Did you know that using your own modem and router can improve internet speeds, offer far better performance, and save money? We show you how compatible modems and WiFi 7 routers will get the best out of your internet connection. Setup tips included!
IN THIS ARTICLE
Many people don’t realize they can use their own modem and router for their home WiFi setup. There are lots of benefits of using personal equipment instead of an internet service provider (ISP) setup. Many ISPs recycle older modems and dual-band WiFi 5 and WiFi 6 routers. These older models are fine for basic web browsing but fall well short of capacity in today’s smart homes where high-def streaming, gaming, and networking are in demand. That’s where WiFi 7 routers and advanced modems come into the picture.
A WiFi 7 NETGEAR upgrade is highly recommended. Then it’s simply a matter of choosing the perfect NETGEAR WiFi network configuration to take full advantage of your Router or Mesh System’s capabilities for your home internet plan.
Your ISPs equipment isn’t mandatory, although most ISPs today offer fast data plans for multi-channel broadband, fiber optic, and satellite internet services. Pair your new NETGEAR WiFi 7 router, compatible modem, or modem/router combo with a fast ISP plan for the best possible internet connection and download speeds. Choose your own equipment and a high-speed service from highly regarded companies such as Spectrum, Cox, Comcast Xfinity, AT&T, and Verizon. Check for compatibility with your ISP’s network.
There are several good reasons to use your own router and modem. Activation is fast, and the latest WiFi 7 systems open up whole new worlds of virtual reality, augmented reality, and AI.
Anybody can set up an internet connection wirelessly or with Ethernet cable using their modem and router setup guide, but most models hide lesser-known treasures in their setup menus. For example, you can bypass your slower ISP gateway with a WiFi 7 router and enjoy superfast WiFi signals instead. Explore the advanced options if you want to get the full value from your router investment and internet equipment.
There are many different configurations for setting up a Modem and WiFi. Below we’ve listed the most common options for Cable internet users.
Internet → Rented ISP Gateway
Who’s it For: This common setup uses a rental cable gateway with WiFi from your ISP. It’s easy to setup, but has the most limitations on home networking performance. It also incurs monthly fees in addition to your ISP plan costs.
Internet → Rented ISP Modem → Customer Owned WiFi Router or Mesh System
Who’s it For?: Consider this if have a low-cost rental modem and you have a slower ISP plan of less than 500mbs. Your rented cable modem can be easily connected to the latest WiFi Router and Mesh systems. (Note: Fiber & DSL customers might choose this option if they cannot easily find a replacement modem).
Internet → Customer Owned Cable Gateway (WiFi disabled) → Customer Owned Router or Mesh System
Who’s it For?: At some point you may have purchased a Cable Gateway, but now it’s integrated WiFi just isn’t cutting it. You can upgrade upgrade to the latest WiFi technology by connecting a new Router or Mesh system.
Internet → Customer Owned Cable Modem → Customer Owned WiFi Router or Mesh System
Who’s it For?: Consumers who want the fastest modem and latest WiFi Routers or Mesh system. Upgrade your modem or router independently as new technology is available. Also save money on ISP equipment fees.
There are many choices when it comes to modems, Routers and Mesh Systems we’ve included our top choices below. We have many articles and tools that will help you make the right choice.
Nighthawk Mid/High-Split Multi-Gig Cable Modem – Up to 19 Gbps! 2.5Gb Ethernet WAN port – For the ultimate in performance, link our WiFi 7 router or Orbi systems. Shop all modems.
Nighthawk RS700S WiFi 7 Router – 19Gbps. Includes 10Gb Ethernet WAN port (Works with 2.5Gb modems) 10Gb LAN ports, Up to 3,500 Sq. ft. of coverage and more. Shop all Routers.
Orbi 970 WiFi 7 Mesh System (3-Pack) – 27Gbps. Includes 10Gb Ethernet WAN port (Works with 2.5Gb modems) 10Gb LAN ports, Up to 10,000 Sq. ft. of coverage. 1 Router 2x Satellites. Shop all Mesh Systems.
You can use your own modem or router for your home WiFi setup. It’s as simple as pairing it with the existing equipment provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Replace the ISP modem and use a personal router for best results. To guarantee optimal speed tier performance, connect with a NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 Router or NETGEAR Orbi WiFi 7 Whole-Home Mesh. For a compatible modem, check out the Nighthawk CM3000. For superior speeds, reliability, and control over network performance, choose NETGEAR WiFi 7.
