A List of Approved Modems and Routers for Spectrum, Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Optimum, & More

If you’re wondering, “Will my modem work with my new Internet plan?” or “Will my router work with my new ISP?”, the short answer is yes — as long as you check for compatibility.

While you could go with your ISP’s modem and router rental service, many consumers want the opportunity to choose a modem and router themselves. Taking on the responsibility of choosing your own router and modem has many advantages, from saving money to improving connectivity and Internet speed in your home.

However, choosing a modem and router that is approved for and works well with your ISP is essential to success should you choose to forego ISP-provided hardware. In general, the most important thing to weigh is whether your modem is compatible with your provider — a router just needs to be compatible with your modem. Here is a list of some of the more popular and highly rated approved routers and modems for some of the most popular and highly rated Internet service providers.

Xfinity Approved Modems and Routers

If you already have your own router and modem or modem/router combo and you have new Comcast Xfinity service, you can check check Xfinity’s modem compatibility list. Otherwise, read on to find a list of approved devices.

Xfinity Approved Modems

The best modem for Xfinity often translates into what is the best modem for your needs. Below you’ll find a list of modems recommended by Xfinity.

• ARRIS SURFboard S33: This cable modem is perfect for any Xfinity plan, reaching up to 2.33 Gbps of wired download speed.
• ARRIS SURFboard T25: With support for high-speed Internet, this is a great option for most plans.
• ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 This fast, efficient modem is a top choice for Xfinity users, supporting speeds up to 1 Gbps.
• Motorola mb8600: With support for speeds over 1 Gbps, this modem is a solid option for any household.
• Motorola mb7621: This cable modem supports Internet speeds up to 400 Mbps, making this a great option for smaller households.
• Netgear CM2050V: As a premium option, this modem will help you unleash the full potential of any Xfinity Internet plan.
• Netgear CM2000: With a max download speed of 2.5 Gbps, this is a premium modem for households looking for ultra fast speeds.

Xfinity Approved Routers

Curious about which routers work best with Comcast Xfinity approved modems? This list of modem/router combo devices recommended by Xfinity gives good guidance, but, in general, make sure your router is compatible with the modem you’re using. Also, choose a router that offers faster maximum speeds than what your plan advertises.

• ARRIS SURFboard G36: A perfect blend of performance and versatility, the G36 is fully compatible with Xfinity Internet and supports super high speeds.
• Motorola MT8733: This cable modem with a built-in router offers fast, multi-gigabit speeds. Plus, it supports up to two phone lines.
• NETGEAR CAX80: As a cable modem and WiFi 6 router combo, this device is perfect for delivering the highest Internet speeds.
• NETGEAR CAX30: This two-in-one device is designed to provide a smooth, uninterrupted connection for all online activities, be it work, play, or entertainment.

Cox Approved Modems and Routers

Have you just switched your ISP to Cox and are wondering about Cox compatible modems and routers? If you already have your own hardware and are just wondering whether you can use your own modem and/or router with Cox, check this Cox modem compatibility list.

Cox Approved Modems

There are a number of Cox compatible modems. Here are a couple of the more popular and readily available.

• ARRIS SURFboard G54: This is a premium modem that runs WiFi 7 and is compatible with Cox’s highest 2 Gbps Internet plan.
• Motorola MB8600 With high-speed support, this modem is a great fit for plans with speeds up to 1 Gbps.
• ARRIS SURFboard SB6190: As a great match for plans up to 500 Mbps, this modem can support gaming, streaming, remote working, and more.
• NETGEAR CM500: Even as an affordable option, this modem supports HD streaming, online gaming, and more.

Cox Approved Routers

To find a router that works with Cox, you need to simply ensure that it is compatible with your modem and that it supports the level of Internet speed you’ve chosen. If you’re looking for top-tier Internet speed, the routers below are capable of supporting 2 Gbps of service.

• Netgear Orbi RBKE963: This quad-band WiFi 6E mesh system is a powerful device that can handle any online activities.
• Asus ET12: This whole-home mesh system offers wide-ranging WiFi at a superior speed.
• Asus GT-AXE16000: As the first quad-band WiFi 6E gaming router, this will allow you to get the most out of even the fastest Internet plans.
• Asus GT-AX6000: This gaming router allows you to connect more devices and upgrades your online experience to the next level.
• TP-LINK AXE300: This router with a 6 GHz band offers faster speeds, more bandwidth, and near-zero latency.

Spectrum Approved Modems and Routers

Already have your own modem and/or router and wondering whether it’s compatible with Spectrum? Check out Check out Spectrum’s list of approved modems. If you’re looking to buy your own modem and/or router for Spectrum Internet service, keep reading.

Spectrum Approved Modems

There are a large number of modems that are currently compatible with Spectrum Internet — you just need to make sure that the modem you’re considering will fit well with your service plan.

• ARRIS SURFboard SB8200: This modem is great for Spectrum gig plans, as it makes use of DOCSIS 3.1 and supports download speeds of up to 2 Gbps.
• Linksys CG7500: This dual-band modem is perfect for Spectrum’s Internet Ultra plan that offers speeds up to 500 Mbps.
• NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80: As a modem and router combo that supports DOCSIS 3.1 and speeds up to 1 Gbps, it’s perfect for heavy-duty activities like 4K streaming, gaming, and more.

Spectrum Approved Routers

If you’re planning to purchase your own equipment, opting for a two-in-one modem and router combo device is a great way to get the reliability and speed you need. Here are some options that are compatible with Spectrum.

• NETGEAR C7800: This certified cable modem and router combo can support HD streaming on multiple devices, VR gaming, and more.
• ASUS CMAX6000: With WiFi speeds up to 6,000 Mbps, this gateway can handle even the busiest networks.
• Motorola MG8725: With multi-gigabit speed, this combo device is perfect for Spectrum’s fastest Internet plans.

Optimum Approved Modems and Routers

If you’re wondering, “Can I use my own router with Optimum?” or “Can I use my own modem with Optimum?”, the answer is yes! Follow these instructions to connect your approved Optimum modem and router to Optimum’s Internet service. If you’re wondering what Optimum-approved modem or router to buy, read on.

Optimum Approved Modems

Depending on the service you’ve chosen, and your household’s needs, here are a few excellent modem choices for Optimum customers.

• Arris SURFboard S33: This cable modem is best for cable Internet plans up to 2.5 Gbps.
• NETGEAR CM1000: This affordable modem is compatible with Optimum plans up to 1 Gbps.
• ARRIS SURFboard SB8200: Supporting speeds up to 2 Gbps, this modem offers fast streaming and downloading throughout your home.
• Motorola MG8702: This all-in-one device provides the speed, range, and reliability for a high performing online network.

Optimum Approved Routers

Here are a few routers that will work well with Optimum compatible modems.

• NETGEAR AX6000 CAX80: This WiFi 6 router has a built-in cable modem, giving your household the best Internet in one device.
• ARRIS SURFboard G36: This modem and router combo uses the latest technology to keep your home network running at peak performance.
• Linksys CG7500: This dual-band modem and WiFi router is a solid option for most households looking for a reliable connection.
• ASUS CM-32: Offering high speeds, this combination device is perfect for gaming and streaming.

Xtream Powered by Mediacom Approved Routers and Modems

Mediacom does allow residential customers to provide their own routers and modems. However, modems and routers must be DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1 or they won’t work, and Mediacom specifically recommends 3.1 so customers can hit the advertised speeds. To find the right option, see Mediacom’s list of compatible devices.

Xtream Powered by Mediacom Approved Modems

Here are a handful of high-quality modems that will work well with Mediacom Internet.

• ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 This modem is perfect for Xtream’s fast Internet. With DOCSIS 3.1, it can hit download speeds of up to 2 Gbps.
• NETGEAR CM1000: This is a solid choice for any of Mediacom’s mid-tier Internet plans.
• Motorola MB8600: This DOCSIS 3.1 modem supports high-speed Internet for streaming, gaming, and more.

Xtream Powered by Mediacom Approved Routers

Here are some routers to consider pairing with your Xtream compatible modem.

• NETGEAR CAX30: This combo device is perfect for households with high Internet use across multiple devices.
• NETGEAR CAX80: As a premium option, this powerful modem and router combo device can provide a seamless connection for everyone in your household.

Sparklight Approved Modems and Routers

Sparklight advises customers who do not rent their modems and routers from them to ensure they are at least a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem. Only cable modems (or eMTAs) work with Sparklight. DSL modems are not supported. Not sure if what you have has the right technology? Look through Sparklight’s list of compatible devices here.

Sparklight Approved Modems

When it comes to picking the right modem for your Sparklight Internet service, keep in mind the advertised speed and specs of your service plan. Make sure your modem can do at least what your service plan advertises.

• ARRIS SB8200: Compatible with many Internet providers, this modem offers reliable service for plans up to 1 Gbps.
• NETGEAR CM2000: This DOCSIS 3.1 router is a great option for high-speed plans.
• Hitron CODA56: This modem supports ultra-fast speeds, making it a perfect choice for households with many devices.

Sparklight Approved Routers

These routers pair well with the above approved Sparklight modems for fast household Wi-Fi.

• ARRIS G34: Offering unmatched reliability, this modem/router combo device provides the latest technology to power your network.
• NETGEAR C7800: With a modem/router of this quality, you can stream HD videos on multiple devices, run VR gaming, and more — all at once.
• NETGEAR CBR750: This mesh router with a built-in modem offers three WiFi bands, effectively eliminating network congestion and device interference.

GCI Approved Modems and Routers

GCI provides modems and routers (or combos) at no extra cost to their customers, so unless performance is an issue for you, trying to save money is of no concern. That being said, GCI does support customers utilizing their own modems and routers, although the list of certified modems is very small:

• NETGEAR CM1000: This modem is best for plans up to 1 Gbps.
• NETGEAR CM2000: This modem is best for plans up to 2.5 Gbps.

If you’re interested in using your own modem, router, or two-in-one device, contact GCI customer service at 1-800-800-4800 to ensure there won’t be any compatibility issues.

Fidelity Communications Approved Modems and Routers

Fidelity Communications offers broadband, DSL, fiber, and copper Internet service to its customers. It also provides a modem/router combo to its customers free of charge. While Fidelity will allow customers to bring their own modems and routers to the service, those devices must be at least DOCSIS 3.0.

Also, the type of Internet service you choose, which is sometimes dependent on your location, can also affect the type of modem — and therefore, router — you can use. Because of this, it’s best to contact Fidelity directly at 1-800-392-8070 to find out whether the modem and router you have are approved for the Fidelity Internet service you have.

Fidelity Communications Approved Modems

The type of Internet service you choose, along with your location, can determine the type of modem you’ll need. Below are some multi-gig options from Fidelity Communications’ approved list.

• ARRIS SURFboard S33: As a great option for multi-gigabit home networking, this modem can power any Internet activity in your household.
• Hitron CODA56: With a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, this modem allows your whole household to enjoy the fastest speeds your Internet plan can offer.
• Motorola MB8611: This ultra-fast modem can support multi-gigabit speeds for your whole home and can pair with the fastest routers.
• NETGEAR CM2000: A DOCSIS 3.1 modem like this allows you to take advantage of the best Internet speeds Fidelity Communications has to offer.

Fidelity Communications Approved Routers

If you are looking to achieve multi-gigabit speeds at home, below are some of the best modem/router combo devices available.

• ARRIS DG9450: This gateway device offers high-speed broadband performance to deliver a reliable connection throughout your whole home.
• ARRIS SURFboard G36: With this high-speed modem and WiFi 6 router, you can run the latest devices at peak performance.
• NETGEAR CAX80: This two-in-one cable modem and router combo is a premium device that can support even the fastest Internet speeds Fidelity Communications can offer.

Armstrong Approved Modems and Routers

Armstrong provides all in one devices for all their customers free of charge, but if you want to use your own modem and/or router to improve performance, be sure to purchase an Armstrong-compatible modem.

Armstrong Approved Modems

Armstrong has some remarkably fast Internet service. These modems can help make sure those advertised speeds are a reality in your home.

• ARRIS SURFboard SB8200: This modem is great for Zoom Extreme plans and will work with every type of Armstrong service. It utilizes DOCSIS 3.1 and can support download speeds as high as 2 Gbps.
• NETGEAR CM1000 As far as modems go, this is a popular choice across Internet providers due to its reliability and performance for plans up to 1 Gbps.

Armstrong Approved Routers

Though Armstrong subscribers do receive a mesh system with two pods to provide WiFi service, you are able to use your own routers. Here are some routers to use alongside your Armstrong compatible modems.

• TP-Link AX6600: This router is a premium option and offers peak performance with the Zoom Extreme plan.
• ASUS AC1900: With mesh networking, this is an affordable option for the Zoom or Zoom Express plans.

MCTV Ohio Approved Modems and Routers

MCTV high-speed Internet requires a cable modem. Customers can supply their own, or they can use one provided by MCTV, free of charge. MCTV’s list of compatible modems favors DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1 modems.

MCTV Ohio Approved Modems

• ARRIS DG1670A: This is a reliable modem for speeds up to 500 Mbps.
• ARRIS 6900: This DOCSIS 3.0 modem and router combo device offers a strong connection for lower tier plans up to 300 Mbps.

MCTV Approved Routers

Which routers work best with MCTV approved modems? Almost any — just be sure your router is compatible with the modem you’re using. Here are a couple routers that should ensure WiFi as fast as your plan advertises.

• TP-Link Archer A20: This router offers more than 1 Gbps on 5G bands, so you know it’s fast.
• NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 A reliable dual-band router that also offers parental controls.

Hargray Approved Modems and Routers

Hargray provides DSL and cable modems as part of its broadband service. However, customers can use their own device, as long as it supports Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE).

If you are unsure whether your modem, router, or gateway device is compatible, it’s best to contact Hargray directly at 877-427-4729.

Is it Better to Buy Your Own Modem and Router?

Regardless of whether you’re hoping to save money or improve your Internet experience, supplying your own modem, router, or two-in-one modem/router combo can make a lot of sense.

The decision to buy or rent equipment ultimately comes down to the price of the rental, the quality of the devices, and what you’re looking to get out of your Internet plan.

There are dozens of Internet service providers out there, but it’s likely that, depending on where you live, you only have a handful — or fewer — to choose from.

Follow this guide to find the best options for your ISP, and if you’re looking for a new Internet provider, let SmartMove help.