Help/Advice on wireless routers and cable moderm.

[itachigo]

yeaaaaaaaaaah! so I receive the Comcast self installation kit in the mail the other day. The cable modem that came with the kit does not have wireless compatibility. Anyway, Will it be best to buy a new Cable modem with wireless compatibility or a wireless router that have the ability to connect to a Cable modem? If any, would you guys recommend me something with a great WiFi range?

Here is a list of compatibility Comcast devices.

http://customer.comcast.com/help-and-support/internet/comcast-supported-routers-gateways-adapters/

 

[USAFRet]

Use the Comcast supplied modem, and buy and attach a separate WiFi capable router.

As far as which one? There are dozens from Amazon or Newegg.

 

[reedo_43]

I would go with a single unit. The first thing comcast will tell you when you call them for support is to unplug your non-supported wireless router. Less hardware, less to go wrong. Just my opinion...

 

[itachigo]

Thanks! I really don't want to wait for one to be deliver. the Netgear WNR1000 from the Comcast site seem to be in stock at a local target store.

 

[reedo_43]

That netgear is a fine router so go for it!

 

[itachigo]

I would go with a single unit. The first thing comcast will tell you when you call them for support is to unplug your non-supported wireless router. Less hardware, less to go wrong. Just my opinion...

So you know from experience. I assume you weren't successful in getting a router to work with the modem, why? Will I have to call Comcast to activate the router as well?

 

[USAFRet]

I would go with a single unit. The first thing comcast will tell you when you call them for support is to unplug your non-supported wireless router. Less hardware, less to go wrong. Just my opinion...

So you know from experience. I assume you weren't successful in getting a router to work with the modem, why? Will I have to call Comcast to activate the router as well?

Almost any consumer grade router will work with that modem. Pretty much anything available at Newegg or Amazon.

As far as the support comment earlier...yes the tier 1 support guy will generally ask you to disconnect from the router, and plug directly into the modem. This is just to eliminate the router as being the problem.

I suggested two discreet devices, because you can then change one or the other as needed. If Comcast comes up with a new protocol (beyond DOCIS 3), all you'd need is a new modem. The existing router would still work.

Of you if you wanted to upgrade the router...you'd just need to change that. Rather than change the modem+router box.
All Comcast sees is the 'modem'. The do not see or care what device (router/PC/Xbox/etc) you have behind that.

Either way will work. Modem+router in one box, or modem and router in two different boxes.

 

[itachigo]

Alright! Thanks Guys!