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Nighthawk AC1900 Wifi Cable Modem Router
So I received an email from Comcast/Xfinity stating I need to update my modem. I just got this modem about 4-4 1/2 years ago when I bought my house and I use it for Streaming TV and working from home (its only myself and my 2 younger kids at home, so not a lot of traffic on it). I know this modem/router was released in 2013 and due to its age is no longer being sold, but still receives update. The specifics on this is Netgear Model #C7000 Nighthawk AC1900 Wifi Cable Modem Router with Built in DOCIS 3.0 Cable Modem, up to 960 Mbps and 23x8 channel bonding. I have recently noticed lagging (not a lot) when streaming and when working I've noticed there are times when Im working in Outlook (via my company worksite) that it freezes, but assumed it was something to do with my worksite (cuz it generally is). My Comcast internet info is Download speed up to 1000 Mbps, Upload speed is up to 20 Mbps. Do I need a new modem or do I need to update my Xfinity plan? I just did a "diagnoses check" on Xfinity and it said that everything is fine. I also have to say I did not install this, that the Xfinity guy set this up for me when I moved in 4-4 1/2 years ago, so I'm kind of clueless when it comes to this stuff. If I do need to replace my modem/router, what is recommended?
A couple of things.
1. most devices don't "need" gigabit speeds. Streaming 4k video only takes 25-40mbps. For this reason, most tv's didn't even come with gigabit ports, just 100mpbs ports. The extra expense (not much) wasn't worth it for a device that doesn't need it. So your device having 1gig versus 300mbps isn't going to impact it that much.
2. with most newer routers, the bottleneck isn't the router but the device you're using. Phones speeds drop off quickly with distance. So, while you might hit gigabit close to the router, you'll drop with distance/interference.
3. look for refurbished. For example, target has a refurbished cax80 for around $229 right now.
4. also, if you're on Xfinity, check the next-gen list. If you think you'll be getting the next-gen speeds any time soon (it shouldn't be too long; they've been rolling it out for a while), having one of those devices really improves upload. If you want a combo device, the Arris G36 is on there and comes to around $300. Its about the same wireless performance as the CAX30 but has the increased upload speeds.
5 Replies
Please post a copy and paste of the modems connection status and event log page.
https://kb.netgear.com/30007/How-do-I-obtain-the-cable-connection-information-from-a-NETGEAR-cable-modem-modem-router
https://kb.netgear.com/30008/How-do-I-view-or-clear-the-event-logs-on-my-NETGEAR-cable-modem-or-modem-routerYes may need to update the modem. It's up to ISPs to set policy on modem use on there networks. They also are responsible for modem updates and can choose not to update the FW on user owned gateways like the C series.
NG doesn't product any more C series modems. CAX series is the most current.
Xfinity loves to push people to new devices. While that modem won't hit the speeds you're paying for (they require docsis 3.1 for 1 gig plans), it'll still hit 800mbps without issues over wired. It won't hit this over a wireless connection (being an older/slower wireless device).
Are you wanting to hit the full speeds you pay for? Or did you get it on promotion and you're speeds are fine?
If you're upload is only approved for the 20mbps, you're not on the "next gen" area yet but that's probably coming.
You can see their approved devices for and tiers here:
Are you wanting to upgrade? Or what is your goal (not comcasts)?
My goal is not to purchase a comcast router and I would like to hit the wifi speeds that I pay for. I dont want to do wired if I can help it. So by what you are saying I should probably upgrade. I researched and the updated replacement for my current modem/router I have is the CAX80. I just hate to spend that kind of money as Ive priced it and its like almost $400 and thats buying at Walmart. Amazon and other places (even Netgears site) is more expensive. Ugh!!!!
Something else to consider as well, get a separate cable modem and external wifi router system.
ISP update modems only and users can not so this avoids issues seen with some gateways that are combo units with some ISPs. Let the ISP handle the modem and then you can manage that external wifi router system yourself.
Can be a bit cheaper this way as well. If you don't mind used systems, places like amazon, or shopgoodwill have good used router systems that you can get for cheap. Just gotta look. Maybe a good used modem as well. I found used stuff at these two places for good prices.
