A Guide to Cincinnati Bell Compatible Modems and Routers
Whether you’re looking for a new modem or planning to upgrade your current one, you need to consider things like compatibility with your internet service provider (ISP). Choosing the best modem or router also depends on the size of your property, what you intend to use the internet for, and how long you expect to have the service.
Cincinnati Bell currently allows a few modems and routers to work with their network – all of which may be difficult to get in retail which won’t eliminate the rental fee from your monthly bill. However, we’ve put together a guide to provide the top modems and routers that are compatible with Cincinnati Bell internet plans.
Best modem/router combos for Cincinnati Bell
ZyXEL 3415
The ZyXEL 3415 Gateway is a 5GHz and 2.4GHz wireless and Ethernet gateway that is compatible with Cincinnati Bell internet. The 2.4GHz band provides wireless speeds of about 150Mbps and the 5GHz band offers wireless speeds of up to 900Mbps. The router is relatively easy to use with a simple web interface and features a built-in router, Wi-Fi, and port switch that makes it easy to share your internet connection anywhere in your home without requiring a second device.
It also includes a built-in setup wizard as well as an auto-detect capability to make the setup process simple by performing most of the configuration automatically. For wireless security, the ZyXEL 3415 supports all the existing models of encryption, including WPA, WPA2, and WEP.
Google Wi-Fi system
The Google Wi-Fi system, also known as a point, is available to internet customers using Cincinnati Bell internet. It comes as a single unit or as a three-unit kit and the Google Wi-Fi points work together to create a mesh network that provides strong coverage in every room of your house. It can be set up as a single router, while the others can extend the wired signal wirelessly. The three units are powered through a USB-C.
Each unit is powered by a 710MHz ARM-based quad-core processor with 4GB of storage space and 512MB RAM. Google Wi-Fi uses automatic bandwidth steering, therefore, devices are automatically switched between the 2.4 and 5GHz frequencies depending on the bandwidth available, signal strength, and other filters. It also uses client steering, meaning that devices can automatically be assigned to the best nearby node.
Setup is easy by using a free iOS or Android app which allows you to configure your network by scanning the QR codes on the Wi-Fi point connected to your gateway or modem. The app has also included an internet speed test that measures the health of your internet connection.
ZyXEL 4381
The ZyXEL 4381 offers deployment flexibility and reliability with VDSL2 and ADSL2+ fallback as well as PTM/ATM mode support. It can also be used for Ethernet WAN as in the case with Cincinnati Bell’s internet connection. Additionally, it also includes two wireless bands, 2.4GHz and 5GHz, which can be configured separately.
Designed for fiber deployments, the ZyXEL 4381 features a dedicated gigabit Ethernet WAN port with non-blocking routine performance. This allows customers to use a single Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) for both fiber and copper networks as well as planned migrations. When deployed in a copper network, the port can serve as a fifth LAN port. The built-in MoCA1.1 adapter offers instant connection with the set units and other coax-enabled devices in your home.
With full IPv4/IPv6 Dual Stack, IPv4 routing, and IPv6 Rapid Deployment, the ZyXel 4381 offers the performance you need in any network and for any users migrating from IPv4 to IPv6.
ZyXEL 660
The ZyXEL660 features a 2.4GHz wireless and ADSL2+ gateway to provide a consistent connection to your home. Its design is basic, but very functional. The router stands vertically on a base and includes four LAN ports with an ADSL2+ modem. The 802.11n technology on this unit provides enough speed and coverage for the average household and the connection is stable and reliable for high-speed data and multimedia delivery up to 300Mbps.
With Wi-Fi Protection Setup (WPS), the unit will automatically configure a wireless network with a network named (SSID) and provide WPA data authentication and encryption. It also features a robust stateful packet inspection (SPI), and DDoS features that provide adequate protection against network breaches and other harmful threats.
ARRIS Surfboard SB6183
Built upon the success of the SB6141 and SB6121, the ARRIS Surfboard SB6183 cable modem harnesses the power of DOCSIS 3.0 technology to bond up to 16 download and 4 upload channels. It also features a 1 Gigabit Ethernet port to connect to a Wi-Fi router or other device.
It’s compatible with major internet providers including Cincinnati Bell. It delivers well for cable internet speed plans of up to 400Mbps. This makes streaming HD video, shopping, gaming, working, video conferencing, downloading, and peer-to-peer networking apps faster and more efficient.
Setup is easy using the SURFboard Central App. Simply follow the in-app instructions to get your modem up and running.
MOTOROLA MB7621
The Motorola MB7621 is recommended for cable internet speeds of up to 1000Mbps, or twenty times faster than DOCSIS 2.0. The Full-Band Capture digital tuners ensure you get a faster and more reliable connection. The DOCSIS 3.0 technology allows the device to bond up to 24 downstream channels for 1000Mbps and 8 upstream channels for speeds of up to 246Mbps. Ultimately, upload and download speeds depend on the speeds of your Cincinnati Bell service.
The device also features a 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN port for a modem that allows connection of a router, game station, HDTV, and other Ethernet-enabled devices. It’s works well with Whole Home Wi-Fi or Mesh networks such as Google Wi-Fi, eero, and Orbi.
It supports IPv4 and IPv6, so you can be sure of a powerful and flexible network. Seamlessly pair the device with any Wi-Fi router and connect all your wireless devices instantly.
ARRIS SURFboard SB8300
As a DOCSIS 3.1 modem – the newest technology being offered by cable providers, the SURFboard SB8300 provides enough power for Wi-Fi speeds of up to 2Gbps with wired download speeds of up to 4Gbps. It houses three products in one including AC2350 Dual-band Wi-Fi, DOCSIS 3.1 modem, and a 4-port Gigabit router.
It’s capable of bonding up to 32 downloads and 8 upload channels or 2 x 2 OFDM DOCSIS 3.1 channels – providing increased bandwidth for gigabit-speed capability. The four 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports provide fast wired networking for connecting devices such as gaming consoles, smart TVs, and more. It’s compatible with major cable internet providers including Cincinnati Bell.
Setup and manage your network easily with the SURFboard Manager app and get your modem up and running quickly.
MOTOROLA MG7540
The Motorola MG7540 combines a 16 x 4 DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with an AC1600 Dual Band Wi-Fi Gigabit router to offer 16 downstream channels for speeds of up to 686Mbps and 4 upstream channels for speeds of up to 123Mbps. It provides the range, wireless speeds, and network connection needed for streaming in HD and video conferencing at home or in the office.
The four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports provide enough wired connections for HDTVs, computers, streaming devices, gaming consoles, and other Ethernet-enabled devices. AnyBeam beamforming available at both 2.4 and 5GHz focuses the signal on your wireless devices to allow for better performance and range. Unlike most routers, the MG7540 router can work on Wi-Fi DFS frequencies, meaning it’s less vulnerable to any form of Wi-Fi interference. Both DFS and AnyBeam improve wireless performance to provide fast, reliable, and robust connections with greater range.
With high speed, compatibility with major cable providers, and IPv4 and IPv6 networking support, the MG7540 offers a reliable wireless connection to all your devices from a single interface.
NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000
The NETGEAR C7000 Dual-Band cable modem and Wi-Fi router features DOCSIS 3.0 technology that provides fast Wi-Fi performance. With the C7000, you get broad wireless coverage (up to 1800 square feet) and 30 devices connected with AC1900 offering speeds of up to 1900Mbps – ideal for streaming and gaming.
It also features a built-in 24 x 8 cable channel bonding modem that provides fast download speeds, even during peak hours. You also get versatile connections with the 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports in addition to the 2 USB ports that further boost your wired connection capabilities. The router also comes with other features such as beamforming that directs Wi-Fi signal to your devices for an even stronger connection.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the Cincinnati Bell wireless gateway?
All Cincinnati Bell internet users have access to the Google Wi-Fi gateway, also called a puck or point. The gateway gives an option of using whole-home Wi-Fi, allowing users to stream, upload, and download data or information with no interruption.
Can I use my own modem or router with Cincinnati Bell?
If you’re using fiber, yes. You simply need to have an Ethernet plug in your house. Just plug your Wi-Fi router in and everything will play out without needing any setup, activation, or even support.
Will I get a modem if I opt to use Cincinnati Bell Fioptics?
In addition to internet equipment such as boosters, WAP, MoCa, and more, you will also receive a modem from Cincinnati Bell depending on the plan of service you want to use. Additionally, you will get the wireless gateway, Ethernet, power cord, and phone cables that you’ll need for installation.
*Pricing varies by location and availability. Speeds may vary. All prices subject to change; for current pricing and availability visit our internet service page. Prices as of 5/20/22.
Disclosure | Updater articles are based on our own data and research, independent from partner relationships. We are not compensated by partners for information and opinions presented here. Our Editorial Terms of Service can be found here.
Internet and TV tips
Switching providers and don’t know where to start? We can help.
