To save on installation costs, some customers are asking “Should I buy my own router for Spectrum?” The carrier is currently one of the most in-demand internet providers in the country with affordable plans and packages.
However, customers these days are looking into saving more money by using their equipment. So, should I buy my own modem and router for Spectrum?
You may buy your router if you want to use Spectrum internet. However, the router must be a model that’s supported by Spectrum. A complete list of the routers that they support is available on their website.
Can I Buy My Own Router for Spectrum?
You can use your router for Spectrum. You can even use old routers provided by Spectrum as long as it’s updated and included in their supported list.
Note: You may use non-Spectrum routers to get internet, but you can’t call a Spectrum technician for service or repair.
How To Use Your Own Router for Spectrum
Only authorized modems may connect to the network. Therefore, you need to find out if the router you wish to use will work with Spectrum.
Before using your modem, consider the following.
1. For Spectrum to provide the best service, subscribers are provided with a compliant modem for free.
2. This modem has passed Spectrum’s strict certification testing to give you the best performance.
Should Spectrum upgrade their speeds and your modem is unable to support the network speed, you will be notified if you need to upgrade your equipment.
Should I Buy My Own Router for Spectrum? – How To Use Your Own Router
If you’re up to using your router, here are the steps to do it.
Step #1. Find Out If Your Router Is Supported By Spectrum Internet
Go to Spectrum Modems Compliant Check Page to find out if your modem is part of their authorized modem list. Spectrum has specific models for the following speeds:
- Spectrum Internet up to 1G and DOCSIS 3.1
- Spectrum Internet up to 400Mbps
- Spectrum Internet up to 300Mbps
- Spectrum Internet up to 100Mbps
- Spectrum internet up to 60Mbps
- Modems that minimally qualify for Spectrum
Step #2. If Your Router Is Good, Contact Customer Service To Apply For Installation.
If you find your router on these lists and corresponds to the internet speed you want to use, you may now proceed with your installation.
Contact 855-246-8892 Spectrum customer service and speak to a live agent or you may use their online chat service from their official site.
The rep will help you select the plan that will work best for your modem speed and will give you additional instructions on how to proceed with self-installation.
You may also ask the agent to schedule a professional install for your modem.
There is a fee for professional installation.
Step #3. Connect Your Device To The Network
If you already have a service box or an internet outlet, you may now proceed with connecting your device to the network.
But if you still don’t have cable installed, a technician may need to come over for installation.
You may contact Spectrum to add additional internet outlets. Remember residential installation is different from commercial internet installation.
Step #4. Configure Your Network
Once installation is done, connect your devices to your new network by configuring it through the web portal.
Ask for the Spectrum default username and password. The web portal allows you to set your router and to allow people from connecting to your device.
Using An Old Spectrum Router
If you’re a previous Spectrum subscriber and you have an old router, start using it by following these steps:
Step #1. Verify How Old Your Router Is.
Old Spectrum routers will need updating. If your router is more than 6 years old, then it’s time to update this or replace it. You need to take your router back to Spectrum to replace or update it.
Some subscribers process an equipment swap which is done by sending the old unit to Spectrum.
Your new modem will arrive by mail including other pieces of equipment and an instruction manual.
Some subscribers are still using old Spectrum routers. These should be upgraded. New Spectrum routers can carry higher speeds.
Step #1. Contact Spectrum Customer Service for Installation.
Call Spectrum customer service at 855-246-8892 or use the chat service from their official site to start the installation.
An agent will discuss the different plans and packages and some pointers on how to install your internet using an old Spectrum modem.
Technician installation is no longer offered because of safety precautions. You can also order a self-installation kit for the internet.
Step #1. Install Your Router to The Network.
Install the router and connect your devices (PC, laptops, and other devices). If this is a reinstated account, your router password will be different from what it was before. Contact customer service to set up a new network.
Step #1. Configure Your Network
Your internet has been installed. Log in to the Spectrum web interface to set up your network. Just like non-Spectrum modems, you can set up your network, disallow people from accessing your network, and many more through the web portal.
Spectrum may ask you to update your modem once they updated their speeds in your area. You need this to continue receiving Spectrum internet service.
Facts About Using Your Own Router for Spectrum
Spectrum allows subscribers to use their own or preferred router however, the equipment must be supported by Spectrum.
For outdated models, bring these to the nearest Spectrum store for disposal. You may also swap your old Spectrum models with a new one by mail.
Spectrum recommends the use of self-install kits. Hence, using your router is one way to support this cause.
Read Next: How to Fix Spectrum WiFi Dropping Issue?
Conclusion
So, should I buy my own router for Spectrum? It is completely up to you. If you want to use an old router to save on installation costs, go for it. If you want to use a specific router then you may do so.
As long as the router you wish to use is supported by Spectrum, you can use it and customize it to your preferred network settings.
Finn Wheatley holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from UCL, London. He helped small data science consultancy firms, helping large corporations to grow their data capabilities, deploy advanced machine learning-based analytics and troubleshoot tech-related issues. Check out more about him here.