Can you imagine a day without the internet? Internet connectivity has become an indispensable thing in our lives. A stable and fast internet connection is necessary for uninterrupted working or streaming or gaming. A modem acts as an internet provider to deliver internet services right on your table. Technically, it will pick up analog signals from the internet provider and transform it into your digital stream.
Many models of modems come with two in one or three in one purpose these days. Some are Modem + Router combo, while some are Modem + Router + Gigabit port. These multi-purposive modems are in great demand and are highly efficient. The modem serves as an intermediate device to receive and deliver data to you. There is an LED light in modems usually to indicate whether the device is connected or not and to judge the quality or speed of the internet connection.
Internet speed is the crucial factor you should look at before purchasing a modem. Prefer to buy modems that support high-speed internet. You could also look at other features such as the ISP compatibility and modem built. You should make sure your modern is compatible with your internet service provider. You can also opt for modems with classic outlook and uncompromising features. Though modems with 1 port will suffice for basic internet connectivity, you can opt for modems with extra ports if you are planning to connect several devices for a smart home or mini office.
Modems are a great replacement for the rental modems. You do not want to keep changing your modem now and then. So, look for a modem with good durability. The modem you purchase must also be compatible with your internet plans. We have shortlisted some of the best modems in the market that are approved by Sparklight. These modems are of great speed and are suitable for major computers. They are also qualified for good internet standards by Sparklight.
12 Best Sparklight Compatible Modems in 2023 (List Approved by Sparklight)
Image
Product
Features
Price
Netgear C6300 WiFi Cable Modem Router Combo
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ARRIS Surfboard SBG7580AC
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TP-Link TC-W7960
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Motorola MG7700
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Netgear CM500
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ARRIS SURFboard SBG6580
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NETGEAR C3000-100NAS N300
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NETGEAR Orbi CBR40
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NETGEAR CM400
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NETGEAR Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi Router (C6230)
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Netgear C7500-100NAS Nighthawk
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Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem
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1. Netgear C6300 WiFi Cable Modem Router Combo
- WiFi Router + Cable Modem combo
- DOCSIS 3.0-based cable modem
- Supports up to 680Mbps modem speed and provides Dual-Band WiFi Speed
Netgear C6300 is a 3 in 1 DOCSIS 3.0 modem approved by Sparklight. The modem can also serve as a WiFi router and 4 Gigabit wired switch. The modem is known for its brand value and trustworthy performance. The modem is made of good built and has a fine exterior. The DOCSIS 3.0 modem offers a better downloading speed than its predecessor DOCSIS 2.0.
The modem is compatible with Xfinity from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, CableONE, etc. It is an apt choice for you to download intensive files at high speed. You can even play online gaming and binge-watch movies on high-speed internet. The modem offers to speed up to 680 Mb per second. The WiFi speed of this modem is also great and it allows dual-band transmission of 2.4GHz & 5GHz.
The modem is perfect for internet plans up to 500 Mb per second. The upload speed is up to 140 Mb per second. The modem supports Microsoft Windows 10, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, UNIX, or Linux. The modem comes with 4 ethernet ports and 1 USB 2.0 port. There are 16 * 4 channels provided by the modem. You can create a separate WiFi network using the modem for your guests or friends. This will come in handy to make a wired connection anywhere it is set up.
Another added feature of this modem is, it offers Parental control features. Parents do not have to worry about their children getting access to unwanted websites. You can take control over it to block them. The Netgear genie app will provide you network control through your smartphone. Netgear provides a product warranty for up to 2 years. The modem comes at a reasonable and affordable price for the features it offers.
Pros
- Internet speed up to 680 Mbps
- 4 ethernet ports with 1 USB 2.0 port
- 16 * 4 channels
- Parental control features
- 2 years warranty
- Netgear genie app
- Router and Modem combo
Cons
- Some users complain of durability issues
2. ARRIS Surfboard SBG7580AC
- Combo of cable modem + WiFi router
- Runs on DOCSIS 3.0 tech
- Supports download speeds up to 1.4 Gbps
ARRIS Surfboard SBG7580AC modem is a three in one modem that can be used as a modem, WiFi router, and 4 Port Gigabit Router. The modem is compatible with XFINITY, Cox, Charter cable providers in the US. It does not support ATT, Verizon, or CenturyLink.
ARRIS Surfboard modem comes with 32 download channels and 8 upload channels. The modem supports an internet speed of 300 Mb per second and more. The dual-band AC1750 WiFi router is of 2.4 / 5.0 GHz speed. The modem meets the IPv4 and IPv6 Internet standards.
It has 4 gigabit Ethernet ports. These ports are best for connecting to PlayStations and gaming computers. The modem brand provides a warranty period of up to 2 years. The modem is capable of downloading speed up to 1.4 Gb per second. This will be of amazing use for downloading of intensive files and for hardcore gamers.
You can game 24 * 7 with high-speed internet, without a lag. The WiFi speed is up to 1750 Mb per second. The modem is a great escape from annoying buffers while watching favorite HD videos. The modem is a bit pricy but reasonable for all the wonderful features it offers.
Pros
- Modem + WiFi router combo
- 32 * 8 channels
- Supports internet speed up to 1750 Mbps
- WiFi speed is best for gamers
- 4-gigabit ethernet ports
- Downloading speed up to 1.4 Gbps
- Numerous connectivity options
Cons
- No cons
3. TP-Link TC-W7960
- Wireless router + Cable modem combo device
- Can provide WiFi speeds up to 300Mbps
- DOCSIS 3.0 with channel bonding of up to 8 downstream and 4 upstream channels
TP-Link TC-W7960 is a wireless modem that is popularly known for its brand value. With TP-Link at your hands, you can say goodbye to rental modems. The modem is of a 2 in 1 feature, which can also be used as a WiFi router. The WiFi router is incorporated with DOCSIS 3.0 technology. The WiFi provides speed up to 2.4 GHz. TP-Link modem comes with 4 Gigabit LAN ports to simplify your networking.
The modem works with an upload speed of 143 Mb per second and download speed is up to 343 Mb per second. The modem offers good speed for cable internet plans. It supports cable internet plans of speed up to 150 Mb per second. Additional features such as parental control and guest networking is an added advantage in this modem.
The modem is compatible with ISPs such as XFINITY from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, Suddenlink, Mediacom, and WOW. The modem works great to provide you uninterrupted internet service. You can play stream HD movies, download large files, and play hardcore online games at high speed without any lags.
The modem comes with 8 downstream channels and 4 upstream channels. TP-Link provides 2 years of warranty for this modem-router combo. You can contact the technical support of TP-Link whenever you face a technical issue. They are available 24/7. The modem is affordable prices. Networking is made easy with this two in one device.
Pros
- Upload speed 143 Mbps and download speed 343 Mbps
- Cable internet speeds up to 150 Mbps
- Parental control features
- Guest networking option
- 8 * 4 channels
- 2 years warranty
- 24/7 technical support
- DOCSIS 3.0 certified WiFi router
- 4 Gigabit LAN ports
Cons
- Some users complain about the connectivity issues because of the wireless feature
4. Motorola MG7700
- Cable modem based on 24×8 DOCSIS 3.0 technology
- WiFi Router built-in along with cable modem
- Supports maximum speeds up to 1 Gbps
Motorola MG7700 modem is also a WiFi router. With DOCSIS 3.0 technology, this modem + router will serve your internet purpose well with its fast speed and performance. The WiFi Gigabit router is of dual-band feature: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The modem comes with 4 Ethernet ports to increase your networking and productivity.
The modem is capable of supporting internet speed up to 1900 Mb per second. This is an excellent speed level when compared to its peers. The modem allows download speed up to 600+ Mb per second. You can connect various devices to the modem such as laptops, smartphones, computers, etc to receive high-speed internet.
The modem has WiFi amplifiers to boost power for better performance. It also provides firewall security. The modem comes with a Broadcom cable modem chipset to prevent you from denial of service attacks. The modem is compatible with major cable service providers such as Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter spectrum.
It is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, and another fiber optic, satellite, or DSL services. While the AC1900 WiFi router is wireless, the wired four Gigabit Ethernet ports can be connected with many devices to provide high-speed internet. The modem is built smartly that it will not consume too much of your space. Motorola provides 2 years of warranty for this device.
Pros
- Modem + WiFi router
- DOCSIS 3.0 technology
- Supports great speed up to 1900 Mbps
- 600+ Mbps speed for downloading
- Firewall security
- Smart structure to save space
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- 2 years warranty
- Wifi with dual-band feature
Cons
- Technical support is not very supportive
5. Netgear CM500
- Offers a maximum download speed of 400 Mbps
- Only a cable modem, does not come with a built in wireless router
- Features 1 x Gigabit Ethernet port on the back
Netgear CM500 modem is a modem that is compatible with major internet service providers, including Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. It is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, Century Link, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service. The modem will serve your internet needs best with its uninterrupted high-speed internet.
With a Netgear modem, you can save a huge rental cost every month. Netgear CM500 modem is known for its best speed and performance. The modem is capable of supporting internet plans up to 300 Mb per second. You can connect your wireless devices like laptops, smartphones, etc. to the modem through its Ethernet port.
The modem comes with 1 gigabit Ethernet port, which can be used to connect a computer or WiFi router. When many modem models provide up to 4 port numbers, the single Gigabit port feature in this modem is comparatively a drawback. You can connect only one device to this port. If you connect your PC to this port, you won’t be able to connect a WiFi router, and vice versa.
The modem is incorporated with 16 * 4 channels. The modem uses DOCSIS 3.0 technology to deliver fast internet service. The price of the modem is affordable and reasonable for the options it provides. The modem is built in a vertical-narrow shape and tends to save some of your desk space. The modem comes with 2 years of warranty.
Pros
- Compatible with major ISPs
- High speed and stable internet connection
- Supports internet plans up to 300 Mbps
- 2 years warranty
- Affordable price
- Smart built
- 16 * 4 channels
Cons
- Only 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Not a router + modem combination
6. ARRIS SURFboard SBG6580
- Cable modem which features a built-in N300 WiFi router
- DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with 8×4 channel bonding
- Features 4 LAN ports on the back
ARRIS Surfboard SBG6580 is a cable modem + WiFi router combo that has efficient features to provide high-speed internet connectivity. The modem is compatible with major ISPs, including Comcast Xfinity, Time Warner Cable, Charter, Cox, Cablevision, and more. You can contact your ISP to know whether the modem is compatible with your ISP.
The modem is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, and CenturyLink. The modem is approved with DOCSIS 3.0 technology. The N300 WiFi router will provide a stable and uninterrupted internet connection. The modem supports internet plans with speed up to 100 Mb per second.
It comes with 8 download and 4 upload channels, which are capable of download speed up to 343 Mb per second. With these channels, you cannot expect ultra-fast internet speed, but good steady internet. The modem supports IPv4 and IPv6 Internet browsing standards. With 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, you can connect 4 devices to get a great internet connection.
The WiFi router has a dual-band feature: 2.4 / 5.0 GHz. You can switch it according to your internet activity. With affordable prices and smart design, the modem is an ideal choice for your home or mini office. The device comes with a 1 year warranty period.
Pros
- Modem + WiFi router combo
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Supports IPv4 and IPv6 internet standards
- Compatible with major ISPs
- Dual-band feature
- 343 Mbps download speed
- 1-year warranty
- Support Internet plans up to 100 Mbps
Cons
- Needs to be rebooted often
- Fewer channels
7. NETGEAR C3000-100NAS N300
- Cable modem and WiFi Router combo
- Cable modem functions on a DOCSIS 3.0 technology
- Features 2 LAN ports and 1 USB port on the back
Netgear C3000-100NAS N300 is a DOCSIS 3.0 modem that is approved by Sparklight. The modem is also an N300 WiFi router. It has 2 Gigabit wired switches. The modem is known for its brand value and stable performance. The latest DOCSIS 3.0 modem offers a better speed than its predecessor DOCSIS 2.0.
The modem is compatible with Xfinity from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, CableONE, etc. The modem is not compatible with cable bundled voice services. It is an apt choice for you to download intensive files at high speed. You can play online gaming and binge-watch movies on good-speed internet. The modem offers to speed up to 340 Mb per second.
The WiFi speed of this modem is also great and it allows band transmission of 2.4GHz. The modem comes with Parental control features. Parents do not have to worry about their children getting access to unwanted websites. You can take control over it and block them. The model comes with a one-year warranty.
The Netgear genie app will provide you with network control through your smartphone. You can monitor your network easily through this app. The modem supports wireless networks with great efficiency. Netgear modem provides you secured wireless connection using WPA / WPA2. You can set this device easily for your smartphone or laptop or tablet.
Pros
- DOCSIS 3.0 protocol
- Modem + WiFi router
- Compatible with major ISPs
- Supports speed up to 340 Mb per second
- Secured access using WPA / WPA2
- Easy setup
- Parental control feature
- Netgear genie app
- Affordable price
Cons
- Offers only 2 ethernet ports
8. NETGEAR Orbi CBR40
- Cable modem + WiFi router combo
- DOCSIS 3.0 based modem with 32×8 channel bonding
- Supports an area up to 2000 sq. ft.
This model of Netgear is a modem + WiFi router that provides excellent internet speed. The modem comes in pure white color. With dual-band wireless internet feature and DOCSIS 3.0 technology, this modem plus router is the best choice for ultra-fast internet speed. There are over 32 x 8 channels in the model to deliver uninterrupted and speed connection.
The router is proven to be efficient for the stable and fast streaming of videos, gaming, and other downloading usages. The router supports internet speed up to 2.2 Gb per second. This is the greatest speed you could ever imagine for your home. Even with many connected devices, you can expect this speed. The upload speed of the modem is up to 300 Mb per second.
There are 4 Ethernet ports available to provide a wired internet connection to your PC, laptop, or gaming devices. The brand offers parental control features to keep your children away from unwanted sites. You can take control over the internet content reaching your children. You can also create a guest network through the Orbi app.
The device is compatible with major Internet Service Providers such as Xfinity from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, etc. It is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, and Gigabit service. Netgear provides 2 years of warranty for the modem.
Pros
- Modem + Router combo
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Speed up to 2.2 Gbps
- 2 years warranty
- DOCSIS 3.0 protocol
- 32 * 8 channels
- Parental control
- Guest networking option
Cons
- Bit expensive
- Customer support quite unresponsive
9. NETGEAR CM400
- Only a cable modem, does not feature built-in wireless internet support
- Supports up to 340Mbps download and upload speed
- Up to 8 times faster than DOCSIS 2.0 based cable modems
Netgear CM400 modem comes with DOCSIS 3. 0 technology to support high-speed internet connection. This is a cable modem that does not have router options. However, it comes with 1 Gigabit Ethernet port, which has auto-sensing technology.
The modem supports download and upload speed up to 340Mbps. You need to buy a separate router for WiFi functions, as this is not a router-modem combo. The modem has over 8 x 4 channels. The modem works great for streaming high definition videos, gaming, and large files downloading.
Your internet plans must be of a higher range to get a high-speed internet connection from the modem. The modem is compatible with ISPs such as Xfinity from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, etc. You can contact your ISP to know more.
The modem is not compatible with bundled voice services. The modem’s memory storage capacity is about 64.0 MB. It is of very affordable price for the feature it offers. The modem is a basic one for people opting for just a modem and not a router.
Pros
- DOCSIS 3.0 protocol
- Supports high-speed internet up to 340 Mbps
- Compatible with major ISPs
- Affordable price
Cons
- Only 1 Ethernet port
- Not a WiFi router
10. NETGEAR Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi Router (C6230)
- Features built-in wireless internet support, provides wireless speeds up to 1200 Mbps
- DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with 16×4 channel bonding
- Easy to control using the Nighthawk mobile app
While we have mentioned quite a few picks of Netgear modems in the list of products already, we were pretty sure that we had to include the NETGEAR Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi Router (C6230) without a doubt.
Not only is it priced under $100, but the product is also one of the best in terms of quality and overall functions. The device is specifically designed and developed for users who have ISPs supporting up to 300 Mbps internet speed.
Despite being such an affordable option, the cable modem is also highly functional and compatible with some of the major internet providers, which is another one of the reasons why it is such a popular option for you to consider looking into.
The dual-band functions offer maximum coverage without any kinds of complaints. If you are one of those people with dead internet zones in your home, you wouldn’t have to worry about the same with this one at all.
The best thing about buying the Netgear modem is the fact that it saves you a lot of money that you would’ve otherwise paid on the rental fees for the accessory equipment. Also, the device supports versatile connectivity options using the Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Additionally, the modem technology in this machine is backed with the DOCSIS 3.0 and 16×4 channel bonding functions too. Also, you get your standard security functions with the parental controls, which is another reason why you wouldn’t regret getting the same.
Pros
- Affordable and priced under $100
- Highly compatible with major internet service providers
- Backed with parental controls
- Offer maximum coverage
- Supports up to 300 Mbps wifi speed
Cons
- Does get heated pretty often
11. Netgear C7500-100NAS Nighthawk
- Cable modem + WiFi router combo
- Supports internet plans up to 400 Mbps
- Features 4 LAN ports and 1 USB port on the back
Netgear Nighthawk C7500-100NAS modem is a 3 in 1 modem that can act as a modem, router, and Gigabit switch. The modem is incorporated with the latest DOCSIS 3.0 protocol to support a high-speed internet connection. The modem is compatible with Xfinity from Comcast, Cox, and Spectrum.
The AC3200 WiFi Router will be of great efficiency to provide the internet to your wireless devices. There are 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports to connect 4 devices to your modem. With DOCSIS 3.0 protocol, the modem offers great downloading speed. There are over 24 * 8 channels in this modem. With a higher number of channels, you can expect great performance and speed.
The modem supports major computer OS including Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 10, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, UNIX, Linux, etc. The modem is apt for streaming 4K HD videos, intensive file downloading, and hardcore gaming. It comes with a warranty of up to 2 years.
The modem comes with a 1.0 GHz processor to deliver amazing performance. The router supports downloading speed up to 500 Mb per second. The upload speed of the modem is up to 300 Mb per second. The modem is designed in such a way to connect devices in all four ports simultaneously.
Pros
- DOCSIS 3.0 protocol
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Modem + Router combo
- 2 years warranty
- Download speed up to 500 Mbps
- 24 * 8 channels
- Great performance with no lags
Cons
- The modem design is out of style and vulnerable to damage
12. Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem
- Uses the DOCSIS 3.1 framework
- Only cable modem, not a router
- One LAN Port and one coax cable port on the back
Netgear’s CM1000 is named so because of the fact that it gives you a 1000 Mbps internet access. This makes it an instant favorite among cable internet users who are on a 1Gbps plan. The modem is very well suited for a number of cable based Internet Service Providers, but it is one of the best modems for Spectrum internet connections because it has specifically been approved by the ISP.
When you buy this modem, you are basically saving yourself the extra $168 that you are paying to your ISP in yearly modem rentals. Basically, after one year’s usage, the modem is free of cost to you as you would otherwise be paying the same amount every year. The modem is well built and ensures that it does not heat up too much. It has an angular build to it, and the vertical design is quite a space-saver too.
One thing to note here is that this is only a cable modem and does not come with a built-in wireless router. You will need to buy an additional router and hook it to the modem’s ethernet port in order to get wireless internet access. There’s only one LAN port on the back but that’s all you need. You can connect it with a router and the use the router’s ports to get wired internet.
The modem is quite easy to set up and gets ready to use in about five minutes, as claimed by Netgear. Thankfully, you can choose any wireless router you want and there are no limitations there. Some modems actually limit their users on using routers of a certain brand/framework. Being a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, it gives you really fast speeds, which is a direct benefit over using a DOCSIS 3.0 modem. All in all, a really good option if you’re a Spectrum user.
Pros
- Can connect to any WiFi router with no restriction on models
- DOCSIS 3.1 has a clear advantage over DOCSIS 3.0 modems
- Saves you $168 annually
- Does not heat up too much
Cons
- Only one ethernet port on the back
Ultimate Buying Guide to Choose the Right Sparklight Compatible Modems in 2023
Before buying a modem, it is necessary to look at certain factors such as maximum speed allowed, download and upload speed, number of channels, etc. There are modems available in the market with modem and WiFi router combo. These models are much efficient than basic modems. With many numbers of Ethernet ports, these routers will serve best for wireless internet connections. From smartphones to laptops, you can connect several devices to the ports and make the best use of it. The Sparklight approved modems mentioned in this article are of efficient features. Make sure the modem you buy qualifies the below factors.
1. Internet speed
Internet connectivity is the basic purpose of buying a modem. Your modem must be capable enough to provide high-speed internet connectivity. Some modems are capable of supporting internet speed up to 1000 Mb per second. Your modem must support your internet plans. If your internet plan is large and your modem is not supportive of it, it is a waste of cost to afford a higher internet plan. So, make sure your modem is capable to support your internet plan.
For uninterrupted movie streaming, hardcore gaming, or intensive file downloading, the internet with maximum speed is essential. You can choose the modem and its internet speed according to your needs or uses. The speed of the modem must also coordinate with your internet service provider. You cannot expect the modem of 1000 Mbps speed to run efficiently when your ISP is poor or mediocre. To provide high speed, many numbers of channels are necessary for a modem. You can also overview the upload and download speed along with the speed supported.
2. ISP compatibility
The modem you purchase must be compatible with your internet service provider. When you purchase a modem, you can review the list of ISPs the modem supports. Each modem has a list of ISPs it supports and ISPs it doesn’t. You can go through the list or contact your internet service provider to know if the modem is compatible or not. Without basic research on this arena, buying a modem can become useless if it is not compatible.
You can check the modem website or simply Google to know if they support your internet service provider. Contacting the ISP is the most preferred option when compared to online research, as these websites sometimes may not be up-to-date to lead you in the right direction. You should have to provide your modem’s MAC address to the ISP to get info about its compatibility. You can view the MAC address either on its bottom or after plugging it through Ethernet.
3. DOCSIS protocols
You might have come across this term ‘DOCSIS’ commonly in the modem features list. Wondering what does a DOCSIS protocol refer to in modems? Modems of the latest models generally use DOCSIS 3.0 or DOCSIS 3.1 protocols. This feature is very important to consider while you buy a modem. DOCSIS is nothing but Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification. This protocol will allow your Internet service provider to provide you internet through the modem’s coaxial cable.
DOCSIS protocol means your modem can provide a broadband internet connection. The difference between DOCSIS 2.0 / 3.0 / 3.1 is just that they are different versions, with 3.1 being the most recent version. These versions decide the modem speed and number of channels it provides. For a modem with higher internet speed capability, a 3.1 DOCSIS version would be the best choice. The commonly used DOCSIS version for modems is the 3.0 version. It supports great internet speed and channel numbers.
4. Security features
Do not think security as the least important factor. Modems have high chances to be security threatened and being served with malicious websites. It is very easy to hack a modem than a router. The modem has great possibilities to be hacked by alien websites. You can keep your modem secured by affording efficient anti-virus programs. Though this is not the complete solution, you can do it for basic security purposes to keep your modem away from dangerous sites. You can also contact your internet service provider to keep you updated about the modem’s security. Most of the internet service providers are too lazy or least responsive in this matter. But, you can nudge them to keep you updated often about the security of the modem.
5. Upload and download speed
After checking the basic modem speed that it supports, it is important to check the upload and download speed of the modem. The upload speed of the modem is usually lesser than its downloading speed. If a modem specification states that it is capable of speed up to 600 Mbps, it means that it can download files and stream at that speed level. It will not be able to upload on that speed level. So, you cannot brush off just by looking at the basic speed.
You need to specifically look at the upload and download speed to know about them. For people who require much of uploading activities, prefer to buy modems with higher uploading speed. You can see this specification on the modem website or info provided. The upload speed will be either half or worse 1/4th of the downloading speed. Your internet plan must be higher to support higher uploading speed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sparklight Compatible Modems in 2023
1. What is a DOCSIS protocol in modems? How does it influence modem performance?
DOCSIS is a Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification. DOCSIS protocol will let your Internet service provider provide you internet services through the modem’s coaxial cable. With this protocol, your modem can provide a broadband internet connection. There are different versions such as DOCSIS 2.0 / 3.0 / 3.1, with 3.1 being the most recent version and 3.0 is the most commonly used one.
2. How does Internet Service Provider ( ISP ) compatibility affect the modem function?
The modem you purchase must be compatible with your internet service provider. You can check the compatibility using 3 ways. You can either check it on the modem website or Google it or contact your internet provider to know about the compatibility. Contacting the ISP is the most trustworthy way of knowing about this.
3. What is the advantage of a modem + router combo?
The modem + WiFi router is very efficient compared to the basic modem. This is proven to be more advantageous as it will minimize the extra wires or cables needed for networking. This combo will also save space and is easy to set up. It will provide internet services to many devices at a time.
4. How to secure my modem from malicious websites?
You should keep your modem up-to-date with firmware updates. You should also change your login ID and password to be safe. You can disable the WPS option and avoid using unverified services. To secure your wireless devices connected to the modem/router, you can use WPA2. These steps will help to keep your modem away from malicious sites.
5. What are the additional features to look for when buying a modem?
Modems these days come with additional features such as parental control feature, which will be efficient for homes with children. You can take control over the modem and keep your children away from getting access to unwanted websites. There is also a separate guest networking feature in certain models to provide a separate network for your friends or guests to get access to the internet.
6. How to connect my modem to a router?
Connecting your modem to a router is simple. Once you’ve got everything on the modem front configured and your internet is up and running, you need to connect it to a router next. Use the cable that has come with your router and plug one end on the backside of the router, and the other end on the backside of the modem – both ethernet LAN ports. In a while, you will see the LAN light in your router flash – this means that your modem and router have connected. You would then need to set up the wireless internet, which you can set up by using the router’s app, or via accessing the admin panel from your web browser.
7. How to make sure my Sparklight modem does not heat up?
Heat is the biggest enemy of your modem – and most modems that tend to go bad before their expected lifespan go bad due to overheating. Modems tend to overheat because of multiple reasons, but dust is generally the biggest cause. Modems usually have heat vents that allow hot air to flow out naturally. However, when dust clogs these vents and openings, the heat cannot escape – and hence it causes the modem to heat up. Keeping it clean is one way to go about it. Another thing is to add a small battery-operated fan near the modem. And if even that does not help, turn the AC on – that is always a great option to cool things down.
8. Where to buy the best sparklight compatible modems?
Sparklight is an ISP which provides cable-based internet connections. Basically, any modem that works on a cable-based approach and features a coaxial cable port on the back is compliant to work with Sparkilght internet users. Hence, they are rather easy to find in any store that sells network equipment or computer peripherals. However, you might want to check out a web platform such as Amazon – as that gives you a wider number of product options. Amazon also tends to run promotions and discounts on these modems which makes it an even more lucrative prospect.
9. Can buying a more expensive modem increase my internet speed?
No, there is no connection between getting an expensive modem and getting faster internet speeds. Your internet speeds are driven mostly by your ISP and not by your modem. If you get an internet plan that provides you a speed of 1 Gbps but your modem supports only 343 Mbps – it is then that upgrading to a newer (and possibly more expensive) modem would help you increase your internet speed. However, if your existing modem and your new modem both provide speeds greater than what your ISP’s plan currently offers, then upgrading won’t really make too much of a difference in that case.
10. What is the sparklight modem rental fee?
When you rent a modem from Sparklight, you are charged $8 per month for it. This means you are essentially paying $96 per year in modem rentals. When you go out to buy a modem, an average sparklight compatible modem is priced somewhere between $120 to $150. This means that in about a year and a half, the modem pays for itself. If you use a Sparklight connection for 3 years, you are going to pay them about $288 in modem rental – twice the amount for which you can get a new modem! Hence, it is best recommended to buy a modem rather than to rent one from the ISP. This holds true for all ISPs and not just Sparklight, as there is always a rental fee involved.
With the internet being the most vital necessity of everyday life, choosing the right modem is the best thing you can do to enrich your browsing experience. Look for all the above factors in the buyer’s guide before you make your purchase. Opting for a modem and router combo will be a smart choice for your uninterrupted networking.
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