Cox Compatible Modems

Modems work like intermediaries; receiving internet signals from the internet service provider (ISP), translating and transmitting them to the devices requesting web access. You cannot connect your laptop to a modem over the Wi-Fi, and need an Ethernet cable to establish a direct link between your laptop and the modem.

You can add the gateway to your plan during checkout or you can take advantage of the golden opportunity that Cox gives to all its customers, i.e. to bring their own modem. So, if you’re planning to go down the latter route and wondering what modems are compatible with Cox, then dive into this detailed guide, and learn all about the best Cox compatible modems for each plan.

Does Cox Provide Internet Equipment to its Customers?

Yes, Cox provides its signature internet hardware, consisting of a single device, to its new and regular customers. This device is known as the Panoramic Wifi gateway. Cox Panoramic Wifi gateway is an all-in-one modem and router combo.

This acts as a high-functioning hub and communicates with the ISP while dispersing wireless network speeds throughout the household simultaneously. Thus, by performing a dual job of a modem and a router, it eliminates clutter and saves up on-shelf space.

Why Should You Go For The Cox-Certified Panoramic Wi-Fi Gateway?

Five major benefits endorse this:

Provides wall-to-wall Wi-Fi coverage and extender pods for creating a mesh network
Includes Advanced Security for extra protection
Low ping for lag-free gaming
Supports a state-of-the-art Panoramic Wi-Fi app for remote management of the network
Runs automatic software updates and allows you to upgrade your gateway every three years without the added cost

It would cost you an extra $13 monthly on top of your plan. This might not seem much at first. But, when you take a bird’s eye view, you’ll see this small fee may accumulate to $156 per year, and de-stabilize your budget, especially if you are in a cash crunch.

If you still can’t decide on which modem to go with, you can get in touch with Cox Customer Service and they will help you figure out your router needs.

Learn the Difference Between ISP-Rented and Third-Party Modems

Can I Use My Own Modem with Cox?

Yes, you can use your own modem with Cox Internet plans. If you can’t afford the $13/month rental for the Panoramic Wifi gateway, you can bring your personal equipment into the equation, provided that it meets Cox’s requirements for third-party modems. Using your modem will help you avert the pesky rental costs and act as a one-time investment that is totally worth your while.

Here are some of Cox compatible modems that you can get to get the most out of your Cox internet:

ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12

Powered by Wi-Fi 6E, the Asus ZenWiFi Pro ET12 is an excellent choice for Cox internet users who want 2 Gbps internet speed. The Wi-Fi 6 technology enables low congestion connectivity, enabling you to enjoy seamless online performance.

With its tri-band network performance and added Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS), you can easily switch to a 6 GHz frequency band and avoid connection delays. It boasts a staggering 11 Gbps data rate with its 12 streaming channels without causing dead zones for busy networks.

Netgear Orbi RBKE963

Supporting up to 10.8 Gbps to all connected devices with its quad-band technology, the Netgear Orbi RBKE963 is an excellent device for all Cox internet users. It comes with a dedicated backhaul technology, which allows maximum speed for the devices connected to it.

In addition, the bands automatically adjust to the best frequency to minimize network congestion, delivering optimal speed. Moreover, it receives automatic firmware updates, including the Armor™ for real-time protection. You also get a 1-year built-in VPN subscription.

Arris TG2472

The Arris TG2472 is a DOCSIS 3.0 router that comes with 4 gigabit Ethernet ports. In addition, it’s a dual-band router that adjusts for the best frequency and delivers great performance without network congestion.

It also supports MoCA (multimedia over Coaxial Alliance) technology, which enables superb connectivity on cable connections. It also enables the router to act as a hub for the network, connecting devices seamlessly to their IP addresses.

It has a built-in battery backup, an internal power supply, dual-band 802.11ac radios, and a full capture bandwidth tuner to enhance network performance for cable internet such as Cox.

TP-LINK AXE300

The TP-LINK AXE300 brings a staggering 15.6 Gbps quad-band performance with its Wi-Fi6 and Wi-Fi 6e technology. It has a 2.0 GHz quad-core processor and 1 GB RAM, which enables seamless network processing for the connected devices.

In addition, you get OFDMA (orthogonal frequency-division multiple access) and MU-MIMO (multi-user, multiple input, multiple output) technologies, which optimize network performance and minimize transmission issues.

TP-Link also provides the TP-Link HomeShield for enhanced network protection against cyberattacks. Its fast performance allows you to make it a network hub that you can use to connect Wi-Fi extenders for extended coverage.

Learn How to Return Your Cox Equipment

What You Need to Know Before Buying the Best Modem for Cox

Cox Communications lays down a few disclaimers for its customers who choose to bring their own modem. These are:

Cox does not guarantee the exact modem speeds you’ve subscribed to in your plan. These may vary based on your home internet configuration, individual circumstances, modem capabilities, etc.
Cox does not certify the use of Internet and Telephone combination modems, received or purchased from third-party vendors.
Cox may not activate its internet service on a modem that is received in a used condition from a third-party retailer.
Cox Customer Support can only assist with modems or gateways purchased or rented directly from the provider. In the case of third-party equipment, tech support from Cox may not be included in your package. However, you can subscribe to the Cox Service Protection Plan to avail of this support for your non-Cox modem or gateway.
Cox does not endorse third-party manufacturers, modems, or gateway brands in any way. So, use your discretion when you decide while picking the best modem for Cox high-speed internet.

What are the DOCSIS Requirements for Cox-Approved Modems?

DOCSIS stands for “Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification.” Let us break it down for you.

DOCSIS Defined

DOCSIS is the technology, which defines how much bandwidth a modem can carry on how many channels and at what speed at a time. These channels are like different lanes on a highway that data packets travel on to reach their destination on the web. The more lanes there are, the greater the volume of data that can pass through the coaxial network in one instant.

What Are The Specifications Of Top-Tier Modems Today?

The best modems can give you 32 downstream channels bonded with 8 upstream channels, in addition to 2 x 2 OFDM channels, facilitating a gigabit-speed data transfer.

How Has The DOCSIS Standard Evolved To Accommodate Increasing Internet Speeds?

The latest DOCSIS standard is DOCSIS 4.0, which supports a maximum downstream capacity of 10 Gbps and an upstream capacity of 6 Gbps. Whereas, the oldest standard i.e. DOCSIS 1.0 could only transmit data at the rate of 40 Mbps downstream and up to 10 Mbps upstream.

What does Cox Recommend?

A cable modem running on DOCSIS 3.1 technology and preferably integrated with Wi-Fi 5 or 802.11ac standard at least that broadcasts on dual-band frequency.

What does Cox require?

A DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with 8 x 4 channels for its lowest speed internet package (Starter 25) and a DOCSIS 3.1 modem for its highest speed internet package (Gigablast).

Wrapping Up

Cox provides compatible modems when you opt for Cox Internet. But if you’re looking to use your own router, the aforementioned options are perfect in terms of compatibility with Cox’s services. You can reach out to Cox customer service for information regarding third-party router compatibility.