Considering a switch from a stock router to a stock modem, also check if the modem needs an upgrade.
Considering a switch from a stock router to a stock modem, also check if the modem needs an upgrade.
While purchasing parts for my PC today, I upgraded to a router that’s about five years old. We’re always running 10–15 devices and noticed slower speeds and weaker connections. It turned out the issue wasn’t with the ISP. I’m not very familiar with networking, so I’m unsure if a new modem is necessary. Since my PC won’t be near an Ethernet port and isn’t intended for that use, should I get a new modem or can the existing one work? I don’t want to spend extra unless it’s really needed.
It depends on your internet speed and the modem model. Look up your modem's specifications to determine if it supports DOCSIS 2 or 3. If it's still DOCSIS 2, consider upgrading. With DOCSIS 3 you should be okay with your existing device.
Some folks stick with older setups. You often see DSL discussions everywhere. Upgrades happen when the cable service ends or speeds drop, or when providers force modems to fail so customers switch. Still, there are DOSIS 2.0 modems available.
Looking into DOCSIS settings, you haven’t seen any guidance on Charter’s site about supported modems. It’s possible your new router isn’t compatible with the current setup.
Charter doesn't support DSL; they use cable connections. From what I understand, they generally resist consumer-operated modems. Purchasing modems from them can be tricky since the device must display a label showing its type. If not, you might need to access 192.168.100.1 via a web browser. Navigate to the signals section and check for multiple downstream or upstream channels—this indicates Docsis 3.0 implementation, when channel bonding was introduced. Cable modems typically employ several frequencies on the line to handle both incoming (download) and outgoing (upload) data. This document outlines the current status of your cable modem's upstream and downstream signals. Below is an example relevant to your device. I own an SB6141, which is an 8X4 modem. You’ll find 8 downstream and 4 upstream channels. This varies by provider; for instance, just a year ago we had only 3 upstream channels. Previously, downstream channel bonding was limited. For details on signal quality, refer to the page linked for my setup. I’m using the SB6141, an 8X4 model. I noticed 8 downstream and 4 upstream channels. This information differs by service. Once, we used just 3 upstream channels until recently. Downstream channel bonding has changed significantly. This site explains the present status of your cable modem’s signal. The following is a sample showing what you should expect. It’s the page for my unit. My modem is SB6141 with an 8X4 configuration. If you see the listed channels, it confirms the setup. Note that channel numbers and values change over time. Signal-to-noise ratios range from 38 dB to 39 dB, with modulation schemes like QAM256 and various QPSK/32QAM formats. Power levels are displayed in dBmV, and status updates are shown for each channel. Please refresh the page if you need the latest reading.
You definitely get Coax. Beyond the modem, they don’t pay attention and can’t do much about it. You’ll find a list of compatible modems here: https://www.timewarnercable.com/en/suppo...#/approved. Just avoid the SB6190 and you should be fine most of the time.