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AT&T provides free equipment and installation when you choose AT&T Internet plans. If, for some reason, you are planning to use your own equipment, and are wondering what kind of modem do I need for AT&T Internet, then this blog will highlight the potential options that you can choose.
But before that, let’s answer a simple question:
Do You Need to Buy Your Own Modem For AT&T Internet?
If you’re choosing AT&T fiber internet, then no, you don’t need to buy your own modem, as AT&T provides one. AT&T fiber internet modems come equipped with a technology called the ONT, or Optical Network Terminal.
This technology converts fiber’s light signals into copper and electric signals that are read by your LAN cable. AT&T provides ONT alongside its Wi-Fi gateways, which means you only need to assemble and install the equipment, and your connection is ready. In other words, you should not bypass AT&T modems because:
- These are preconfigured and work best with the provider.
- Finding the right ONT-integrated and compatible modem is a hassle.
- AT&T offers free equipment (why waste your money?)
What Modem Should You Use for AT&T Internet?
If in case you still want to buy your own modem, you need to ensure that it has the following qualities (based on the specifications of Wi-Fi gateways provided by AT&T):
- Modem-router combo with integrated ONT
- Dual-band or triband
- Wi-Fi 6 or above
- Can support up to 5 Gbps or more speeds
- Has multiple Ethernet ports (for connecting local devices)
- Has at least 1 SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) port
- Is VoIP compatible
- Is Wireless-Wi-Fi 802.11a compatible
What Equipment to Choose for AT&T Internet?
To start, consider renting Wi-Fi gateways from AT&T since the provider charges no equipment cost. These include:
- BGW320
- BGW210
- Pace 5268
- NVG599
- NVG589
However, you can proceed to add your Wi-Fi router by connecting it to the LAN port of the modem. Here are the options that you can consider:
DSL-AC88U Annex B – Best Modem Router Combo
The DSL-AC88U Annex B is an excellent choice for AT&T Fiber internet. It’s powered by NitroQAMTM (1024-QAM) technology, which, in simpler terms, boosts the overall speed through Wi-Fi on each band. In other words, you can expect to have higher-than-average Wi-Fi speed with this device.
The intriguing element about the AC88U is that it comes with flexible networking compatibility, allowing you to use it for DSL, cable, and fiber internet connections. In other words, you can even use it for other providers if not for AT&T.
Some of its notable features include:
- 3167 Mbps Wi-Fi speed with NitroQAM™ (combined)
- Ultra-low latency
- Up to 900 Mbps speed for DSL connections
- 3g/ 4G support
- 4T4R (4 Transmit, 4 Receive) antenna design for ample coverage
- AIRadar Beamforming for stronger signals
- USB 3.0 for faster data transfer speeds
Reasons to Buy
- ASUS AiProtection (vulnerability detection, parental controls, etc.).
- ASUSWRT User interface for advanced network control options.
- NitroQAM™ boosted speeds.
Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX6000 – Best Wi-Fi Router
The Rapture GT-AX6000 is an absolute beast of an internet router from Asus that has been ranked as the . It’s built to support gaming internet needs with its Triple-Level Game Acceleration. This feature allows the AX6000 to boost game traffic from server to receiver, ensuring minimal latency.
In addition, the Asus Router app allows you to enjoy minimal latency while gaming on your mobile with its Mobile Game Mode. The dual-band technology allows you to get up to 6 Gbps of relentless network speed, powering your online experience. It packs some additional features, including:
- Ultrafast Wi-Fi 6 dual-band technology
- 900+ Mbps at 50 ft. distance
- Latest WPA3 network security standard
- USB 3.2, USB 2.0, six gigabit Ethernet ports
- 2.0 GHz quad-core processor
- 256 MB flash, 1 GB RAM
- AiMesh Compatible
Reasons to Buy
- LAN/WAN Aggregation for unlocking fast speed throughput (increased bandwidth).
- 2.0 GHz quad-core 64-bit CPU for enhanced data transfer and network performance.
- ASUS AiMesh for whole home coverage, leaving no dead spots.
TP-Link Deco X55 Pro – Best Budget Wi-Fi
The Deco X55 Pro is the perfect choice for those looking to own their own router at an affordable price. However, don’t let its budget-friendliness fool you, as it offers performance better than devices at a higher tier.
This dual-band router outperforms many devices on the 5 GHz band, giving more than 2 Gbps speed. It’s one of the mesh WiFi systems (you can buy additional TP-Link devices to create a mesh network) that outperforms others in its niche with its features, including:
- 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports
- Basic parental controls
- Compatible mesh networking
- Easy to set up and use
- Voice assistant support
Reasons to Buy
- Affordably priced, good for 2-4 users/ small homes
- Reliable speeds at 5 GHz for seamless single-user activities (gaming, 4K streaming, etc.)
- Free basic parental controls
What We Recommend for AT&T Internet?
Considering the compatibility options, we recommend going for AT&T-provided modems. However, you can still go with any of the above options and connect them using a bridge.
FAQs
Does AT&T allow your own modem?
There’s no restriction on using your own modem for AT&T Internet. However, it’s recommended that you stick with the one provided by AT&T for smooth service.
Can I use Netgear with AT&T?
Yes, you can put the connection in the Bridge Mode or IP Passthrough and connect your Netgear router as required by your network.
Is ONT a modem?
No, an ONT is like a connector that connects fiber optics cable with a modem and helps convert light into electronic signals for effective communication with the provider.
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