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So, your actual offer terms from an advertiser may be different than the offer terms on this site. We strive to keep our information accurate and up-to-date, but some information may not be current. Many, but not all, of the offers and clickable hyperlinks (such as a “Next” button) that appear on this site are from companies that compensate us. To help you find the best modem and router for Xfinity, we’ve compiled this guide to provide you several options to consider. You can buy your own compatible equipment to use with Xfinity and save yourself hundreds of dollars in rental fees over the next few years. While you might take comfort knowing that the Xfinity-provided device is compatible, it’s important to note that the rental will end up costing you more in the long run. If you’re signing up for Xfinity service, you have two options: rent a modem and router, or purchase your own. Modems and routers can be purchased separately, or you can use a device that combines the two. A router connects to the modem in order to create a Wi-Fi network in your home that your computers and connected devices can use to access the internet.
Simply put, a modem is a device that connects your household to your service provider, in this case, Xfinity. You might think a modem and a router are the same device, but they’re not. The Nighthawk is at the higher end of the budget scale but remains permanently yours with no rental fees.To use Xfinity internet, you’ll need a compatible modem and router. If you want the latest technology for your ultra-fast internet, the Nighthawk CAX80 from Netgear has the latest DOCSIS 3.1 modem standard with super-fast Wi-Fi 6 and plenty of connection options for wired devices. Better to spring for our best overall choice in the Motorola MG7550 at a similar spending price. With a minimum contract, renting the xFi Gateway router can cost you upwards of $140.
Only some of the best Wi-Fi routers comply with the technology required by Xfinity broadband, such as combining a modem with the minimum standard of DOCSIS 3.0. Its dual-band Wi-Fi 6 wireless tech pairs with four Gigabit LAN ports for super-fast data transfer. The Nighthawk CAX80 includes the DOCSIS 3.1 modem standard for Gigabit packages offered by Xfinity. If you want the fastest speeds, you'll need hardware supporting the required tech.