Does Cox Internet include WiFi?
The essential utility of having an internet connection in the house in the present day society is for browsing the internet for entertainment, watching videos listening to music, gaming, et cetera. Cox is among the leading ISPs in the country, with service packages for the internet that enable high-speed access. Nonetheless, a frequently asked question that many customers ask is whether or not Cox Internet comes with WiFi, or does the customer needs to purchase the router separately. Let's find out.
What is WiFi?
WiFi, often known as Wireless Fidelity, is a technique using radio frequencies to provide high-speed Wireless Network access. On computers, cellphones, tablets, and other devices, they enable you to create an internet connection free from cables. Using a gadget known as a wireless router or modem, which generates a wireless signal your devices can subsequently access, a wireless Internet connection is established.
Therefore, for home internet access, you need both - the ISP as in Cox that provides the home with an internet connection, and a wireless router that transmits the WiFi signal throughout the house. The router is connected to the modem to get the internet signals and then transmits the internet signals in the form of airwaves to create a WiFi network.
Cox does offer a WiFi router, and customers may have to rent one from Cox or purchase a compatible router from a different provider.
This question has a short answer, and that answer is yes, Cox internet plans do include a WiFi router. When you opt for an internet package with Cox like the Starter, StraightUp Internet, or the Ultimate Internet, you are offered a modem router that requires a coax cable to connect to the internet but also offers WiFi connectivity.
That way, when you get Cox Internet, you do not need to buy your wireless router separately. The WiFi router they provide is what brings internet to your home network and uses it to connect all your devices such as laptops, phones, streaming sticks, etc through WiFi technology.
Cox Panoramic WiFi Gateway
The Cox Panoramic WiFi Gateway is the WiFi router that comes packaged with all internet offers at no additional charge. It is an all-in-one modem and WiFi router with the following features:
- WiFi that is compatible with both the 2.4 GHz and 5Ghz frequency bands
- The fast wireless speeds are achieved with the help of 802.11ac technology.
- Four RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet to support wired devices.
- 2 phone ports, offering digital phone options
- WiFi connectivity that reaches up to 2000 sq. ft. area
This advanced WiFi router offers all-around home networking with one device that fits in the palm of your hand. The Panoramic gateway sends signals on the 2.4 GHz and 5GHz to allow for connection without interference. WiFi 6 is also supported and ensures faster speeds for incompatible devices.
The network can be further controlled from the Cox Panoramic Wifi app or website which includes options to enable parental controls, check connectivity problems, and much more.
I am using My Router.
When subscribing to Cox Internet, Cox provides a Panoramic modem/router that you can swap with your own distinct third-party WiFi router. However, just keep in mind that you would still incur the $5 monthly WiFi modem rental fee to Cox if you bring your device. If you do not wish to be charged for hardware, then you will have to sign up for a plan that is free of Cox equipment – known as StraightUp Internet.
Third-party wireless routers are very easy to set up, all you need to do is plug the WAN port in your WiFi router to the Ethernet port in the Cox modem. This connects the personal router with the Cox Internet and can then amplify the WiFi signal in your house. Another advantage of using your router is the ability to provide more options in regards to whole-home mesh systems.
As for most homeowners, the Cox’s Panoramic WiFi Gateway included in the service will suffice in terms of performance with consistent connectivity range for several rooms and multiple device support. Single third-party routers might not be as effective as complex mesh systems can be for large spaces, as the latter does not seem to have a range of issues.
Cox WiFi Hotspots
In addition to the network in your own home, Cox internet service also gives you free access to over 3 million Cox WiFi Hotspots across the country. This is especially useful when you are on the move – around restaurants, shopping malls, airports, etc., and can log into these WiFi hotspots with the help of your Cox internet login ID and continue browsing the internet for free.
It is Cox’s biggest public WiFi network in the United States implemented in hotels, shopping areas, parks, and other open places. This may provide Internet connections for connecting mobile devices even when you are not near home WiFi. Communicating is also very simple through the Cox Hotspots app, which shows active hotspots near your current location.
Should You Be Using WiFi Extenders?
If you have your home or office wireless network, and there are some areas where the WiFi signal is weak or nonexistent, you may need WiFi extenders or boosters. Such networking devices input the existing WiFi signal, increase its power, and then retransmit the strengthened signal to eliminate dead zones.
Cox offers to enhance your Panoramic WiFi coverage with WiFi extenders. Cox offers its customers portable WiFi extenders for rent or purchase that are compatible with the Panoramic gateway. The same SSID should be used as this eliminates network hopping whenever you move from one section of the house to another. Moreover, the installation of a Cox WiFi extender is allowed which forms a part of installation services.
You can also employ third-party WiFi extenders to enhance the connectivity of WiFi blackout zones. Since both router and extender placements are crucial for the best signal coverage, Cox WiFi consultations can evaluate the current home layout and determine the best placement of the equipment. Making wireless distribution better in this way helps experience more signal boost from one room to the next.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to note that all the internet packages offered by Cox do come with a modem/router gateway device that transmits WiFi signals to networking machinery in your home. Hence there is no need to buy additional equipment to be able to use WiFi which is another advantage of going for Cox when in need of internet services. Flexible and fast internet connectivity and the availability of hotspots on the move are made possible by the provision of Cox Internet.
Ready to upgrade your internet experience? Call us now at +1 844-349-7575 to explore the best Cox Internet plans for your needs!