Now more than ever, people need a reliable internet connection throughout the day. If you want to make the most of your home or office internet connection, consider upgrading to a quality router from Linksys.
With an impressive unit like the Linksys CM3016SC-4T Docis 3.0 Cable Modem at your disposal, you can connect several different devices and engage in plenty of bandwidth-heavy activities.
What to know before you buy a Linksys modem
You still need to have a good internet connection
While upgrading your router could increase how fast your internet performs, your internet service provider (ISP) still needs to provide you with a good internet connection. Depending on your area and budget, you may have limitations on your service plan. It’s best to connect with your ISP to ensure you have the right connection for your needs.
Keep in mind that your ISP advertises internet speeds at their maximum capability. This may differ from what each individual customer receives at a given moment. In other words, you might pay for 100 megabytes per second (MBps), but you may only receive 72MBps. That said, you can always test your internet speed with any number of online internet speed tests for free. Even a reliable modem from a manufacturer like Linksys can’t fix connectivity issues, so be sure to talk with your ISP if you’re noticing consistent issues with uploading and downloading speeds.
Check your current modem for issues
As the saying goes, if it’s not broken, don’t fix it. This saying certainly rings true for something expensive like replacing your modem. Fortunately, checking your modem for issues is a relatively simple process, depending on your internet connection.
Your modem may be failing if your internet connection drops randomly or if you notice inconsistent internet speeds. You may also have modem issues if you frequently need to reset the modem to make sure it works properly. Other signs include dim or dark indicator lights or not being able to connect to the internet.
Check if your router is at fault
Your router may need some attention too. You can check this by using the modem directly instead of utilizing the router for your internet connection. If you have a separate modem and router, turn off the router and connect your PC or laptop directly to your modem. Then, perform diagnostic speed tests to see if there is a significant difference. If you have a combined router and modem unit, follow the instructions on your devices to activate “bridge mode.” This will temporarily suspend Wi-Fi connectivity. If you notice an improvement in internet speed when you are directly connected, chances are it’s time to replace your router and not your modem.
Linksys modem features
Internet speed boost
If you already have a high-speed internet connection, a Linksys modem can double or even triple your internet speed, which allows you to connect more devices than before. One highly recommended feature is the Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output, or MU MIMO. This feature allows anyone to perform bandwidth-heavy tasks as if they each had their own modem to work with.
In addition, Linksys modems have ethernet ports that enable faster connections and USB 3.0 ports to connect any additional devices.
It saves you time and money
There are plenty of costs associated with running a small business. Investing in a modem of your own can save you over a hundred dollars in rental fees every year. ISPs utilize the opportunity to charge you for using their modem, so consider cutting out this extra monthly cost.
Easy installation process
There are plenty of incredible frustrations that come with technology issues, especially when it comes to the installation process. Thankfully, Linksys prides itself on providing users with a hassle-free installation process to help you get your new modem up and running in no time.
Linksys modem cost
Depending on your desired features and if you can opt for a refurbished modem, a Linksys modem generally costs between $50-$100 and sometimes more.
Linksys modem FAQ
What does DOCSIS mean, and what does it do?
A. DOCSIS stands for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification. This determines how quickly your PC and ISP transfers data. The latest interaction is DOCSIS 3.0 and can handle up to 32 download channels, with each channel being capable of download speeds exceeding 1GB.
Do I really need to buy a modem?
A. It depends. If you would like to see better internet speed performance and don’t wish to pay your ISP a rental fee, it’s worth serious consideration. However, if your connection is already faulty, or if your ISP doesn’t work with newer modems, you may want to continue with what you already have and try working on improving your connection in other ways. You should always check with your ISP before purchasing a modem to avoid wasting time and money.
Which Linksys modem should I get?
Best of the best Linksys modem
Linksys CM3016SC-4T Docis 3.0 Cable Modem: available at Amazon
Our take: Enjoy the benefits of one of Linksys’ best modems at a significant discount.
What we like: The Intel Puma 6 chipset provides optimum performance for both uploads and downloads. It has a refurbished 90-day warranty and offers incredible individual bandwidth for online activities.
What we dislike: Due to the Puma chip architecture, this modem can be prone to occasional drops, which can severely impact network performance.
Best bang for your buck Linksys modem
Linksys Tri-Band WiFi Router for Home (Max-Stream AC2200 MU-MIMO Fast Wireless Router): available at Amazon
Our take: An affordable Linksys modem to replace the one provided by your ISP.
What we like: The MU MIMO configuration ensures every user can equally benefit from your high-speed internet.
What we dislike: Users reported the modem lacks parental control features, and it sometimes suffers from connection issues.
Honorable mention Linksys modem
Linksys High-Speed DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem, for Comcast/Xfinity, Time Warner, Cox & Charter: available at Amazon
Our take: An excellent router for a business or office.
What we like: Features a plug-and-play setup for user convenience and will boost your existing internet up to 300MBps.
What we dislike: Some users have to reboot the modem repeatedly to get it to work, and others noticed issues connecting with Spectrum internet services.
Daniel Martin is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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