

The tech department supports the equipment. They own the cable modem and wireless router you’re using.
Cabke modem vs router free#
Free Tech Support. If something goes wrong, your Internet provider will fix it.They are in charge of providing replacements when there are upgrades available. When you rent equipment, your Internet service provider handles everything.
Cabke modem vs router upgrade#
And most ISPs like to upgrade devices every few years to keep up with technology.
Cabke modem vs router install#
Buying a cable modem means that you’ll have to install it yourself. And this is one of the things that pushes customers toward a rented modem and wireless router. This only changed in recent years when congress passed a law preventing them to do so. There was a time when an Internet service provider could charge you for equipment you owned. This creates a sense of exclusivity that makes you set the company apart from others.Įven if you buy the equipment, a lot of times providers prefer you buy it through them. That increases the chances of you sticking with them for the long haul.Ī way of doing this is by setting up parameters for approved modems. They prefer it if you rent the equipment through them. Providers are not interested in you getting your equipment. And they’re particular about the compatible modems they use for their Internet connection. Most ISPs have rules about the kind of equipment they’re looking for. CompatibilityĪ major deterrent to buying your own cable modem and router is the issue of compatibility. Even if it means dealing with cable modem service issues or rate increases. The more a contract can prevent you from going somewhere else, the better. Rentals Are RoadblocksĪ good way to make things difficult for you to switch providers is to tie you with a contract. And not having to do the installation themselves makes the prices worth it. To many consumers, a monthly fee of $8 to $10 per month is reasonable. They want to make sure they choose the right Internet plan and that their home network is working. Most consumers don’t want to have to deal with setting up their router or modem. And renting equipment streamlines this process. Providers are in the business of connectivity. About $300 million is added to their bottom line. Every quarter, Comcast Xfinity makes a large sum of money from cable modem rentals. Renting a modem is a source of revenue for any cable company. There are also a few other reasons why they don’t like customers purchasing their own devices. They prefer to rent you the equipment because they get to add a nice rental fee to the monthly bill. Internet service providers like to charge for everything. Why Would an Internet Service Provider Rent Equipment? It’s better for them if the customer continues to rent instead of deciding to buy equipment. Internet service providers include rental fees as part of their package. If you have Internet access, there’s a chance you’re renting a modem and router. Renting Equipment from Internet Service Providers Here’s everything you need to know about buying your own modem/router combo.

Now’s the time to consider investing in your own modem and router.Ī lot can change on your monthly Internet bill when you buy your equipment. And rental fees will continue to increase. It doesn’t look like the Internet will go away anytime soon.
But the one thing everybody has in common is their need for an Internet connection. Yet, at the end of the year, you’ll have paid close to $150 per year in equipment fees.Įveryone’s living situation is different. But, is it cost-effective in the long run? Rental fees don’t add up to much to your monthly Internet bill. Internet service providers indeed give you the option to rent modems and routers. And they understand your need for equipment so that you can have good Internet service. Having reliable Internet access is a necessity. To have an Internet connection, you need a modem and router.
