WOW! offers both cable and fiber internet plans that deliver speeds of up to 2 Gbps and 5 Gbps, respectively. Both services include a WiFi modem at a lease with the internet plan. However, if you wish to use your own router or modem, you should have a DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1 compliant one as per the provider’s policy.

This blog explores the best modems and routers that are compatible with WOW! Internet plans and what you need to do if you choose to use your own modem instead of the one provided by WOW! So read on!

How to Use Your Own Modem/Router with WOW! Internet?

If you want to use your own modem with a WOW! Internet plan, you will have to communicate that while placing your order or by contacting customer support. When you request to use a WOW! Internet compatible modem, the customer service representative will ask you to share your MAC address to activate it on their network. Once your MAC address has been enlisted on the provider end, you will be able to access the internet through a compatible modem at home. By opting to use your own modem, you can save on your monthly bill by avoiding the modem lease for using a WOW! provided device.

The Best Modems for WOW! Cable Internet

A modem that would work best for your home depends on the connection type (cable or fiber) and the speed tier you choose. While all WOW! provided modems are the ideal choice for best performance, you can still use your own modem. However, keep in mind that WOW! customer support will only help troubleshoot WOW! provided equipment. So, if you choose your own device, you will have to take responsibility for maintenance yourself.

Here are our recommendations based on general WOW! speed tiers:

Best Modem for Multi-Gig Internet

Arris Surfboard S33
The Arris Surfboard S33 has a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem that supports speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps. With multi-port support, you can get more flexibility to choose which speed tier you want to use it for. However, this modem does not have built-in WiFi, so you will need a router to get internet coverage around your home.

Also Learn: Modem Router Combo vs. Separate: Which One to Choose

Best Modem + Router for Multi-Gig Internet

ARRIS Surfboard G54 (Wi-Fi 7)
The ARRIS Surfboard G54 is a modem and router combo that uses a high-performing DOCSIS 3.1 modem and WiFi 7-powered router, which supports speeds of up to 10 Gbps. The WiFi 7 router comes with a quad-band technology that supports 2.4GHz, two 5GHz bands, and 6GHz and delivers greater bandwidth, wider coverage of up to 5000 square feet, and faster speeds, ideal for heavy internet usage, multiple users, and smart home systems.

Also Learn: Best Places to Put Your WiFi Router for Optimized Speeds and Wider Coverage!

Best Modem for Basic Speed Tiers

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200

The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is also powered by a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem, a basic necessity for WOW! Internet - designed for speed plans up to 1 Gbps. It supports both 32x8 DOCSIS 3.0 or 2x2 DOCSIS 3.1 channels, delivering a smooth and fast low-latency internet. With WOW! Internet plans like Internet 600 and Internet 1 Gig, this router would work best, and it’s quite budget-friendly. However, you will need a WiFi router to pair with this modem for in-home connectivity.

Best Modem Router Combo for Basic Speed Tiers

Arris SURFboard G34
The Arris SURFboard G34 fulfills WOW!’s requirement of a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem technology, and is powered by a WiFi 6 router. With 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and a 2.4/5 GHz dual-band, it delivers consistent high-performing connectivity around your home on multiple devices. This modem router combo is ideal for gig speeds, has an easy setup process, and is also a comparatively affordable option to buy.

Ready to Set Up Your Home WiFi?

WOW! is among the most reliable cable and fiber providers in the country, although availability may be limited. However, you can enter your zip code in our availability tool to check which WOW! internet plans are available at your exact address.

Ready to get started with WOW! Internet? Give us a call

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my internet speed slower than usual?

Your internet speed may be slower if your connection hasn’t been refreshed in a long time. One of the quickest fixes includes rebooting your router, which helps clear cache, free up space, and create a fresh connection between the modem and router.

Why is my WOW! internet not working properly?

An internet issue can either be from the provider’s end or in your router/modem. You can try some basic WOW! Internet troubleshooting tips to check and possibly fix the issue.

Is Mesh WiFi better than traditional WiFi?

A mesh WiFi is better if you have a large house, with multiple floors and users scattered around the space, as it delivers wider coverage that is consistently spread across your entire home. You can learn more about mesh WiFi by reading our comparison of mesh WiFi vs. traditional WiFi.