Is it better to buy or lease a cable modem?

Pay upfront to save long term Buying a modem and router will increase your upfront costs, but lower your monthly internet bill. Most tech experts suggest buying separate devices, but a combo unit will get the job done if you’re trying to keep things simple. Either way, you’ll save money in the long run.

Is it better to buy a separate modem and router?

Unsurprisingly, the most significant difference is the most obvious: you either have one physical hardware device or two separate devices. A modem router combo is less bulky, and you save some space. You also free outlet space, making it easier to plug in a gateway wherever you need it.

Can I replace my modem myself?

Installing your own modem will likely save you money. Upgrading to a newer modem may give you faster speeds, especially if you’re subscribed to one of the higher-speed packages. But also understand your ISP will likely upgrade or replace your rental modem for free in these cases as well.

Does it matter what modem you use?

No, not any modem will do. In fact, using the wrong modem can significantly limit the speed of your internet connection. In this post we’ll take a close look at modems and what you can do to make sure your modem is helping to optimize your internet connection.

Why are modems and routers separate?

Getting a separate router and modem gives you a lot of flexibility because if you want to upgrade your home network to have faster speed or more features, you just need to replace the router. What’s more, most routers on the market have more settings and features than the router part of a combo device.

How often should you upgrade your modem?

That means you should expect to replace your cable modem at least every four to seven years if you want the fastest, highest quality connection possible. However, cable internet service providers don’t always adopt new standards immediately.