Cable modem upgrade

[mirhaddolic]

If my ISP has 16 download channels available and only 3 upload channels available do I have to buy a modem that is able to support those download and upload channels 16x4 or can I buy some modems that support up to 8x4 channels.? Right now I have a modem that supports up to 32x8 channels. Just wondering what would happen if I go with just a modem that's able to support 16x4 channels or even 8x4?

 

[bill001g]

Most important thing it to buy a modem/router that the ISP says they will support. There are many devices that technically will work but the ISP will not allow them...mostly because they don't want to have to train their staff to support too many devices.

If you have a modem that does 32/8 that is likely going to be good for a very long time to come. Your device will just negotiate with the cable company equipment how many channels to use. If you isp uses 16/3 and you have a 8/4 it would likely negotiate 8/3. The 2 devices will agree on the highest possible configuration both can support.

Pretty much this is why you can move cable modems between providers and buy your own devices. Unlike many years ago all this stuff is now based on standards (ie DOCSIS) that all the providers have agreed to.