Cox is one of the internet and telecommunication providers that users in the United States can choose. If you are already using Cox internet and you want to save money and even improve the performance of your service, you are in the right place as we are going to share a tip that will allow you to achieve just that. You may not know this, but when you sign up to Cox’s internet service, you can use your own modem, rather than the one that is available for rent directly from Cox. Here we will take a look at the advantages of using your own cable modem router and will also discuss what are the best modems that you can get for Cox.
Can you really use your own modem with Cox internet?
Many Cox internet customers are now aware of the fact that it is possible to use your own modem, instead of the one that the provider offers for rent. Using your own model offers many benefits, but it is important to keep in mind that you can’t simply use any modem. The internet modem that you use has to be DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1 internet modem. The good news is that Cox offers a list of modems that are compatible so you just need to check their website for more information. We will also mention here what are the modems that you can use.
What are the advantages of using your own modem?
As we previously mentioned, using your own modem, instead of opting for the one that Cox internet can rent you, will allow you to enjoy some advantages that are worth considering. When you rent a modem from Cox, you will have to pay around $9.99 per month and while this is less than the initial investment that you have to make when you get your own modem, in the long term, using your own modem will save you money. Getting your own modem is a once-off expense and even if you get a high-end model, it will end up being cheaper than paying for renting the modem from Cox.
Another advantage of using your own modem is that you get to choose the brand and model that you prefer. Although the modem that you get from Cox is not bad at all, being able to choose your own model allows you to get a device that suits your specific needs. You can decide what features are needed and if preferred, you can even use a combination of modem/router.
What about routers?
Once you decide that you want to use your own modem, it is important to keep in mind that the modem is not your router. The modem is the box that lets you have internet at home and it transfers the signal into a digital signal that can be used on your network.
Then we have the wireless network router, which is the box that enables multiple devices to use the same internet connection. It basically routes the connection that the modem provides to multiple devices in your home, including computers, tablets and smartphones. This is done using Ethernet cables, or WiFi in most cases. It is important to keep in mind that not all routers are the same.
When you select a router, you need to check features like the potential range, the Quality of Service functions and the WiFi standard used, which will have an impact on your maximum speeds.
One thing that should be noted and that can make things a bit confusion is that modem/router combos are widely used nowadays. These devices include a modem and a router in one package, which makes them practical if you don’t have too much space at home and depending on the device, you may also save money.
DOCSIS Explained
In order to be able to use your own modem with Cox, it is important to make sure that it works with DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1. DOCSIS is the technology standard that is used by cable modems to enable them to provide internet to your home, office or businesses. It first edition, DOCSIS 1.0 was launched in 1998 and in 2013, it was upgraded to version 3.1. The main difference between the variety of versions available is that the later versions let your modem offer the higher internet speeds needed by things like file downloads and video streaming over several devices.
For instance, DOCSIS 3.1 is capable to support download speeds of up to 10Gbps and upload speeds of up to 1Gbps and even DOCSIS 3.0 supports download speeds of up to 1Gbps. Cox only lets you use a DOCSIS 3.0 or above because these are the modems that can offer the speeds and the service compatible with what the company has to offer.
Best Cable Modems for Cox
Arris Surfboard Motorola SB6141
This modem features DOCSIS 3.0 technology, which in theory, can give you speeds of up to 343Mbps on the downstream and 131Mbps on the upstream. You can easily install it, set it up and the manufacturer states that you will be able to surf the internet in just a few minutes. The Arris Surfboard Motorola SB6141 is very affordable so you will definitely end up spending less than what you would after a few months of paying the rental fee for the Cox modem. The convenient size is another reason for choosing this modem. It is easy to use, simple and it offers good value for money.
TP-Link TC-7620
This modem supports DOCSIS 3.0 and it is set to work with all cable internet plans that offer speeds up to 300Mbps. It combines up to 16 channels on the downstream, which can give you download speeds of up to 680Mbps. The modem offers a 2-year warranty and it is available for a reasonable price. You can save money in the medium term when compared to the rental fees that you would pay for the Cox internet modem.
Netgear CM100
This is another modem that supports DOCSIS 3.1 and it offers incredibly fast speeds that can be up to 10 times better than what you get from other DOCSIS 3.0 modems. You may not need this kind of speed, but if you do, this may be the router for you. While it is more expensive than other devices mentioned here, if you have a high rental fee for a long period of time, the Netgear CM100 could still be a good option. The innovative design not only looks well, but will also fits without issues in small paces. The setup is simple and you will be able to browse the internet with great speeds.
Arris Surfboard SBG6900AC
Unlike other devices mentioned in this list, the Arris Surfboard SBG6900AC combines a modem and a router in one device. You won’t have to get a separate router after you buy the modem. The Surfboard SBG6900AC is compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 and supports speeds of up to 686Mbps through 16 bonded channels. It relies on wireless Ac router technology that ensures that the fast speeds are available on your devices. You get a 2-year warranty as well.
Linksys CM3024
This is a fantastic modem with DOCSIS 3.0, but it is not the most affordable option available. In spite of the high price, it is worth considering since it supports the bonding of up to 24 channels on the downstream and 8 on the upstream, which enables you to enjoy incredibly fast speeds. You won’t experience annoying delays when you are watching videos. The device supports speeds of up to 960Mbps and while the initial investment is high, it is justified by the high quality of the device.
Arris SB6109
The Arris SB6109 is meant to be the fastest DOCSIS 3.0 modem in this list. It bonds up to 32 channels, it offers speeds of up to 1.4Gbps, which is very impressive. This modem is not overly expensive and it is even available for a better price than other modems that are not capable of offering the remarkable speeds that you can get with this one. The Arris SB6109 comes with a 2-year warranty and it offers excellent customer support.
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