triple Play with their $10/month modem. But dropping the voice line means I drop to Comcast Double Play, AT NO REDUCTION IN MY MONTHLY FEE! So I save absolutely nothing if I drop my landline! Yes, I could still save money over time if I buy a modem, but Comcast feels people will pay $10/month for a modem that they will maintain if it tanks.
The TPLink N450 router you recommended gets mixed reviews on Amazon. Some people are saying v8 is great but v9 has issues. Which one did you get? Are there routers you would recommend that are a good value?
I have read the original article and all of the thread to date, but am a bit puzzled. I currently have Triple Play like many above, and would like to take it down to just internet. I have bought a new cable modem, router, and Ooma. All good. But what is the exact order of steps to use with Comcast to get everything working in the least amount of time? I would like to keep my current phone #, which may take a couple days to make happen from Ooma’s end. Do I just pick a day, disconnect the Comcast “stuff”, connect everything else, and contact Comcast to make the switch (then Ooma to do their bit)? Or is there an easier/faster way? I can live without a land-line for a couple days.
If folks need a phone line = dump Comcast and go with a different VOIP provider.. Port your # over to the new provider before you cancel the Comcast part though.. a few ideas on who offers VOIP – http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2483780,00.asp
Okay..since I’m somewhat dense, let me tell you what i’m paying for now. I have Comcast’s Preferred Triple Play which includes Digital Preferred, Digital Converter, access to On Demand, Performance Pro Internet and Xfinity Voice. I also have their modem and a basic modem for an older TV.
If I would get OOMA, the modem and router you specify, what services would I be paying for after hookup of these three items? Comcast has so many packages and I really need expert help since I left the “tech” dept. long ago as things went to fast to keep up with a 14/7 job. HELP!?
P.S. I’m paying (with taxes and fees) over $200 a month that i can’t afford.
So I just purchased an Arris SB1690. Got it all hooked up and called Comcast. Spent an HOUR on the phone and they’re telling me that they are getting an error when adding my modem to my account. Really? Is that what’s happening or is Comcast trying to discourage my upgrade?
They said I’ll need to take my modem to a service center “to be added manually”.
I hung up with them and chatted to another rep for a few minutes. They also said that they were getting an error and they raised the issue to some kind of support team. They said that Comcast was blocking my modem, and the support team would resolve it.
Either way, I’m about to go to the service center. Maybe working parallel paths with get it resolved sooner. Obviously, I’m about done with Comcast… THEY SUCK.
You are a lifesaver. I used the same attack, and lowered my bill 56%! Even the guy at Comcast was shocked at how much we were being charged.
I am trying to replace a modem DCT700/US. I found a 2247-N8. Will it work?
Oh my goodness clear and easy-to-follow instructions. Was a little hesitant to replace the Comcast modem, but the wireless was poor and for $10 extra every month, I was fairly unhappy.
Bought the Motorola MB7420 Cable modem and paired it with the ASUS RT-ARCH13 Wireless router. Works like a charm.
Thank you for the great post.
I found an Arris TG862G for $138.95 or the combination of the (N450) $29.95 + $57.99 (SB6141) which equals $87.89. So for an extra $51.06, I can replace what the good folks at Comcast have given me almost exactly. That’s only 5 months more that I have to wait to break even at $10 a month. Less months if Comcast would raise the rental fee again. Not that they would ever do that.
There is a comfort factor that I like even though it is not the TG862 G/CT.
What are your thoughts?
Between the two, I’d go with the N450 and SB6141.
this…. this post is just wonderful T_T
The modem you use the SB6141 no longer is supported on Comcast. I bought one about 2 yrs ago and now it cuts out all the time. It comes back usually but its a pain when your working on something. Sometimes I wonder if Comcast plays around with folks who have their own modem/router to see if they can lure you back to theirs. But their wireless was terrible. I live in a 100 yr old farmhouse and when I had the Comcast modem/wireless it hardly ever picked up anywhere even with an extender. I have a Cisco linksys which was $30 bucks and I use the extender and it works well now. That is unless my Surfboard is not working 30% of the time! Am looking to buy a new one today. Hopefully they won’t decommission it to soon!
They do support it (it’s called Arris now because Arris bought a portion of Motorola’s business). Updating the post to reflect that and changing it to a more up-to-date model, the Arris SB6190. If you go to the device page, click on Arris and “more”, you’ll see the SB6141 and SB6190 there. I would venture that it’s a problem with your specific modem or Comcast instead.
Is there a way to replace the cable boxes I have for multiple tv’s I have in the house? The Digital Converers they are charging me $9.95 a month each, as I have 5 tvs
We went to Roku for TV’s we didn’t use much and dumped the boxes on just those sets
I’m sure this might vary by area but in my area you no longer have to call Comcast when replacing your cable modem. Years ago when I bought my first one that was the case but not now. After removing the old modem you simply connect the new one to the cable and power it up. After a couple minutes when it has connected to the network, you connect your router to the modem, open your browser and an activation page should automatically come up. You will have to supply your account number and phone associated with the account and it will be activated remotely. I did this recently and the process was relatively painless.
Did you call them to drop the rental fee? (I wouldn’t trust them to drop it on their own)
Twas easy to change to my own cable modem that wasn’t listed on the approved equipment page. Took 30 minutes or so and just required the mac address. I did it through online chat, using a my cell phone hotspot, to allow me to disconnect from the old equipment.
On a related note, does anyone know what they (Comcast) are now replacing everybody’s all-in-one modem with for those who have been renting for a few years? They’re notifying us that we need to bring ours in for an “upgrade”. Is it just for support of this DOCSIS 3.0 thing, and do you know if there might be any improvement to the other features of the box? If my saved label picture is correct, right now we’re on their technicolor “TC8305C” for internet,WiFi, and phone. It’s done OK, but the WiFi isn’t all that strong upstairs and I was planning to add something for that.
Aside from rental fees, is there any downside to this thing they’re pushing now?
Thanks! (and thanks for the article)
How often does the upgrade happen for modems? The last thing I want is to swap my modem that is rented for a purchased one and then for Comcast to upgrade and leave me re-purchasing another modem.
That is a good question. People need to buy speeds fast enough to handle upgrades. If you buy they exact speed you have now you will probably be buying a new one in a year or two. It also might be worth going to the office and asking if you are worried. I am already running at 200 megabit now. I think it was 100 a couple years ago. I just bought their fastest Arris which should last a long time.
Hi G.E. I have Comcast Triple play with Comcast rental modem. Comcast agents gave me two conflicting answers when asked if my alarm (non Comcast) will still work if I put my account on seasonal hold. Will it or how is best way to handle this? They must have numerous customers who want security alarm to work but still be able to use seasonal hold. John
I guess I’ve come across a rare problem as the Comcast Tech and his phone contact couldn’t fix the problem. I have Blast at 250Mbps only. No TV. I was using a rental Comcast Modem. Decided to eliminate the monthly fee and use my own of course. My first attempt was with a Netgear C6300. No go. Then I reconnected my rental and no longer worked. Apparently it was deactivated. Said I’d have to bring it in to be ‘re-scanned.’ But I want to use my own so no go on that. I then bought a new Arris SB6190 (I have a Nighthawk router.) No go. The tech comes (4 days later) to fix this problem. Spent about 2 hrs and could never get my modem to work but was able to get his Motorola Comcast modem to work. He stated he’d have to come back the next day with a supervisor to figure out what’s the issue. I asked if he could leave the Motorola with me so I could have service for that day until supervisor came. It was for another job so I couldn’t so he brought me a new modem that I had to agree to a $11 charge for (lol…ridiculous.) Of course he went to hook it up….and it wouldn’t work. So I had 2 hours of multiple Comcast techs and all I got out of it was still no service and an $11 charge. They’re returning today so I’m curious what will come of this. Any one else experience this?
Question, I want to save the $11 a month $132 a year by getting my own modem. But I have 3 xFi pods are they comparable to a non Comcast modem?
I spoke with Comcast technical support and the girl said I had to use their modem. I am not believing that!
This write up seems better than the one by comcast. But I thought I would add something if you are tech savy. Once it is up try to go any url in you browser. If they have it setup to be automated you will get a welcome to comcast page with instructions to set it up. In other words you can skip the calling comcast step. Although the guy at the office did ask me for them and took like 20 minutes doing a step I don’t think he had too do.
Initially it will has you for some verification information. Then at the end it will reboot the modem. You just have to wait for the lights stabilize again
Great article. Huge help with deciding to get my own equipment after the rental increase. What really pushed me were the bad reviews on the new xb6 I think it is. The advanced model with a hint of a few $ more as well. Ordered a Netgear router and debating about Netgear or Arris for the cable box. Will decide later in week. Just hesita t in setting this up and begging for help from Xfinity. Hoping it was more user friendly.
I am interested in installing a mesh WiFi system due to poor WiFi in the house. If so, do I still need a modem and a router?
Near the top, are you sure you didn’t mean to write: “Comcast recently upgraded their network to DOCSIS 3.1”? Since this article was recently written I’ll note, Docsis 3.0 has been out for quite some time — 3.1 is the new standard. And yes, backwards compatible to 3.0.
Thanks for your article and Comcast recommendations.
I just hooked up a new Comcast rented xFi Advanced Gateway (their name for the router/modem). I wanted to try theirs for a month because my new service operates at a fast 400 mbps. Their router is really noisy. There is a distinct fan and humming noise that is already driving me crazy. I want to buy my own replacement that can handle this speed plus one land phone line, but want to get the most noise free one. Do you have a recommendation? The Aries TM822 that I used to use (I own it), made no noise at all. Thank you, Alan
I’m using Comcast for home internet and phone services. Renting Xfinity gateway costs $13 per month and I was searching on line to find some ways to cut costs. Come across your article and follow your advises through. I just have my own modem and router replaced. It was easy with Xfinity’s tech support, but it was your article to give me all the clues in the first place. A big THANK YOU to you!
Hello there, I currently have Comcast and my internet is supposed to be at 150 mbps. If I understand you correctly, the new modem and router will be fast enough so we don’t get slower in speed. Is this true?
Nathan
If you get any of the combos I’ve listed, yes.
Do I have to get a independent modem & router or can I get a two in one like
Netgear C7500 or any other ones listed on the Xifinity site? I rather have one box taking up space verses 2.
Hey folks,
I just made the change and it’s working fine. When I returned the comcast modem to comcast. I was told that I should call up with the new mac number.i asked why, afterall it was working fine. He said that if something goes wrong comcast could reprovisione my modem because they have my new mac address. I told him that the modem was obviously provisioned as I had an email welcoming me to comcast. I have a fear that they can cycle down my bandwidth if I give them my mac address(rumours abound) in order to get me to upgrade my bandwidth to charge more money. What say all?
My isp will not activate my Arris sb6183
Is your ISP Comcast? If so, they should, and you should try again.
Would a 300M TP-LINK router (model: TL-WR842N) work?
Doing all that you described “How to Replace a Comcast Modem with your Own”, would I be able to turn off router at night and not lose phone connection.
Question: can I use an Apple airport extreme base station?
I would like to own my own modem and stop paying rent to Comcast. Based on your instructions it seems pretty doable. However, you refer both to a modem and a router. I only have a modem with my Comcast rental. Do I need a router? I have unlimited voice for my phone (Landline) and xfinity mobile service. My internet download speed is 200mbps.I do not want to change my phone service at this time.
You may think you only have a modem from Comcast, but it’s probably 1 unit that is both a modem and a router. If you don’t want to use WiFi and just use a direct connection, a modem is fine.
Just have one question……What happens if the modem goes out (Offline) or goes out or any problems.. Who do you call, comcast to put it back online or the modem company?
If it’s on Comcast’s supported modems list, you call Comcast (even if it’s not, I’d start there).
Along with our internet we also have a home phone. Does this work with this as well?
Thanks for your info. I do have ooma and comcast. What if I did want to use a 2 in 1 Gateway for simplicity. Do you have a recommendation for that? Thanks again for your help!
This is about returning your XFINITY modem/router device in the U.S.A. You do NOT need to find a service center. Take it to any UPS STORE (Not UPS shipping, but The UPS Store) TPSS has some kind of contract with XFINITY. They ask a couple of questions (not even your name or account number, nothing to worry you), you sign a couple of papers, you get receipts and proof of return, and they box and ship it back at no charge to you. This is just crazy fast and convenient, and a there are a WHOLE lot more UPS STORE outlets than there are service centers!