The information available online about DOCSIS 3.0 cable modems is quite confusing. We are going to help you understand some of the myths stated by others and reveal the truth behind DOCSIS 3.0 cable modems.
Although DOCSIS 3.0 cable modems seem to be quite popular when searching online for a cable modem, we are going to break down some very common myths about them that you may have held as a truth when it comes to modem security, Internet speeds and Internet performance.
When researching DOCSIS cable modems before you buy your own modem, there are some key things to know about DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1. Here are 5 myths you might stumble upon and the truth behind the statements:
Myth #1: DOCSIS 3.0 is as good as DOCSIS 3.1
Truth: This is false. DOCSIS 3.0 is a 15-year-old technology, released in 2006. DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest DOCSIS technology available today. Technology changes quickly, and it’s important to have the most up to date version of technology working for you. Because DOCSIS 3.0 is much older, it does not have the advanced features or improved performance that a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem has. DOCSIS 3.0 also has outdated security protection, which DOCSIS 3.1 replaces as more robust and more advanced to protect all of your connected devices.
Myth #2: DOCSIS 3.0 can handle Gigabit speeds
Truth: Theoretically, DOCSIS 3.0 has the potential to reach 1 Gbps speeds. However, you are unlikely to every really achieve that speed with a DOCSIS 3.0 modem. To ensure you are achieving Gigabit speeds and future-proofing your Internet connection for future speed plan upgrades, you want a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem. If you want superfast Internet that will last you well into the future, DOCSIS 3.1 is capable of delivering Internet speeds up to 10 Gbps.
Myth #3: DOCSIS 3.0 won’t affect your Internet speeds
Truth: Your cable modem really does matter to your Internet connection. DOCSIS 3.0 can theoretically provide speeds up to 1 Gbps, however you may never achieve that top speed. So, in addition to DOCSIS 3.0 technology being outdated, your Internet connection will be slower or experience lag much higher than with DOCSIS 3.1. Your Internet speeds depend on two things: 1) the speed capability of your cable modem and 2) the version of DOCSIS technology that your Internet Service Providers (ISP) supports within its network. Most ISPs today support DOCSIS 3.1 technology in their networks which can provide up to 10 Gbps speed plans. If you have an older DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem and you want to subscribe to a 1 or 2 Gbps service plan, you will never achieve those speeds. It’s important to note here, that the Ethernet port on your cable modem also influences the speeds delivered out to your connected router, so look for an Ethernet port that supports 1 Gbps and above for the fastest speeds within your home network.
Myth #4: DOCSIS 3.0 is not obsolete
Truth: DOCSIS 3.0 is on its way out. Yes, you can still buy a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem now but it is end-of-life, meaning, your ISP won’t support having them added to their networks. Most ISPs are encouraging their customers to purchase a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem because they can handle faster speed plans and have stronger modem security. The better move is to buy a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem.
Myth #5: DOCSIS 3.0 is just as good as DOCSIS 3.1
Truth: DOCSIS 3.1 is better. There are a handful of reasons why you should replace your DOCSIS 3.0 modem and buy a DOCSIS 3.1 instead:
DOCSIS 3.0…
- is outdated technology.
- lacks up-to-date modem security.
- speeds are slower and have higher latency/lag.
- supports less data traffic and devices at once.
- doesn’t support high-definition video streaming.
- isn’t futureproof (you will need to replace your DOCSIS 3.0 modem very soon).
If you’re looking for a cable modem that can keep up with your increasing demand for faster internet speeds, now and into the future, the Hitron CODA DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem is the perfect choice for any cable Internet user looking for faster Gigabit speeds, greater reliability and increased Internet performance that reduces lag and latency.
If you want to learn more about Cable Modems or Cable Modem Routers, check out more articles we have written under our Learn section of this website, as well, check out our Blog articles.
