The Best Motorola Modems & Routers

Buying Guide

When you sign up for a cable internet service, the company will automatically provide you with a modem/router device. What they don’t tell you, however, is that they are charging you a monthly fee to use that equipment. Instead, consider purchasing a Motorola modem and router yourself, as this can save you as much as $156 per year.

Look for a modem that is easy to set up. Some options come with a quick-start guide and simply require consumers to attach three connectors: the power, coaxial and ethernet cables.

Consider the size of the modem next. If you have limited space on your desk, you’ll want to go with an option that has a slim design. One that is also vertical is ideal, as you could easily fit the unit in between a monitor and a hard drive.

Check the modem’s speed to ensure it meets your needs. If you only use your internet for leisure here and there, you’ll find a Motorola modem and router with speeds of 686 megabits per second is all you need. Individuals who work from home or do a lot of gaming would do better with a modem that offer speeds of up to 6,000 megabits per second.

Determine whether you’d like to have a separate modem and router, or a combined unit. Combined units reduce the amount of wires you have to deal with, as well as the amount of equipment you have to set up. Of course, if you go with a separate modem and router, you’ll be able to upgrade one without having to replace the other.

• Always check that the Motorola modem and router you’re interested in is compatible with your internet service provider before you make a purchase.
• Not all of the modems double as Wi-Fi routers. You may need to purchase a compatible wireless router separately to work in conjunction with your Motorola modem. You’ll also want to check whether the modem includes a telephone jack if you plan on having a home telephone.
• Schedule a monthly reboot for your computer, modem and router. This simple task often improves slow-moving connections and stops the occasional signal drop.
• When setting up your router, you’ll need to create a Wi-Fi password that is hard for anyone to guess. For added safety, it is also important that you go into your settings, click on LAN settings and change the router’s IP address. Then head to Tools or Administration and change the router’s login password. You want to select a different password than you used previously for the Wi-Fi.
• Take the time to dust off your Motorola modem and router at least once per week. No other cleaning is needed unless you spill a drink while sitting at your computer.
• When upgrading your router, consider recycling the old model. You can use it as a Wi-Fi extender or a guest connection.
• The cost for a Motorola modem and router is dependent upon the model’s speed capabilities, number of ethernet ports and whether or not it has a built-in router.