Are you looking for a modem that’s compatible with your internet provider? Why get a RANDOM device that’s compatible when I”ve handpicked the best-rated modems for popular internet providers in the US:
If you’re getting a standalone router and not a modem/router combo, then you’ll need to get a compatible router to make your connection wireless.
Is Modem ISP Compatibility Important?
Yes, compatibility of the modem with the internet service provider is very important. You can’t use an incompatible modem.
The basic job of any cable modem is to modulate and demodulate analog signals and convert them into digital signals. And every single modem available does the same job, right? Yes, so why do I need to pick a modem that’s compatible with my service provider?
Well, not all modems are equal. They’re all different specs-wise — DOCSIS version, channel bonding, the type of connection (DSL, Fiber, Ethernet), and many other factors such as training technical staff.
Different Scenarios Why You Need To Buy Your Own Modem Instead of Renting it
Scenario 1: You may end up buying a cheap modem with 4×4 channel bonding, and the service provider might not be supporting it.
It’s because, on a larger scale, they want the users to get the speeds they’ve subscribed for. And allowing users to use any random modem can create a lot of support issues too.
Scenario 2: Your cable internet provider offers connectivity via DOCSIS 3.0 or DOCSIS 3.1 tech, whereas the cable modem you got is only capable of handling DOCSIS 2.0. In that case, you won’t be able to use it because of technical compatibility.
Scenario 3: Back then, internet connections were provided using DSL (which also has 3 other subcategories — ADSL, SDSL, RADSL), then they shifted to cable (coaxial-cable), and now many providers are shifting to Fiber optic cables. Imagine you got a DSL modem; how would it work with your connection?
Scenario 4: Imagine all the above scenarios happening together (Yes, it happens.)
Besides, most cable internet companies pick a selected list of modems based on the specifications, match it with the internet plans they’re offering, and test them to deliver the best possible performance to their customers. So when an issue appears, they can use their trained technician to solve it.
Does this mean I should just pay their monthly rental and use the internet equipment provided by them?
No, you shouldn’t rent a cable modem provided by your cable internet provider. You should rather pick a cable modem based on your internet plan (get something that supports speeds above your internet plan), technical setup, and BUY IT.
If you’re still confused, read this: Modem Buying vs Renting: What’s More Beneficial?
Also, their certified/compatible/approved modem list includes some bad modems, so avoid picking them. They’ll work, but the experience sucks.
Is there any trustworthy resource to help me find a list of Good Modems that are compatible with or approved/certified by my Internet Service provider?
Well, helping people find the best cable modem or modem/router combo according to their needs is the reason why I started ApprovedModems.org.
I continuously test modems with different service providers with different service packages and then make the lists.
There are times when some of the modems listed above might not work (they actually work, you have to tell the call-support team that your neighbor is using the same exact modem and it’s working for them, this sorts the issue most of the time.) In case, it doesn’t get sorted, the return it to Amazon/BestBuy.
