Does Cox Give you a Free Modem?
Having internet at home usually consists of two parts – the internet service provider (ISP) and the modem. The ISP is the organization that gives Internet connectivity to your home and transmits the signal by cable, DSL, fiber optic, or some other way. It then transmits the signal to the modem and the modem translates it into a wifi network which can be connected by your devices.
When one takes a subscription to Internet service from an ISP such as Cox, one of the choices that one makes is whether to use own modem or hire from the service provider. Yes, Cox I know does offer modems but they come with a monthly rental fee most of the time. Does Cox offer free modem equipment or is it necessary to pay for all equipment regardless of the situation? What follows is a brief that you should know.
Cox Equipment Fees
Cox has an Equipment Rental Fee which includes cable modems and wifi routers for a monthly fee. The fee can be fixed according to your market or may differ with the package but is usually between $10- $15 per month for the modem and router.
If you are a Cox subscriber using a modem provided by the company, you’ll continue to see the monthly rental costs rolled into your internet service rates. You have to pay it if you are still using the Cox equipment, while with other options there is no such requirement. Some customers are okay to rent because Cox assumes the role of supporting, replacing equipment, or adapting to changes in technology. However, especially having to pay an indefinite rental fee for the use of the device, the costs are always going to end up higher than if one were to own their gadget.
Is there a time you are not charged for the modem by Cox?
Cox sometimes provides discounts during their initial stages to some packages and products and they can even exclude equipment fees for the first year of subscription. Be sure to read all the promotional details again so that you can determine whether the offer has an expiry date or not.
As you can see, these new customer equipment deals can help you cut costs in the short term, but you will be billed the standard rental rate once the introductory offer expires. The terms of the contract that Cox expects you to sign will state clearly when and if rental charges may be applicable later on.
In the future, you may be able to save money by using your own approved modem instead of paying Cox an indefinite amount for theirs. So let’s look at that option a little more closely.
I agree with this statement because it is very possible to use your modem with the c ox service.
Some of the new policies, which Cox has implemented include the fact that they do not force customers to rent modems and routers. This is usually cheaper in the long run than equivalent rental costs for equipment. However, not all devices will be compatible with Cox connections so, if one opts to go for the “own” option, one must be very selective.
If you would like to use your device, it will be necessary to own one that is listed with the provider Cox modem. This list is specific to the market depending on what Cox owns and runs across the United States as it houses different forms of networks. Before making any changes, always ensure to clear with Cox and have a look at the right approved modem list for your region.
However, by buying your modem, you also get to make sure that it is compatible with your current model, and you are the one who takes responsibility for support, maintenance, and replacement on your own. So if your modem requires a software upgrade or ceases to function, you will be solely responsible for getting it fixed rather than relying on the cable service provider Cox to do so.
Advice to purchase your Cox-accredited modem.
If you opt to buy your equipment to use with Cox rather than paying their rental fee, keep these tips in mind:
- It is always good to check the given modem list so that you can make your purchase based on the Cox models available in your region.
- For the best performance, choose a DOCSIS 3.0 or higher version of the modem/router.
- Expect that you have to set up the modem on your own and make it connect to Cox’s network on its own.
- Search for modem reviews and choose a more effective modem.
- It may be worth purchasing a modem/router combination unit to perform both roles.
- This should come as no surprise since problems are bound to arise and one may need to replace the modem.
- Purchase from a retailer that has a straightforward and limited return policy in the event the device is damaged or fails to work with Cox.
Avoiding Cox’s monthly modem rental fees is possible if you prefer to use your equipment at home. Just be ready to work alone for all support activities too at times Some people end up getting frustrated when they find themselves in situations where they have to work for themselves instead of relying on their partners.
But What about Cox and Netgear Equipment?
Netgear is one of the most popular modems and router brands today that provides good performance with the major cable ISPs. Since Netgear focuses primarily on networking products, they have numerous modem choices that are suitable for compatibility with providers such as Cox.
Many different Netgear cable modem models are used on Cox’s approved modem lists in its service areas. As for specific models, some Netgear routers and Cox-compatible devices are often great picks if you are getting your equipment. However, it is crucial to ensure that every model you are finding yourself interested in purchasing has been verified against Cox’s eligibility list depending on where you stay.
In summary, Netgear remains among the most recommended modem/router equipment companies that customers should associate with Cox Internet. Their devices are very much popular and instead of paying rent on COX their gadgets are often owned and connected to the COX networks. However, do not solely rely on the Netgear compatibility since there might be regional eligibility as well.
If You Can Obtain Your Modem From Other Sources Here Are Some Advantages You Stand to Gain
If you want to avoid paying the recurring rental fee to Cox but are hoping to score a free or very low-cost modem alternative, here are some other options to consider:
- If friends, family, or neighbors do not have an old modem that they can spare and allow you to use for free, then you can always purchase one from stores but make sure that the modem is on the Cox-approved equipment list. After this, it will have a second life.
- Buying from local resale sites such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or even thrift stores would be ideal since they would provide the same models at a cheaper price as compared to the retail shops.
- Cox should be contacted and the caller should inquire if any current offers offer free or heavily subsidized equipment via a loyalty program.
- It’s also recommended to try out cheaper refurbished modems that are available in major stores to ensure they come with return policies in case they do not meet the required standards.
A Closer Look at Modern Ownership with Cox
Lastly, Cox offers their cable modems and wifi routers as equipment for rent with a fee at the end of the day. This amount gets billed every month and continues to form part of your normal internet subscription charges. The only issue is that Cox may occasionally come up with what seems like a free modem for a certain period, but normally, the standard fees tend to creep in within a short while.
To cut long rental charges by Cox, your best bet is often to buy your compatible modem. This goes a long way in putting the responsibility of maintenance and replacement on your side instead of Cox but could translate to massive savings.
Again, it is recommended that you check modem compatibility with your area on Cox’s modem list, read and compare various modem reviews before purchasing, and make sure you keep your receipt and packaging in case you need to return the modem purchased. The process of owning a property rather than renting has its own set of considerations that need to be made. However, freeing up Cox’s monthly equipment charges can be extremely worthwhile, which permanently removes them a good deal of the time.
Ready to upgrade your internet experience? Call us now at +1 844-349-7575 to explore the best Cox Internet plans for your needs!