Best CenturyLink-Compatible Modems
CenturyLink is one of the ISPs that offers high-speed internet to its clients, but unlike the competition, CenturyLink makes use of their own proprietary technology, and this means that the modem you have in your home has to be compatible with their systems. Failure to find the right modem means that you won’t be able to enjoy the best kind of high-speed internet connectivity you know you need.
Now, in your search for the best modems compatible with the CenturyLink systems, you will come across numerous modems, all promising compatibility and the best high-speed connectivity. But you need to remember that there is more than a brand says a modem can do. You need to look at its features and component technologies to ensure that you are getting the best deal.
So, which are the best CenturyLink-Compatible modems on the market today?
Table of Contents
Best CenturyLink-Compatible Modems – Comparison Table
Best CenturyLink-Compatible Modems |
Best for |
Features |
Price |
CenturyLink Prism TV Technicolor C2100T |
Best Overall CenturyLink Modem
|
VDSL2
Boned ADSL2+ 4 Ethernet Gigabit ports 200Mbps/100Mbps Download and upload speeds |
|
MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2+ Modem |
Best Modem for Non-Bonded Systems |
Combo modem/router
Non-bonded ADSL2+/VDSL2 |
|
3ZyXEL C3000Z Modem CenturyLink |
Best Modem by CenturyLink |
Vectoring modem
802.11n/ac Dual-band CBRAS |
|
Actiontec C3000A |
Best High-Speed Modem |
Bonded VDSL2
Bonded ADSL2+ ADSL technologies |
|
Actiontec C1900A |
Best Modem for Flexibility |
Works with most DSL Systems |
Reviews of the Best CenturyLink-Compatible Modems
-
CenturyLink Prism TV Technicolor C2100T – Best Overall CenturyLink Modem
- Centurylink compatible DSL Telephony Wireless N Modem
- High-Speed Internet Access with Voice Over IP (VoIP) Compatible Service
This CenturyLink Prism TV Technicolor C2100T is one of the best modem-router combos o the market, and if you are looking for a complete modem-router setup for your home, you might like this DSL-telephony-compatible modem system.
The modem offers super-high-speed internet access with all your VoIP-compatible services. It comes with an integrated VDSL2 modem system and also the bonded ADSL2+ system, both designed to ensure seamless internet access.
The four 4E LAN ports will allow you to easily and simultaneously connect a number of devices at the same time. The power cord and the Ethernet cable enhance its use. The dedicated Gigabit Ethernet system enhances the flexibility of the modem-router system with the WAN/LAN port system and the DSL WAN sensing, which allow for the use of this device in the fiber-based and the mixed DSL networks.
The other features that stand out from this modem are its future-proof gateway system, which allows for the bonded VDSL2 connectivity and VoIP functions, specifically for use in residential space.
Pros
- Efficient internet connectivity
- Allows easy addition of another router
- Easy setup and use
- Works with CenturyLink’s Bonded ADSL2 system
- High-speed connectivity
- CenturyLink-compatible
- Dual-band wireless system
- High download and upload speeds of 200Mbps and 100Mbps, respectively
- 5GHz band works well for areas with a lot of interference
Cons
- The performance could be better
-
MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2+ Modem – Best Modem for Non-Bonded Systems
- IMPORTANT: BE SURE TO CONTACT YOUR SERVICE PROVIDER BEFORE purchasing this product. MODEL MD1600 DOES NOT...
- MD1600 IS A GREAT CHOICE for many non-bonded/non-vectoring ADSL AND VDSL SERVICES FROM FRONTIER,...
Designed for use with non-bonded, as well as the non-vectoring DSL systems, this CenturyLink-compatible modem is one of the best ADSL2+, VDSL2 modems on the market today. It’s a combo modem-router system, but since it doesn’t work with the bonded VSDL and ADSL systems, it might be a great idea to first check with your ISP before you make the purchase.
The built-in router features a high-speed AC1600 (1600Mbps) wireless system, 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, WPA/WPA2 wireless security, a firewall, as well as an IPv4 and an IPv6 system. You might also like that this modem-router combo comes with a VPN system that enhances your network’s security. The USB 2.0 port allows for fast file transfers. Speaking of speed, the modem delivers high internet speeds of up to 100Mbps, although the speed will vary depending on the actual speed of your ISPs ADSL or VDSL system.
It’s easy to set up, easy to use, and the combined setup saves you a lot of space and setup time.
Pros
- It works with RCNs
- Works with frontier DSL seamlessly
- High internet speeds with a data transfer rate of 100Mbps
- 4 Ethernet Gigabit ports
- Easy setup and use
- Works well with CenturyLink
- Great customer services from the company
Cons
- As a DSL modem-router system, this device won’t work on the DOCSIS Cable Network
- Only 2.4GHz band supported
-
ZyXEL C3000Z Modem CenturyLink – Best Modem by CenturyLink
- CenuryLink C3000Z
- ZyXEL C3000Z Modem
This CenturyLink Zyxel modem boasts an easy setup, and it might be exactly what you need if you are looking for a WiFi compatible and a secure modem with some of the most reliable and high-performance features. It runs on the IPv6 system, it’s a dual-band modem, features CBRAS, it a vectoring modem, and it runs on the 802.11n and the 802.11ac wireless protocols.
Note that like the other devices reviewed above, this CenturyLink Zyxel device is a combo modem-router, which means that you don’t have to search for a router once you have the modem.
You might also like it because of the compatible DSL technologies, specifically, the bonded VDSL2 and GPON. These technologies ensure high internet speeds.
Pros
- Ideal modem-router combo for static IPs
- Runs on 802.11b and the advanced 802.11ac wireless protocols, hence high internet speeds
- CBRAS connection support
- Faster WiFi compared to most of the DSL routers and modems
- Supports download speeds of up to 80Mbps
- It’s affordable
Cons
- The wireless internet speed is only fast when using DSL technology
-
Actiontec C3000A – Best High-Speed Modem
- C3000A CenturyLink
- WPA/WPA2 wireless Encryption
At the end of the day, the one feature that we all look out for in modems is the speed of the device, besides its compatibility with CenturyLink and DSL technology. It’s one of the fastest modems that are compatible with CenturyLink, and the speed and performance of the modem are enhanced by bonded VDSL2 and bonded ADSL2+, as well as ADSL technologies.
This modem runs on the advanced 802.11ac wireless protocol, a technology that expands the overall reach of your modem’s 5.0GHz frequency. Thanks to the wireless setup, the wireless range of this modem is 820 feet.
Although this modem is not the cheapest modem on the market, the steadiness and the reliable high internet speeds make this one of the best options for anyone looking for more performance from their devices.
Pros
- Compatible with all DSL types
- Faster than most wireless modems on the market
- Large range
- Dual-band system
- Efficient 5GHz band
- Bonded ADSL2+ and VDSL2
- Future-proof
- It works with ADSL hook-ups
Cons
- It’s expensive
-
Actiontec C1900A – Best Modem for Flexibility
- Compatible with CenturyLink Service
- Modem & WiFi Router Combo Gateway - No Extra Equipment Needed!
If you are looking for a flexible modem for your home, but you are not ready to spend a lot on the modem, you might like this CenturyLink-compatible modem. This modem will also work with your DSL technologies for CenturyLink while allowing you to enjoy a great deal of flexibility.
Like the Zyxel modems, this Actiontec modem is pretty fast as it’s designed to support fast internet speeds. Its speed is, however, lower than that of the Actiontec 3000A, but its speed is good enough. It’s also a good option of modem for you if you are planning to scale down on your modem and internet bills.
Pros
- It’s compatible with most DSL systems
- It’s faster than most other DSL WiFi modem/router systems
- Great flexibility
Cons
- The speed could be faster
Buying Guide for the Best CenturyLink-Compatible Modem
When we talk about a CenturyLink-compatible modem, we are talking about the equipment you need to access/ bring internet service into your home. This happens via wired connections, meaning that you must plug in your computer into your modem directly to access the internet. Basically, the modem is what links your ISP to your home internet, and the only way for you to make sure that you enjoy the best internet access/ connectivity in your home is by investing in a good modem.
What then do you need to look out for in that CenturyLink-Compatible modem?
Features/ Specifications of the Modem
DSL Technology
While there are various generations of DSL technology, each upcoming DSL technology/ system is faster than the previous version of DSL. At the same time, the local DSL tech might not have the fastest speeds, which means that the decision to buy a modem running on the latest DSL technology will be dependent on your ISP’s system. In this case, you need to talk to your CenturyLink representative before you buy the modem with the best DSL technology.
That said, you need to know the DSL systems on the market allow you to enjoy varied internet speeds.
The ADSL, for example, allows you to enjoy high speeds of up to 7Mbps, ADSL2+ reaches speeds of 20Mbps, Bonded ADSL2+ up to 25Mbps, VDSL2 is fast at 80Mbps, Bonded VDSL2 offers high speeds of up to 100Mbps, while GPON reaches a high speed of 1Gpbs.
Type of internet connection
The first thing you need to consider is the design of the modem, specifically the type of connection offered by the modem. Here, you will come across things like ADSL, ADSL2+, Bonded Internet, and GPON. We’ll look at these connections briefly below.
ADSL/ ADSL2+
ADSL refers to the Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. The DSL lines are designed to deliver internet on specific frequencies that are not used by or for voice calls. As a result, the ADSL lines are capable of delivering internet download speeds up to 8Mbps. Their upload speeds are much lower, though – typically below 1Mbps. But to ensure that you access higher download speeds, modern modems make use of the advanced ADSL2+ system, which is faster and allows high download speeds of up to 24Mpbs.
VDSL/ VDSL2
VDSL or Very-High-Bit-Rate Digital Subscriber line refers to the internet connection speeds that reach super high speeds of up to 50Mbps and 100Mbps, respectively (VDSL and VDSL2). Thanks to these high speeds, you can use the modem when streaming videos in HD. VDSL2 is a more advanced system, and it makes use of vectoring technology, which reduces interference, hence higher-quality internet connections.
Bonded Internet
Bonded internet is used by modem, and it refers to a type of DSL internet line that works for ADSL and VDSL internet lines. It’s also called the channel bonded broadband, and it features twisting copper lines that increase the bandwidth and the range coverage for the DSL network.
GPON
Also known as the Gigabit Passive Optical Network. It refers to the fiber optic type of internet connection designed to allow for high internet stability at high speeds and over large distances. It’s better than the copper connections, and GPON systems boast maximum download speeds of up to 2,000Mbps.
Note that CenturyLink makes use of all these DSL broadband networks, which means that when you are buying a new modem, you need to make sure that it’s connected to the best DSL network for your neighborhood.
The DSL network in your neighborhood is an important factor when it comes to determining the compatibility of your modem. You might want to confirm the ISPs DSL details to ensure 100% modem compatibility.
Usage and Number of Connected Devices
While the number of devices you have in your home will often determine the type of modem you settle for, we recommend buying a modem that comes with extra Ethernet ports for wired connections. Relying on the USB port connection is not the most reliable approach to pick, and you may be forced to buy a different modem after some months. The Ethernet connections give you an extra layer of flexibility, and you won’t have to worry about the performance of your modem when you have more devices connected to your home network.
Wireless technology capabilities
For a modem that offers the best high-speed internet connection speed and overall reliable performance, you might want to invest in a dual-band modem or even one that runs on a tri-ban system. A high-speed modem (modem-router combo) will be based on a WiFi 5 or a WiFi 6 system, offering higher internet speed connectivity via an Ethernet system.
Remote Capabilities
One thing you must look out for when buying a CenturyLink-Compatible modem is its remote connection capability. You need to make sure that the modem selected allows for connection from multiple sources of high-speed internet traffic. This is an important consideration when it comes to things like HD streaming, remote video conferencing, online gaming, and other high-speed reliant activities. Note that the only way for you to enjoy the best internet connection from CenturyLink is by opting for a CBRAS or a CenturyLink Broadband Remote Access Server Compatible modem.
Internet Speeds
Overall, the internet speeds from your modem will depend on the internet package you subscribe to. But this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t look at the peak speeds that the modem is capable of offering. The speed is determined by the Gigabit ports of the modem. While some modems offer Gigabit speeds, others offer high speeds, but you cannot enjoy anything above 100Mbps. To enjoy Gigabit speeds, first, make sure that the modem is set up to offer Gigabit speeds. You also need to buy a modem with at least 4 Ethernet ports – at least one to connect to the modem and the rest to connect to your devices, particularly the ones that require high-speed internet performance.
Modem Technologies/ Specs
The best cable modems feature two important technologies – Channel Bonding and DOCSIS Standards.
DOCSIS stands for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification, and it’s the technology or standard that determines how fast information travels to your home network from your ISP and back. The current DOCSIS standards for you to look for in a modem are DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1.
DOCSIS 3.0 is the most common modem standard today, and it offers a maximum of 32 channels all running at once, at high download speeds exceeding 1Gbps at 1216Mbps. The newest highest speed modems will, however, run on the DOCSIS 3.1 standard. The DOCSIS 3.1 modems are capable of high download speeds of up to 10Gbps and upload speeds of up to 1Gbps. The DOCSIS 3.1 modems are future-proof and backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 systems.
Channel Bonding
The other important consideration you need to keep in mind is channel bonding. It refers to how information flows between your cable ISP and your home/office network. It combines multiple channels so that you have a system that allows more information passing through at the same time. Channel bonding appears as 16×4, 32×8, 24×8, etc. These numbers represent the number of channels for downloads versus the channels for uploads. A 32X8 channel bonded system has 32 download channels and 8 upload channels.
That said, it’s important to note that the maximum internet speeds you will be able to enjoy from the modem purchased pretty much depend on the service you’ve subscribed to. You cannot access gigabit speeds is the peak speed from the ISP is 300Mbps.
FAQs
Do I have to use a CenturyLink Modem/ Router?
No. However, you need to make sure that the router you choose is compatible with the CenturyLink Service for the best internet experience. Choose one of the modems reviewed above for the best CenturyLink connectivity.
What is the difference between CenturyLink DSL and CenturyLink Fiber?
While routers are designed to use both DSL and Fiber, these two systems are completely different from each other. The Fiber system refers to the system that makes use of the underground fiber-optic cables running to your home via the ONT box (used in place of the ONT box), and the router is connected via the ONT box directly. Thanks to the setup of the fiber optic system, pretty much all routers are compatible with these fiber systems.
On the other hand, you have the DSL internet, which makes use of telephone lines for internet coverage. Given the telephone line setup, you must have a modem to be able to make that connection to CenturyLink. The router then connects to the modem, emitting WiFi throughout the network. The modem-router combo also uses the DSL system.
In between the DSL and the fiber system, you have the Transparent Bridging Mode, a system that has been set up because there are limited router-modem combos designed for the DSL systems. Because of the limitation, you need to make use of the CenturyLink modem/router system as the gateway system to third-party routers for the desired high WiFi speeds. This bridging is made possible by the Transparent Bridging Mode.
What does an N/A Modem Mean?
Essentially, an N/A modem means that the modem you are looking at hasn’t been tested, which means that it hasn’t passed the testing on specific CenturyLink technologies. Modems that have been tested and approved by CenturyLink will be marked tested or approved.
Conclusion
The modems reviewed above are the best of CenturyLink-Compatible modems. They are reliable and made to ensure the best internet connection. The speed of the modems will vary depending on the DSL system incorporated into the modem.