Spectrum Cable and Internet
Installation Guide
Our Installation Guide
Let us walk you through the process of installing your Spectrum Cable and Internet — self-installation — and how to get the most out of your services. Learn how to use the Spectrum Self-Install Kit, setup Wi-Fi and whether you should rent or purchase equipment.
Ways to Install Cable TV & Internet
Installing your Cable TV and Internet services have never been easier. With support and videos, Spectrum offers lots of information to help you through the process. Traditionally, you can have a technician come out to your home and set up your services. However with COVID-19 and safety precautions, many people are choosing to self-install.
Depending on your preference, you can choose to:
- Call in a Spectrum technician
- Self-install Spectrum Cable and Internet
This guide will teach you how to self-install.
Pros and Cons of Self-Installation
Self-installing your cable TV and Internet may seem like a hassle but with information available here and on Spectrum.net, the process doesn’t have to be a headache. If you’re on the fence about whether to self-install or call in the experts, check the pros and cons list below.
Pros of self-installation:
- Get all equipment delivered to you
- Limit people coming into your home
- No installation fee
Cons of self-installation:
- No professional help & in-person troubleshooting
- Your home may not be eligible
- Requires some technical expertise
How to Use Spectrum Self-Install Kit
Connecting your Spectrum Internet is easier than ever with the Spectrum Self-Install Kit. Once you have signed on for Spectrum services, they will mail you a Self-Install Kit. The kit provides you with all of the equipment and cables necessary to set up your Internet service and start surfing the web.
Per their website: There’s high demand for new equipment during this national emergency. Delivery of self-install kits may take longer than expected. Set your communication preferences to receive confirmation and tracking number(s) when your equipment has shipped.
What Does the Self-Install Internet Kit Include
The kit comes complete with:
- Instructions
- Modem
- Coax Cables
- Ethernet Cable
- Coax Splitter
The Self-Install Cable TV kit includes:
- Connect Modem
- Connect Modem to Computer or Wi-Fi Router
- Activate Modem Online
Watch this easy-to-follow video to see how to install.
How to Self-Install Internet
The Spectrum Self-Install Kit can be set-up in three easy steps.
1 Connect Modem
- Connect one end of your coax cable to your Modem and the other end to your cable outlet.
- Connect the power cord to your Modem and plug the other end to the electrical outlet.
- Wait for the Modem to connect to the network. When the 'Online Status' light is solid, that means it's connected.
2 Connect Modem to Computer or Wi-Fi Router
- Now that your Modem is set up, you can connect the Ethernet Cable from the Modem to your computer
- If you are using Wi-Fi, connect the other end of the Ethernet Cable to your wireless router
3 Activate Modem Online
- Now you can activate your Modem. Go to Spectrum.net/selfinstall from your computer or mobile phone
- Click 'Get Started' and follow instructions
- Once you're activated, don't forget to create a username and manage your account on Spectrum.net
How to Self-Install Spectrum Cable
Similar to the Spectrum Self-Install Internet Kit, you can self-install your cable service by ordering equipment and following the installation process.
1 Connect your Spectrum Receiver
- Connect your Coax Cable to your receiver and the other end to the cable outlet
- Connect the HDMI Cable to your receiver and the other end to your TV
- Connect the Power Cord to the receiver and to the electrical outlet. The receiver will turn on automatically
- Insert batteries into your Remote
- Turn on your TV and select the HDMI source using either INPUT or SOURCE on the Remote
- The receiver will begin downloading a firmware update
2 Activate your Spectrum Receiver
- Now you can activate your modem. Go to Spectrum.net/selfinstall from your computer or mobile phone
- Follow the on-screen instructions
How to Self-Install Spectrum Wi-Fi
Connecting to your wireless network is easy. If your equipment is activated (Modem and Wireless Router) you can begin
-
Connect a Device to your Wireless Router
-
Change your Wi-Fi Name and Password
-
Optimize your Wi-Fi Network
1 Connect a Device to your Wireless Router
- Find your Spectrum Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password on the back of your Spectrum Router
- Open the wireless settings on your device (computer, phone, etc.) and select the right 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz network
- Enter in the default password from the back of the router
2 Change your Wi-Fi Name and Password
Spectrum recommends changing your Wi-Fi name and password for added security.
- Find your specific router model here and follow instructions to change your Wi-Fi name and password
- Add 5 GHz and 2.5 GHz to the end of your new Wi-Fi name to identify each network
3 Optimize your Wi-Fi Network
- For optimal service, place your router in a central location away from water, metal and other appliances
- View your Wi-Fi name and password in your Spectrum account
Renting vs Buying Equipment
Spectrum rents out all its Cable TV and Internet equipment and while it is on lease, it remains the property of Spectrum. If you are thinking of upgrading, downgrading, or cancelling your Spectrum service, all equipment must be returned. Here are the costs of equipment rental with Spectrum.
| Device | Fee |
|---|---|
| TV receiver with DVR & remote | $7.99 / month |
| Self-install kit | $9.99 / one-time fee |
| Modem equipment rental | Included |
| Wireless router | $5.00 / month |