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aanders50's avatar
aanders50
Guide
Apr 04, 2019

Gigabit modem with multiple ports versus gigabit modem with 1 switch and a gigabit switch

Hello! I am looking at moving to gigabit internet, and thus need a compatible modem. I was looking at the CM1000 and noticed that it only has 1 port on the back, I believe another variant has 2 ports. Either way, that is not many (I run 4 cables currently to various areas of the house, 1 for PC, 1 for entertainment area, 1 for basic wall ports in house, and 1 dedicated for smarthome items) and I am wondering if there is a massive issue with getting the 1 port model but then running that to a netgear gigabit ethernet switch to have more ports.

Is there a massive issue with that? My biggest reason in upgrading my internet is that Xfinity only offers about ~5mbs up with any tier internet package unless I move to gigabit speed, this is primarily needed by just my PC.

 

Thank you!

 

Looking at modem: https://www.netgear.com/support/product/CM1000.aspx
Looking at Switch: https://www.netgear.com/support/product/GS208.aspx

13 Replies

  • plemans's avatar
    plemans
    Guru - Experienced User
    Apr 04, 2019

    If you're buying just a modem, you need a router as well. Unless you get a combo device (I don't recommend but some people prefer them).

    You would need to go:  Modem-->router-->switch.

    What are you currently using for your setup? 

    • aanders50's avatar
      aanders50
      Guide
      Apr 04, 2019

      Ahh good catch, my current one is in fact a modem/router combo, does netgear offer that same option?

      I currently have this I think: https://www.netgear.com/home/products/networking/cable-modems-routers/C6300.aspx but was purchased almost 3 years ago (5/2016) so it may be an older variant, it is a C6300 though, all I know is that Xfinity's compatibile viewer said it would not work with gigabit as its capped at like 369 mbs I think they said.

      All 4 of my ethernet lines currently run right from this C6300.

      Thanks!

      • plemans's avatar
        plemans
        Guru - Experienced User
        Apr 04, 2019

        The netgear C7800 is compatible with gigabit. I've used it and it works great. I'm still not a fan of combo devices because if the modem or router part fail, the whole thing fails. Plus you're locked into trusting ISP's for updates. Which doesn't happen. But they are nice for easy of use and simplicity. 

        https://www.netgear.com/home/products/networking/cable-modems-routers/C7800.aspx

         

        the other one I i know of is a Arris SBG8300 but it hasn't been released yet. 

        You can always go with a modem (cm1000 or cm1100 support gigabit) and add a decent router. Plus you have the option to upgrade routers as features get added without having to replace modems as well.