An outdated modem can affect your Internet speeds and performance. Having an updated modem is important not only for your Internet connection speeds, but for security protection of your device. If you rent from a Service Provider, you should be in the clear. However, if you bought your own modem, this is something you will want to keep on top of.
Technology changes quickly. It seems that in no time at all, technologies can become outdated, and when it comes to your modem, it’s no different.
Make sure your modem is keeping up with those changes, especially when it comes to feature enhancements, performance improvements and increased security. Your modem is the key piece of equipment that stands between your Internet connection and your ISP. If your modem is unable to handle the bandwidth demands that your household needs, then it’s time for you to take a closer look.
How do you know if your modem is outdated?
Here are a few things that will clue you in:
- You’ve had your modem for more than 5 years.
- You need to reset the modem regularly.
- Your Internet connection drops out.
- Your Internet speeds are either slow or inconsistent.
- Your modem makes a buzzing or humming noise often.
- The lights on the modem aren’t the expected color (ideally, you want to see green).
- The lights on the modem don’t light up.
Why you need to update your modem
Old modem technology – Technology evolves quickly, and having an older modem cannot support the advances in technology and increased Internet speeds offered by your ISP. A newer modem technology will offer you faster speeds and improved Internet performance.
Faster speeds and better security protection – When you have the latest in modem technology, your Internet connection will be able to handle any speed upgrades performed by your ISP and your modem will be more secure too.
Cable Internet technology – For cable Internet service subscribers, your cable modem technology greatly affects your Internet’s performance and speeds. Check out our article on that topic here.
The benefits of upgrading your modem
Here are some of the benefits of upgrading to a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem for cable Internet:
- Increased speeds:DOCSIS 3.1 is 10 times faster than DOCSIS 3.0 technology, so you’ll be able to achieve much faster Internet speeds offered by your ISP today and in the future.
- Faster performance:DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems offer better performance and stability than DOCSIS 3.0 modems, for a smoother, more reliable internet connection.
- Advanced security:DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems include security enhancements that protect your data and privacy better than an older DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem.
Things to look for in an updated modem
There are a few things that you can look for to know a modem is up-to-date and future-ready. Things like:
- The cable modem supports DOCSIS 3.1and/or DOCSIS 3.1 & WiFi 6
- The modem supports Gigabit speeds for faster connections and improved Internet performance.
- The modem is capable of achieving the speeds offered by your broadband service provider.
When you compare DOCSIS 3.0 vs DOCSIS 3.1 technology, your older DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem is only capable of delivering speeds from your ISP up to 1 Gbps, while a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem is capable of delivering speeds up to 10 Gbps!
Most modems last between 2-5 years, depending on Internet usage and needs. Ultimately, how long your modem lasts can depend on the quality of the modem you buy, changes in technology during that timeframe, and how well you take care of the device.
All electronics get outdated eventually. If you want to maximize the performance of your home Internet, consider buying the latest modem technology that’s built to last through your Internet needs. Hitron’s CODA DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is available on Amazon, The CODA features DOCSIS 3.1 technology to deliver the fastest Multi-Gigabit speeds to all of your connected devices now and in the future. Learn more about cable modems or cable modem routers by reading Hitron’s Learn Page.
