Luna Harper
Atlantic Broadband customers have the option to rent a modem from the company or buy their own. Renting a modem and gateway from Atlantic Broadband costs $14.99 per month, which includes two SuperPods that use cloud-based AI technology to extend your Wi-Fi coverage. However, in the long run, it may be more cost-effective to buy your own modem, as the rental fees can accumulate to hundreds of dollars over a few years. Additionally, buying your own modem can offer performance improvements, especially if you have a higher-tier internet plan. Atlantic Broadband provides a list of approved modems that are compatible with their service, and it is recommended to purchase a DOCSIS 3.1 device to maximize its years of use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Whether you have to rent a modem from Atlantic Broadband | No, you can buy your own modem and don't have to rent one from Atlantic Broadband |
| Cost of renting a modem from Atlantic Broadband | $11 per month or $14.99 per month |
| Cost of buying your own modem | $100-$150 for a DOCSIS 3.0 modem or $300 or less for a DOCSIS 3.0 modem and a WiFi5 router |
| Pros of renting a modem from Atlantic Broadband | You get a modem and a mesh network, which is better than what many other ISPs offer |
| Cons of renting a modem from Atlantic Broadband | It costs more in the long run, and you will have to return the modem if you cancel your plan |
| Pros of buying your own modem | You save money in the long run, and you may get better performance |
| Cons of buying your own modem | The modem may not work with your future ISP if you switch |
| Recommended modem | Motorola MB8600 |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Renting vs. buying a modem
Since the introduction of the Television Viewer Protection Act in 2019, internet service providers like Atlantic Broadband cannot force you to rent their equipment. Instead, you can buy your own. However, the decision to rent or buy a modem depends on several factors.
Renting a Modem
Renting a modem is a good option for those who are in a short-term living situation or are not planning to stay with the same ISP for long. It saves you the time and effort of researching compatible modems for your ISP and comes with customer support. Additionally, you get free upgrades, replacements, and technical support. Renting a modem and router together can cost around $10 to $15 per month, and some providers include additional equipment or services with the rental fee. For example, Atlantic Broadband charges an $11 monthly fee for its gateway and includes two SuperPods that use AI technology to extend your Wi-Fi coverage.
Buying a Modem
Purchasing your own modem can save you money in the long run, especially if you plan to stay with the same ISP for several years. For example, if you rent a modem at $15 per month, you will spend $360 in two years, whereas buying a $150 modem will cost you less than the first year's rental fee. Buying your own modem also gives you more control over your internet connection and home network setup. Additionally, you can resell the modem when you no longer need it, potentially recouping some of your costs.
Factors to Consider
When deciding whether to rent or buy a modem, consider your budget, how long you plan to stay with your current ISP, and whether you need the latest technology. If you are comfortable making a long-term commitment to an ISP and want more control over your network setup, buying a modem is a good option. However, if you prefer short-term commitments and want the convenience of customer support and equipment upgrades, renting may be a better choice.
Montana Rent Late Fees: What's Legal?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![ARRIS (SBG10) - Cable Modem Router Combo - DOCSIS 3.0 16 x 4 Gigabit & AC1600 WiFi, For Comcast Xfinity, Cox, check with ISP for compatibility [Not for Spectrum] 400 Mbps Max Internet Speeds](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51cZX1MBpSL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![ARRIS (SB6183)-Cable Modem - Fast DOCSIS 3.0 16x4 Gigabit, For Comcast Xfinity, Cox,check with ISP for compatibility[Not for Spectrum],1 Gbps Port, 400 Mbps Max Internet Speed, 2 Year Warranty - Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51vjDg2HJnL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![ARRIS (SB6190) - Cable Modem - DOCSIS 3.0 32x8 Gigabit Modem, For Comcast Xfinity, Cox, check with ISP for compatibility [Not for Spectrum] 1 Gbps Port, 800 Mbps Max Speed, 2 Year Warranty - White](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51vl+LrVPpL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Modem compatibility
Atlantic Broadband customers can either rent a modem from the company or buy their own. The company publishes a list of approved modems for its internet service, which includes both DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 modems. DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest standard and is faster and more expensive than DOCSIS 3.0.
If you rent a modem from Atlantic Broadband, you will have to pay a monthly fee, which is $11 for the gateway. This amounts to $132 in a year. The company also offers additional equipment, such as SuperPods, which use cloud-based AI technology to extend your Wi-Fi coverage and include cyber security and ad-blocking software. If you rent a modem, you will get two SuperPods for free. However, if you terminate your internet service, you must return the modem in the same condition as it was provided to you.
If you buy your own modem, you can save money in the long run, as modem rental fees can amount to $396 in three years. Additionally, you may get better performance with your own modem, especially if you have the Unlimted UltraFast plan or above. However, if you plan to change your internet service provider soon, renting may be a better option, as the modem you buy might not work with your future ISP.
One recommended modem for Atlantic Broadband is the Motorola MB8600, which provides fast and reliable DOCSIS 3.1 internet at a fair price.
Know Your Rights: Arizona Renters' Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Rental costs
Atlantic Broadband customers can choose to rent a modem from the company or buy their own. The rental option costs $11 per month, or $14.99 per month, according to different sources. This amounts to $132 per year or $180 per year, respectively.
Renting a modem can be a good option for those who plan to change their internet service provider (ISP) soon, as a purchased modem may not work with a new ISP. Additionally, Atlantic Broadband includes two SuperPods with the modem rental, which use cloud-based AI technology to extend Wi-Fi coverage and include cybersecurity and ad-blocking software.
However, renting a modem over a longer period of time can become more costly than buying one. If Atlantic Broadband upgrades its modems every three years, which is the typical duration, a customer would spend $396 on rental fees, whereas a good DOCSIS 3.0 modem costs $100-$150. The rented modem also has to be returned to Atlantic Broadband upon termination of the internet service, whereas a purchased modem does not have to be returned and can be used for longer than three years.
Dollar Rental Customer Service: Quick and Easy Ways to Connect
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Modem performance
Firstly, it's important to understand the difference between DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 modems. DOCSIS 3.1 is the newer and faster option, capable of delivering multi-gig download speeds and gigabit upload speeds. However, it is also more expensive. DOCSIS 3.0 modems are slower but more affordable. Atlantic Broadband allows the use of DOCSIS 3.0 modems for speeds up to 600 Mbps. If your internet plan exceeds this speed, you will need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem to avoid bottlenecking your connection and not getting the speed you are paying for.
When it comes to specific modem recommendations, the Motorola MB8600 is suggested as the best-approved modem for Atlantic Broadband by a Network Engineer. It provides fast and reliable DOCSIS 3.1 internet at a reasonable price. Another option is the Arris SURFboard S33, which is widely compatible with internet service providers and plans. It offers a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port and a two-year warranty.
If you opt for renting a modem from Atlantic Broadband, you will be provided with a decent modem and a mesh network. However, purchasing your own modem can offer better performance, especially for higher-tier plans like UltraFast. By buying a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, you can future-proof your setup and potentially achieve faster speeds than those offered by rental modems.
In terms of cost, renting a modem from Atlantic Broadband incurs a monthly fee of $11 to $14.99, which can amount to $132 to $180 per year. On the other hand, buying a good DOCSIS 3.0 modem and a WiFi router can cost around $300, which is a one-time expense that can provide better performance and save you money in the long run.
Renting Out Your Condo: A Guide to Going Agent-Free
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Modem types
A modem is a device that converts digital signals into analogue signals and vice versa, facilitating data transfer between computers and other networks. There are various types of modems available, each with distinct features and benefits. Here is a description of some of the most common modem types:
Dial-up Modem: This type of modem converts digital information from a computer into an analogue signal suitable for telephone lines and enables data transfer through standard phone connections. It can transmit data at a rate of up to 56 Kbps (Kilobits per second).
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) Modem: DSL technology allows for high-speed internet connections using existing telephone lines. Asymmetric DSL (ADSL) is a common type of DSL that prioritises download rates over upload rates, making it ideal for home users who primarily download content such as videos.
Cable Modem: Cable modems establish a connection between computer systems and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), providing access to high-speed data through cable TV networks. They are typically connected to desktops or systems as external devices.
Satellite Modem: Satellite modems provide an internet connection through satellite dishes. They transmit input bits into output radio signals and vice versa, offering a more reliable and efficient connection compared to other types of modems.
Optical Modem: Optical modems utilise optical cables instead of metallic media to transfer signals, providing an alternative to traditional metallic cable connections.
DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) Modem: DOCSIS modems are used for cable internet services. There are different versions of DOCSIS protocols, such as DOCSIS 2.0, DOCSIS 3.0, and DOCSIS 3.1, with each offering varying speeds and capabilities. DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest standard, providing faster speeds compared to its predecessors.
Grand Teton Camping: Can You Rent Tents?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
No, you don't have to rent a modem from Atlantic Broadband. You can buy your own modem, which will save you money in the long run.
Renting a modem and gateway from Atlantic Broadband costs $14.99 per month, which includes two SuperPods to extend your Wi-Fi coverage.
Renting a modem can be a good option if you plan to change your internet service provider soon, as you won't be stuck with a modem that may not work with your new provider. Additionally, you won't have to worry about installation or maintenance, as Atlantic Broadband will take care of that.
Buying your own modem can save you money, as you won't have to pay monthly rental fees. You can also choose a modem that offers better performance and faster speeds than the rental option.
The Motorola MB8600 is recommended as it provides fast and reliable DOCSIS 3.1 internet at a fair price. For DOCSIS 3.0 modems, options such as the ARRIS S33 Cable Modem and NETGEAR AX6000 CAX80 WiFi 6 Router are also compatible with Atlantic Broadband.
