![]() ![]() Consider investing in a modem that also supports a newer type of DSL, so you’ll be prepared if your ISP upgrades its system. Check with your ISP to figure out its specific type, but residential connections typically use ADSL, ADSL2, or ADSL2+ (in order from oldest to newest), and business connections could also use SDSL or VDSL. If you have a DSL Internet connection, note that there are different types and versions of DSL, and you need to buy a modem that’s compatible. Even if your ISP is still on 2.0, you probably want to prepare for the future and upgrade to a modem that supports DOCSIS 3.0, like the Motorola SURFboard SB6141 or the Zoom 5341.īuying the latest modem can net you a tidy performance increase if your Internet package benefits from support for new networking technology like DOCSIS 3.0. You can call your ISP to see which DOCSIS version it supports. Some cable ISPs currently support DOCSIS 2.0, and are (or will be) upgrading their infrastructure to DOCSIS 3.0 to provide faster speeds and better performance, especially if you subscribe to their higher-speed packages. If you have a cable Internet connection, the biggest spec to compare when shopping for a modem is the version of DOCSIS standard it supports. Some give just a simple list, while others recommend specific models for the different speed packages they offer. Many ISPs (like Comcast, Time Warner, Cox, and AT&T) even offer this information on their websites. Switch from cable to DSL (or vice versa), for example, and you’d have to invest in another modem or start renting one again.īefore you hit the streets to start shopping for a modem, check your ISP’s terms regarding the use of customer-owned modems and see if it supplies a list of recommended or approved models. Also, remember that the modem must support your current Internet connection. Your ISP likely won’t offer support if you have problems with your modem, and you’ll have to replace it yourself-or start renting again-if it stops working. ![]() With freedom, of course, comes responsibility. But if they can’t fix or replace it quickly and you need Internet access right away, it’s probably worth taking the time to buy a modem off the shelf at your local electronics store and hook it up yourself. When you rent a modem, your ISP usually provides free support and replacement services. ![]() If you’re feeling ambitious, flashing your modem with third-party software like Haxorware can get you some performance improvements.įinally, the most pragmatic reason to buy your own modem is to replace a busted one. If you really want to get your hands dirty, you can even play around with third-party firmware like Haxorware. Buy your own modem and you’ll have full access, which can be useful for checking traffic logs and signal quality or troubleshooting Internet issues. Many ISPs also limit your access to the Web-based control interface of rental modems, which can hamper your efforts to monitor or tweak your network. ![]()
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