What’s required to be an approved Xfinity modem router?

Learn > Cable Modem & Routers > What’s required to be an approved Xfinity modem router?

When setting up your wireless home Internet network, you need a router. You also need a modem. A modem and router communicate with one another to transfer and translate data from your Internet service provider (ISP) to your devices. We have many resources covering what modems are and how they work on our Learn page. In this article, we are specifically looking at what it means to be an approved Xfinity router. 

As we said, also need a modem, since this is the device that directly communicates with your ISP and translates the data into a “language” that your router will understand. That translated data is what turns into the Wi-Fi signal your devices receive. Together, they work well. You can get them separately or as a modem/router combo device. There are pros and cons to both depending on your preferences. 

So, what is an Xfinity router then?  An Xfinity router is a router that is compatible with Comcast Xfinity Internet services. However, most routers can work with Xfinity services. It’s always a good idea to check and research the device you have. The only time you need to question your router’s compatibility with Xfinity is if it is a router/modem combo since Xfinity-approved modems are more specific. 

Depending on your ISP, you might be renting an Xfinity router already. But if you are looking to buy your own router, and you are interested in Xfinity, then you need to make sure it is an approved Xfinity router. Here are the things you need to look for:

 

Approved Xfinity Router Features

Chances are that if you buy an approved Xfinity router, you will be buying a modem/router combo device. The combo devices are the ones that you need to make sure are approved. A device like a cable modem router is beneficial for those looking for the convenience of a single device that:

  • Takes up less room
  • Only requires one power outlet
  • Needs fewer wires and cables and
  • Is easy to set up, especially if it comes from your ISP and they set it up for you.

Otherwise, a standalone router should do, but you will need an approved Xfinity modem device to go with it. This is very high-level. We cover the requirements for an approved Xfinity modem as well. But as a quick recap, the approved modem features are:

  • Are all at least DOCSIS 3.0 modems, some are DOCSIS 3.1 modems
  • Offer a range of download and upload channels (8×4, 16×4, 24×8, 32×8)
  • Telephone capability (VoIP) 
  • Wi-Fi capability (requires a router)

If you want to buy a different router or modem/router and use Xfinity services with it, you have to make sure that the equipment is certified to work on the Xfinity network. So, if Xfinity is your ISP, you may be limited to a selection of approved Xfinity products. That’s the beauty of using cable modem like the ones that Hitron offers. Hitron has versatile solutions to meet your needs for various ISPs. 

Have more questions? Check out our Learn page to see more topics that we cover.

NEW! Now Available at Retail!

CODA DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem

Related Articles

What is WPS on my Router?

If you’ve looked closely at your WiFi router, you might have noticed a button marked “WPS” somewhere on it. What is this button? Why is it there and should you press it? Great questions. WPS stands for WiFi Protected Setup.  A router with a WPS button can allow any...

When Should I Reset vs Restart my Cable Modem?

When you should do a cable modem restart or reset depends on the situation. It’s extremely important to understand these terms as the function of these terms have different meanings. In simple terms, to restart or reboot your modem means to turn off your modem and...

What is WiFi 6 and Is WiFi 6 Really Better?

WiFi 6 (also known as 802.11ax) is the most recent version of WiFi. It’s the best version of WiFi to date, with more support, faster speeds, less network congestion, better security, improved battery life for devices, and more. If you are looking for the latest and...

How do I set up my cable modem?

There are differences in setting up your cable modem whether you purchased or rented the device. If you bought your own cable modem, you should check the user manual or manufacturers' support website for specific details. For example, Xfinity (Comcast) and other Cable...

Can I use any cable modem for Cable Internet?

The right cable modem or cable modem router combo to use to get cable Internet in your home depends on a few things: Whether you are renting vs buying Certification and compatibility with your Service Provider Must-have features to consider For example, if your...

These Hitron products are now available on Amazon!

You can own high-quality, Carrier-grade products!

Coax Cable Tester

DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem

MoCA 2.5 Coax to Ethernet Adapter

Featured Articles

3

Buying vs Renting a Router

Should you invest in your own Internet equipment and buy a router instead of renting one from your Internet service provider (ISP)? It depends on the cost and your preferences. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide.

What is a Router?

A router is a small box that translates data from your modem to communicate a Wi-Fi signal to the devices on your local network. Learn more.

Why Buy a Gateway Instead of a Modem?

Should you invest in your own Internet equipment and buy a gateway or cable modem router instead of a modem? Or, should you rent it from your Internet service provider (ISP)? It depends on cost and your preferences. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide.

Let me know when the OS2210 is available?