Typically, anyone would get a technician to help them set up the Xfinity router and that comes with its own installation charges. If you prefer going the old-fashioned way, you can set it up yourself too. Setting up the router yourself is inexpensive as well.
Comcast’s Xfinity internet services are provided at very affordable rates at average speed, yet still, have a reliable performance like no other. There is a reason why it is the most widely used internet service in the United States. If you have signed up for Xfinity Internet, you will receive xFi Gateway, which is a modem and router built into one device. Or if you are buying your own router, you must have the one that is compatible with Xfinity internet connection. Nevertheless, this guide will explain how to set up an Xfinity Wi-Fi router.
Getting Started
If you are renting xFi Gateway from Xfinity, and choose to go with self-installation, you will receive an Xfinity Getting Started Kit from support. The Getting Started kit will include the following items;
- A Getting Started guidebook
- xFi Wireless Gateway
- A coax cable
- An Ethernet cable
- A power cord
If you are choosing to buy your own modem and router, you will need to buy the ones that are compatible with Xfinity internet connection. You will also buy your own cables and other accessories that are needed.
Setting up a Wi-Fi router
All your devices need a router to be connected to the internet. Without a router, there will be no internet access for your devices. Also without the router, you cannot access the Xfinity smart home services, since it is managed through the wireless service.
Find a location:
Where you place the router in your home matters. Because Wi-Fi signals are sensitive and vulnerable to other obstacles that might interfere with the network connection. It can result in getting weak signals and slow data transmission. All your home appliances emit radio wave signals which can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal, so make sure the router is nowhere near that. Place the router at a slightly elevated position for efficiency. And also place it in the center of your home for coverage of the whole area.
Cables and cords:
If you have a separate modem and router, you will need to connect the router to the modem with an Ethernet cable. If you have xFi Gateway, then there is no need for that since the router and modem are already built-in. Then connect the coaxial cable from the wall plug to the router; make sure it is plugged into the port that says Cable In. Router and modem or xFi Gateway will be then connected to power plugs on their ends and can be powered on with the power button.
Wait for Gateway to be ready:
It might take a few minutes for the router to be ready. xFi Gateway will take around 10 minutes to be ready. If your Xfinity Gateway has two more lights, the power, US/DS, and online lights will stay on for a minute and the 2.4GHz and 5GHz lights will start blinking after a while. If your Xfinity Gateway has only light on the front, it will stay on for a minute. However, your own router/modem will have its own instructions in the guidebook.
Temporary internet connection:
Using wireless connectivity, you will establish an internet connection.
- Find the network name (SSID) and password written on the Gateway or router device.
- Go to Wi-Fi settings in your device, locate the network connection, and enter the username and password there.
Plugging one end of the Ethernet cable to Gateway or router and the other end to the computer port will enable the internet connection for your computer.
Activation:
When you connect your device to the Wi-Fi by entering username and password and it doesn’t immediately show the welcome message to begin setup, you can go to the website xfinity.com/activate to complete the activation process with your Xfinity username and password.
Now your Xfinity Wi-Fi connection is working and all your devices can connect to the router wirelessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I get in the Xfinity installation kit?
Your Xfinity installation kit will include a Getting Started guidebook, xFi Wireless Gateway, a coax cable, an Ethernet cable, and a power cord.
Can I set up my own router, if it is not provided by Xfinity?
Yes, you can set up your own third-party router, but make sure it is compatible with the Xfinity internet connection.
What are cables and cords for?
An Ethernet cable will be used to connect xFi Gateway to your computer. Cords will be used to connect the xFi Gateway to the power outlet. And coaxial cable will be used to connect the xFi Gateway to the cable outlet.
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