When setting up your wireless home Internet network, you need a router. You also need a modem. A modem and router communicate with one another to transfer and translate data from your Internet service provider (ISP) to your devices. We have many resources covering what modems are and how they work on our Learn page. In this article, we are specifically looking at what it means to be an approved Xfinity router.
As we said, also need a modem, since this is the device that directly communicates with your ISP and translates the data into a “language” that your router will understand. That translated data is what turns into the Wi-Fi signal your devices receive. Together, they work well. You can get them separately or as a modem/router combo device. There are pros and cons to both depending on your preferences.
So, what is an Xfinity router then? An Xfinity router is a router that is compatible with Comcast Xfinity Internet services. However, most routers can work with Xfinity services. It’s always a good idea to check and research the device you have. The only time you need to question your router’s compatibility with Xfinity is if it is a router/modem combo since Xfinity-approved modems are more specific.
Depending on your ISP, you might be renting an Xfinity router already. But if you are looking to buy your own router, and you are interested in Xfinity, then you need to make sure it is an approved Xfinity router. Here are the things you need to look for:
Approved Xfinity Router Features
Chances are that if you buy an approved Xfinity router, you will be buying a modem/router combo device. The combo devices are the ones that you need to make sure are approved. A device like a cable modem router is beneficial for those looking for the convenience of a single device that:
- Takes up less room
- Only requires one power outlet
- Needs fewer wires and cables and
- Is easy to set up, especially if it comes from your ISP and they set it up for you.
Otherwise, a standalone router should do, but you will need an approved Xfinity modem device to go with it. This is very high-level. We cover the requirements for an approved Xfinity modem as well. But as a quick recap, the approved modem features are:
- Are all at least DOCSIS 3.0 modems, some are DOCSIS 3.1 modems
- Offer a range of download and upload channels (8×4, 16×4, 24×8, 32×8)
- Telephone capability (VoIP)
- Wi-Fi capability (requires a router)
If you want to buy a different router or modem/router and use Xfinity services with it, you have to make sure that the equipment is certified to work on the Xfinity network. So, if Xfinity is your ISP, you may be limited to a selection of approved Xfinity products. That’s the beauty of using cable modem like the ones that Hitron offers. Hitron has versatile solutions to meet your needs for various ISPs.
Have more questions? Check out our Learn page to see more topics that we cover.
