Elijah Grant
RCN offers internet and phone services to its customers. The company does not sell modems directly to its customers but allows them to rent or buy their own modems. If you are subscribed to a bundle, you can use your own RCN-compatible modem, but there are some restrictions. For instance, only cable internet subscribers can use their own modems, while customers subscribed to a digital phone will have to use RCN's EMTA modem. Customers with fiber-to-the-home or Ethernet-delivered service must use an RCN internet device.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Need to rent RCN cable modem | Not necessary; you can use your own cable modem and router to avoid rental fees |
| Buying vs. renting a modem | Buying a compatible modem can save money in the long run, especially if you upgrade your plan and need to buy a new modem |
| Performance | Buying your own modem can offer better performance, more adjustment options, and better security features |
| Customer support | Renting a modem provides priority customer support, while buying your own may result in limited support and potential extra charges for technical issues |
| Compatible modems | NETGEAR CM400 (8x4) DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem, Motorola MB8611, NETGEAR Nighthawk CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem |
| Incompatible modems | Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 (not compatible with Astound Broadband network), EURODOCSIS cable modems (not supported in the US) |
| Phone service | Requires RCN's EMTA modem or eMTA device |
| Fiber service | Requires RCN equipment; cannot use your own modem |
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What You'll Learn
Renting vs. buying: the pros and cons
Renting an RCN cable modem may be a good option if you're looking for convenience and don't mind paying a monthly fee. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Renting an RCN Cable Modem: Pros
- Convenience: RCN provides the modem, so you don't have to worry about purchasing your own or researching compatible models.
- Technical Support: Renting from RCN may provide you with priority technical support, which can be helpful if you're not comfortable troubleshooting issues on your own.
- Regular Upgrades: RCN may offer free modem upgrades when newer models become available, ensuring you have access to the latest technology.
Renting an RCN Cable Modem: Cons
- Monthly Fee: Renting a modem from RCN incurs an additional monthly charge, which can increase your overall expenses.
- Limited Choices: When renting from RCN, you are limited to the modems they offer, which may not provide the same level of performance or features as purchasing your own.
- Potential Compatibility Issues: In some cases, RCN may require you to rent their modem, especially if you subscribe to specific services like digital phone or fiber internet. This can limit your options and may result in additional costs.
Buying an RCN Compatible Cable Modem: Pros
- Cost-Effective: Purchasing your own modem can save you money in the long run, as you avoid paying monthly rental fees. The modem can pay for itself in a few months.
- Performance: Buying your own modem allows you to choose a model that offers better performance, more adjustment options, and enhanced security features.
- Freedom of Choice: You have the freedom to choose from a wide range of RCN-compatible modems, allowing you to select a model that best suits your needs and preferences.
Buying an RCN Compatible Cable Modem: Cons
- Initial Cost: Purchasing a modem requires an upfront investment, which may be a significant expense, especially if you're also paying for other equipment or services.
- Technical Support: Buying your own modem may result in limited customer support from RCN, and you may have to pay extra for technical assistance if needed.
- Upgrade Costs: If you upgrade your internet plan and your existing modem doesn't support the new speeds, you'll need to purchase a new modem at your own expense.
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RCN-compatible modems
If you're an RCN customer, you can rent a modem and router from RCN, or you can choose to bring your own equipment. If you're getting phone service from RCN, you'll need to use their modem. If you're only getting internet service, you can use any DOCSIS 3.0 modem or DOCSIS 3.1 for faster speeds.
- NETGEAR CM400 (8x4) DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem: Certified for Xfinity from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, Cablevision & more, with maximum download speeds of 340 Mbps.
- ARRIS Touchstone DG1670: A 3-in-1 gateway device included with RCN Internet speeds of 330 Mbps or 110 Mbps in Lehigh Valley. It integrates a router, wireless access point, and MOCA bridge, but does not have a telephony connection.
- SURFboard SB8163 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem: Features 16 downstream x 4 upstream channels for high-speed internet access, compatible with major US Cable Internet providers and speed plans up to 400 Mbps.
- CM1000 Ultra-High Speed Cable Modem: DOCSIS 3.1 compatible with speeds up to 1 Gbps, 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0. Backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 and ready for future service plan upgrades.
- Nighthawk CM3000: A multi-gigabit speed cable modem by NETGEAR, supporting link aggregation for true multi-gigabit Internet speeds. DOCSIS 3.1 compatible and future-proof, with upload speeds up to 1 Gbps and download speeds up to 2.5 Gbps.
- SURFboard G36: A DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and Wi-Fi 6 Router combo, compatible with major US cable internet service providers and speed plans up to 2.5 Gbps. It features a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port and four 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports.
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RCN's rental fees
RCN charges a monthly rental fee for its cable modems, which can increase the overall cost of the service. The rental fee for a 3.0 modem, for example, is $10 per month.
RCN customers have the option to rent a modem/router combo from the company or bring their own device. Those who choose to bring their own modem can avoid rental fees, but they may need to purchase a specific model to be compatible with RCN's service. For instance, if a customer selects an RCN Internet speed of 330 Mbps or 110 Mbps in Lehigh Valley, they must use the Arris Touchstone DG1670 gateway provided by RCN. This device is included with the service and combines a modem, router, and MoCa bridge into one unit.
Some customers have expressed frustration with being required to rent a modem from RCN, especially when they already own a compatible device. In some cases, customers have been able to successfully negotiate with RCN to use their own equipment and avoid rental fees.
It is worth noting that RCN also charges additional fees, such as a "Network Access and Maintenance Fee" of $12.97 per month, which can impact the overall cost of the service. These extra fees have been a source of frustration for some customers, who feel that they are not adequately disclosed during the sign-up process.
Therefore, while it is possible to rent a cable modem from RCN, customers should be aware of the associated rental fees and consider alternative options, such as purchasing their own compatible modem, to potentially save on costs.
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Modem installation
If you are an RCN customer, you can either rent a modem from them or buy your own RCN-compatible modem.
RCN offers the Arris Touchstone DG1670 gateway as part of its service if you have selected RCN Internet speed of 330 Mbps or 110 Mbps in Lehigh Valley. This is a 3-in-1 device, so you don't need a separate wired or wireless router. However, if you want to use your own modem, you can.
If you are subscribed to a bundle, you can use your own RCN-compatible modem, but there are some restrictions. Cable internet subscribers can use their own modems, but customers subscribed to a digital phone will have to use RCN's EMTA modem. Fiber subscribers will also have to use RCN equipment; using your own modem is not an option for fiber service.
If you decide to use your own modem, you will need to connect it to the coax cable in your home. Then, you will need to contact RCN customer support to activate your modem and follow their instructions.
If you are unable to install the modem yourself, you can pay a fee to have a technician professionally install it for you.
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RCN's customer support for rented vs. owned modems
RCN customers have the option to rent a modem from the company or use their own. While renting a modem may be more convenient for some, purchasing your own modem can save you money in the long run.
If you choose to rent a modem from RCN, you will be charged a monthly rental fee, which can add up over time. Additionally, customers who rent a modem from RCN will have priority when it comes to customer support. This means that if you own your modem and experience technical issues, you may have to pay extra for support or wait longer for a resolution.
On the other hand, if you decide to purchase your own RCN-compatible modem, you can save a significant amount of money. According to some estimates, renting a modem and router from RCN can cost between $180 and $240 per year, depending on your location. By purchasing your own equipment, you can avoid these ongoing rental fees.
However, it's important to keep in mind that if you choose to buy your own modem, you will be responsible for installing it and ensuring it is compatible with your RCN plan. RCN provides instructions and minimum requirements for different internet speeds on their website, but you may need to spend time researching and comparing different modems to find the best option for your needs. Additionally, if you are unable to install the modem yourself, you will need to pay a fee for a technician to install it for you.
In terms of customer support, RCN has a mixed reputation. While some customers have reported positive experiences and praised RCN for its customer support, others have mentioned having to argue with the company about using their own equipment. It's worth noting that if you rent a modem from RCN, you may have an easier time getting support, as rental customers are given priority.
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Frequently asked questions
RCN allows you to use your own modem and router, so you don't have to pay rental fees if you don't want to. However, there are some restrictions. Only cable internet subscribers can use their own modem.
Customers who rent will have priority when it comes to customer support. You may have to pay extra for support if you have your own modem.
You can save money by buying your own cable modem, as rental fees can add up over time. You can also get better performance and more adjustment options by purchasing your own equipment.
You will need to purchase a compatible modem and connect it to the coax cable in your home. Then, contact RCN customer support to activate your modem and follow their instructions.
Yes, there are some restrictions and requirements. For example, customers with digital phone service will need to use RCN's EMTA modem. Fiber subscribers must also use RCN equipment. Additionally, you must return any rented RCN modem to avoid ongoing rental charges.
