If you are looking to buy a cable modem you’ll want to first consider renting the cable modem. You can generally rent a cable modem from your cable internet provider for just a few dollars a month.
Renting allows you to access your cable internet with the cable company’s equipment. If anything goes wrong with the modem, they simply replace it with another rental modem.
But if you need to purchase your cable modem, there are a few things that you’ll want to consider before purchasing one.
Compatibility:
You want to ensure that the cable modem you purchase is compatible with your cable internet provider as well as your computer. Most modem packages will indicate what operating systems and computers they are compatible with. You can also call and ask your internet provider which modem they sell to customers.
You can buy from the cable company in some cases but you may pay more then if you were to purchase the cable modem yourself. But you can still ask them which modems they offer, then use that information to go out and purchase a cable modem with the same specifications.
Reliability:
Cable modems, like many electronics, have a relatively short life span. Buying a cheaply made modem is a waste of money so you want to buy a trusted and reliable brand. Look for the same brands that the cable companies rent or sell to customers. Go to an electronics store and ask questions about the best cable modem brands. You’ll end up with a decent cable modem that won’t die out right away.
Don’t buy extended warranties or store warranties for your cable modem, they just aren’t worth it. Instead look at the warranty offered by the manufacture of the modem, many companies offer at least a 30 day return or replacement policy for defective equipment. Many offer warranties that range from 90 days to 1 year and at no additional cost to you.
Wireless vs. Wired:
Some cable modems come with wireless capabilities built in. This allows you to connect to your cable internet with any desktop or laptop that has a wireless card in it. If you don’t have a laptop or if your computer doesn’t have a wireless card, go with the standard wired version of the modem.
Wireless modems often cost more. You can always purchase an inexpensive wireless router later down the line to connect to your cable modem to allow wireless access to the internet in your home or office.
Ease of Use:
You want a cable modem that stays connected to your internet connection consistently. You also want one that has easy to understand status lights. Your cable modem should have status lights for connection, pc activity, network port activity (one for each wired network connection), wireless connection (if a wireless modem), power, and back up power (if applicable).
These status lights show you if your connection is functioning properly or not and can save time and hassle when needing to reset or troubleshoot your internet connection.
It should also be easy to set up with plug and play style connections. A good cable modem should be able to be plugged into a power supply, cable connection, and computer within minutes with little to no troubleshooting.
Plus an easy to set up modem means you don’t have to pay for the cable company to set it up (which is really a waste of money) and you don’t have to call a support line.
Size:
Your cable modem should fit your space needs as well. Some modems may be large and heavy, but more models are smaller then ever before. If space is an issue choose a small modem that is still has easy to read status lights. Smaller cable modems are also good if you plan on moving a lot or need to take your cable modem on travel.
Consider all of these things when deciding which cable modem to purchase. Some companies that make cable modems include Motorola and D-Link. Also keep in mind the idea of renting a cable modem from your cable company as it can save you money if your modem malfunctions or dies.�
