Bring your own modem (BYOM)
Can I bring my own modem?
Yes, broadband internet customers can bring their own modem in Astound Broadband service areas. Fiber-to-the-home or Ethernet internet customers with symmetrical speeds see here.
What type of modem should I bring?
DOCSIS 3.1
Compatible with all of our available speed tiers 940Mbps and less.
32 Downstream Channels+OFDM
Offers optimal performance and speed capability
DOCSIS 3.1 with 2.5GE Physical LAN port
Compatible with all of our available speed tiers above 940Mbps
32 Downstream Channels+OFDM plus 2.5GE port
Examples of Astound certified modems commonly available in retail stores:
| Make | Model Type | Description | Port Type | Wi-Fi |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motorola | MT8733 | Modem and WIFI | 3x1G & 1×2.5G | WiFi 6 |
| Motorola | MG8725 | Modem and WIFI | 3x1G & 1×2.5G | WiFi 6 |
| Motorola | MB8611 | Modem only | 1×2.5G | No WIFI |
| Netgear | CM2000 | Modem only | 1×2.5G | No WIFI |
| Netgear | CM2050V | Modem only | 1×2.5G | No WIFI |
| Netgear | AX6000 | Modem and WIFI | 4x1G & 1×2.5G | WiFi 6 |
| Arris | G36 | Modem and WIFI | 4x1G & 1×2.5G | WiFi 6 |
| Arris | S33 | Modem only | 1x1G & 1×2.5G | No WIFI |
Currently the Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 is known to have problems connecting to the Astound Broadband network. Additionally, EURODOCSIS cable modems are not supported in the United States.
If I bring my own modem, what should I be aware of?
DOCSIS 3.1 is compatible with all of our available speed tiers and offers optimal performance. For speed tiers above 940Mbps Astound recommends a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with a 2.5GE port to provide a physical port that can pass more than 940Mbps. Modems without a 2.5GE port are sometimes capable of passing more than 940Mbps across WIFI and multiple physical ports simultaneously. If you purchase a standalone modem and separate WIFI standalone router, a 2.5GE port capable WIFI router is required to achieve speeds above 940Mbps. At certain times, we may provide automatic speed upgrades. If your modem is not capable of receiving the upgraded speeds, you will need to buy a new modem to receive those speeds. If you wish to use your own equipment, please see our minimum recommendations and also check your manufacturer’s website for technical specifications. Please note that while some manufacturers indicate they provide and support a specific range of internet speeds, we strongly recommend certain specifications in order to receive optimal Astound Broadband internet speeds, ensure compatibility with your service and allow for future speed upgrades.
As technology evolves, and network improvements are made, the above recommendations could change at any time. We may not always be able to notify you in advance of changes to these requirements, and we reserve the right to update these requirements as needed.
I have my own modem, but it is not 3.1 DOCSIS. Can I still use it?
If you wish to use your own modem, and it is not the recommended 3.1 DOCSIS modem you can use DOCSIS 3.0 with 32 downstream channels, however, to receive the following speeds, please note the limitations on performance for non 3.1 DOCSIS modems
- Speeds up to 1 Gig (1000 Mbps) – DOCSIS 3.1 modem.
- Maximum speeds up to 400 Mbps – DOCSIS 3.0 modem (32 or 24 channels down)
- Maximum speeds of up to 250 Mbps – DOCSIS 3.0 modem (16 channels down) or better.
Currently the Motorola MB8600 is not compatible with the Astound Broadband network. We continue to work with the manufacturers to certify the modems, and will update when this is completed. EURODOCSIS cable modems are not supported in the United States.
Reminder: Internet download speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Observed speeds may vary by customer based on device, connection, & other factors outside of Astound Broadband’s control.*
Where can I purchase an Astound Broadband approved modem?
At a local computer/electronics store or online retailer.
I am a current Internet customer. How do I switch to BYOM?
Purchase a modem from a retailer. Once you properly connect your new modem to the coax cable in your home, contact an Astound Broadband support representative at 1.800.427.8686 and let us know the MAC address from the new modem. You must return your Astound Broadband cable modem to your closest local office to avoid monthly rental charges. If you are unable to install the modem yourself, you will be charged a fee to have a technician professionally install the new modem and retrieve the Astound Broadband modem from your home.
Can Astound Broadband Digital Phone customers have BYOM?
Yes. Customers who use both services can bring their own modem, however, they will still need an Astound Broadband EMTA (Embedded Multimedia Terminal Adapter) to use Digital Phone service in addition to their BYOM compatible modem
Are there any BYOM restrictions?
Yes. You are not able to use your own modem in these scenarios:
- Digital Phone customers must use an Astound Broadband EMTA for their phone service.
- Customers who reside in an Astound Broadband fiber-to-the-home or Ethernet-delivered area must use an Astound Broadband internet device.
If I no longer want BYOM service, how do I get an Astound Broadband cable modem again?
You may pick up a modem at a local Astound Broadband office or request a technician installation for an additional fee.
Can I hook up my own purchased modem instead of paying a fee to have an Astound Broadband technician come to my home?
Yes. Connect your new modem to the coax cable in your home, and then contact a Astound Broadband support representative at 1.800.427.8686 and let us know the MAC address from the new modem. You must return your Astound Broadband cable modem to your closest local office to avoid monthly rental charges.
What if I have already paid for a technician to install my BYOM and that BYOM breaks? Do I have to pay another fee to have a technician visit my home to install the new BYOM?
Yes, if you wish for a technician to install the new device. If you have already installed the new BYOM, then simply contact an Astound Broadband support representative at 1.800.427.8686 and let us know the MAC address from the new modem.
Will Astound Broadband sell the Astound-owned modem to me?
At this time, Astound Broadband does not sell any Astound-owned equipment.
What type of modem should I bring for speeds of 1 Gbps (up to 940 Mbps) or lower?
DOCSIS 3.1
- Compatible with most of our available speed tiers
- 32 Downstream Channels
- Offers optimal performance, speed capability and stability
Currently the Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 is known to have problems connecting to the Astound Broadband network. Additionally, EURODOCSIS cable modems are not supported in the United States.
If I bring my own modem, what should I be aware of?
DOCSIS 3.1 is compatible with most of our available speed tiers and offers optimal performance. At certain times, we may provide automatic speed upgrades. If your modem is not capable of receiving the upgraded speeds, you will need to buy a new modem to receive those speeds. If you wish to use your own equipment, please see our minimum recommendations and also check your manufacturer’s website for technical specifications.
Please note that while some manufacturers indicate they provide and support a specific range of internet speeds, we strongly recommend certain specifications in order to receive optimal Astound Broadband internet speeds, ensure compatibility with your service and allow for future speed upgrades.
As technology evolves, and network improvements are made, the above recommendations could change at any time. We may not always be able to notify you in advance of changes to these requirements, and we reserve the right to update these requirements as needed.
I have my own modem, but it is not 3.1 DOCSIS. Can I still use it?
If you wish to use your own modem, and it is not the recommended 3.1 DOCSIS modem you can use DOCSIS 3.0 with 32 downstream channels, however, to receive the following speeds, please note the limitations on performance for non 3.1 DOCSIS modems:
- Speeds up to 1 Gig (940 Mbps) – DOCSIS 3.1 modem.
- Maximum speeds up to 400 Mbps – DOCSIS 3.0 modem (32 or 24 channels down)
- Maximum speeds of up to 250 Mbps – DOCSIS 3.0 modem (16 channels down) or better.
Currently the Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 is known to have problems connecting to the Astound Broadband network. Additionally, EURODOCSIS cable modems are not supported in the United States.
Reminder: Internet download speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Observed speeds may vary by customer based on device, connection, & other factors outside of Astound Broadband’s control.*
Where can I purchase an Astound Broadband approved modem?
At a local computer/electronics store or online retailer.
I am a current Internet customer. How do I switch to BYOM?
Purchase a modem from a retailer. Once you properly connect your new modem to the coax cable in your home, contact an Astound Broadband support representative at 1.800.427.8686 and let us know the MAC address from the new modem. You must return your Astound Broadband cable modem to your closest local office to avoid monthly rental charges.
If you are unable to install the modem yourself, you will be charged a fee to have a technician professionally install the new modem and retrieve the Astound Broadband modem from your home.
Can Astound Broadband Digital Phone customers have BYOM?
Yes. Customers who use both services can bring their own modem, however, they will still need an Astound Broadband EMTA (Embedded Multimedia Terminal Adapter) to use Digital Phone service in addition to their BYOM compatible modem.
If I no longer want BYOM service, how do I get an Astound Broadband cable modem again?
You may pick up a modem at a local Astound Broadband office or request a technician installation for an additional fee. See rate card.
Can I hook up my own purchased modem instead of paying a fee to have an Astound Broadband technician come to my home?
Yes. Connect your new modem to the coax cable in your home, and then contact a Astound Broadband support representative at 1.800.427.8686 and let us know the MAC address from the new modem.
You must return your Astound Broadband cable modem to your closest local office to avoid monthly rental charges.
What if I have already paid for a technician to install my BYOM and that BYOM breaks?
Do I have to pay another fee to have a technician visit my home to install the new BYOM?
Yes, if you wish for a technician to install the new device. If you have already installed the new BYOM, then simply contact an Astound Broadband support representative at 1.800.427.8686 and let us know the MAC address from the new modem.
Will Astound Broadband sell the Astound-owned modem to me?
At this time, Astound Broadband does not sell any Astound-owned equipment.
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*Internet download speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Certain equipment may be required to receive advertised speeds. Observed speeds may vary based on device connection & other factors outside of Astound’s control. All advertised speeds are up to the stated speeds and are not guaranteed; speed may vary due to conditions outside of network control, including customer location, sites accessed, number of devices connected, customer usage, customer equipment and computer configuration, the level of overall traffic, and customer compliance with Astound usage policies set forth in the acceptable usage policy. See astound.com/yourspeed for why speeds may vary. Our FCC Network Management Disclosure makes available information regarding our network management practices and the performance and commercial terms of our Internet access services to enable you to make informed choices regarding the purchase and use of our services, in accordance with Part 8 of the Rules of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Modem required for internet service. We substantiate that the cable modem equipment provided, and the configuration of such cable modem, meets the broadband speeds advertised when attached to a wired connection based on SamKnows testing procedures.
Not all services, speeds, packages, equipment, channels, tiers, pricing, streaming services, product offerings and product features are available in all areas. Offers valid only for new residential customers or previous customers with account in good standing who have not had our service within the last 60 days. All names, logos, images and service marks are property of their respective owners. Other restrictions may apply.