How To Activate a Modem on Xfinity? [3 Easy Ways]

Got a new modem for your Xfinity internet connection? It’s time to activate it on the Comcast network. There are 3 ways you can activate a third-party modem or even the ISP-rented one; they’re:

• Using the Xfinity App
• Using Xfinity Web Portal (https://xfinity.com/activate)
• Using Xfinity Customer Support (Activation phone number: 800-934-6489)

Before writing this up, I activated the ARRIS S33 using the listed methods. Also, to further make it easy, I’ve added a step-by-step procedure for each method below. Choose the method you’re comfortable with, follow the steps, and voila!

How To Activate an Xfinity Modem? [Rented or Own]

Once you switch the device on, you’ll notice the online light blinking. Wait for it to stabilize. After that, you can proceed with the Xfinity modem activation methods explained below.

1. Activate Using Xfinity App

Step 1: Go to the store, download, and install the Xfinity App. Once you’ve installed it on your smartphone, open it.

Step 2: Click on the ‘Create one’ link, and enter the subscription details, your mobile number, and your email id. Set up a username and password, and you’ll be able to use the application after the details are verified.

Step 3: Open the App and tap on ‘sign in‘.

Step 4: Once you’ve signed in, click on the icon on the left corner, It will take you to a page with all the details regarding your account and devices connected to it.

Step 5: Scroll down to the bottom and click on the ‘Activate XFi gateway or modem‘.

Step 6: You can capture the details of the Xfinity gateway through the camera via QR code or by entering the details highlighted details manually.

Step 7: Once you’ve entered the details, now the App will ask you to ensure if the gateway is powered up and the coaxial cable is connected.

Step 8: Click next, as we have already completed the step beforehand. Your Xfinity gateway is a modem-router combo.

Now, you’ll have to create a WiFi name and password. Customers are advised not to use the details mentioned underneath the gateway. Enter the details and click done.

Step 9: Now, wait until Xfinity sets up and activates the device.

This step will take anywhere between 5-10 minutes. Once you are done, The App will ask you to confirm the WiFi details in the last step of the process.

Step 10: Note the WiFi name and password and keep it secure. Note down the Voice number mentioned below for future reference. Click Confirm and Finish up.

Now, you’ll be able to connect your devices to the WiFi network using the password you set up.

2. Activate Using Xfinity Portal

If you’re wondering how to set up the Xfinity modem without an App, there is an easier way for the old schoolers to complete the Xfinity internet installation.

Step 1: Once you’ve powered up your gateway or modem, connect an Ethernet cable to one end of the modem and the other to a laptop.

Your connections should look like this:

Step 2: Open a browser on your laptop and visit http://xfinity.com/activate.

Step 3: Click here to start the process.

Step 4: The process remains similar to the Xfinity App, where you have to create an Xfinity ID and Password.

Step 5: Use the created Xfinity ID or the mobile number in your subscription to verify the account details with OTP and kick-start the activation.

Next, you might notice orange light, which means it’s upgrading the firmware and getting ready. It may take 10-12 minutes for the lights to stabilize.

Step 6: Irrespective of the xFi gateway or the own modem, the setup remains the same. If your modem doesn’t feature a wireless function, you’ll need a separate router that’s good for Xfinity.

Note that they’ll provide a coverage range of 1,500-2,500 Sq Ft at best. Large home owners should consider getting a good Xfinity-compatible mesh WiFi and establish a mesh network instead.

3. Get it Activated by Customer Support

If you want to avoid the hassle of self-install Comcast internet with your modem/gateway, you can call customer support to help you with the activation.

Power up your Xfinity gateway or your modem & router, connect all the cables mentioned in the first step and call Xfinity customer support at this number: 800-934-6489. Keep the 12 Digit CM-MAC of the Xfinity gateway or your modem handy.

Furnish the details to the support technician and initiate the activation process. It takes 5-10 minutes to complete the Xfinity internet installation. You’ll then be able to use your Xfinity ID to change the wifi details, set up parental controls, and manage your internet.