Planning on switching to Comcast (I know, but they're half my current UVerse price.) Looking to buy just a used cheapie modem so I don't half to rent one from them. Any minimum criterion I need to be aware of? Thanks!
No they aren't all the same. Like said above, get a docsis 3.0 model. Also, go on their site and make sure you get a compatible model first (one they support). Can't go wrong with a Motorola
Do not go for a modem/router combo. Buy a separate router and a separate modem. You will save yourself many headaches.
I have the SB6141 but I don't think Comcast will be officially supporting that much longer. I'm just waiting for a sale on refurbished 6190s.
You need a modem to interpret the Internet signal from the cable. It usually only has one Internet Out port. You need a router to connect more than one device. It spreads your Internet signal so multiple devices can connect wireless or wired, depending on your router.
Perfect. So if I'm only connecting one device and the rest run off of wifi, I don't need the modem, correct?
Yes, you still need a router if you get a modem only configuration. A modem only configuration will not have wifi. Modem/Router configurations usually have terrible wifi, thus why people recommend get separate ones.
I've also been thinking of doing this but UVerse has been so dependable for me. I cannot remember the last time my internet was down for more than a couple minutes. Can anyone chime in on the uptime of Comcast vs Uverse?
My Comcast hasn't been "down" in years. Worst I've had to do is occasionally reset the whole thing due to a weak wifi signal. At certain times it will slow so that at my weaker wifi spots the signal isn't strong enough for online gaming or 1080p streaming unless I reset it.
Of course some providers tend to do better than others overall, but often its relative. If your current provider is acceptable, there is no point in switching over. Often problems can be local and not be a problem for someone on the other side of the neighborhood. This can be old/outdated hardware (modem), bad wiring in the house or out to the curb, or a poorly managed POP. Now if you have UVerse cable TV, their picture quality is rated very low across the board.
