Can I use Netgear modem with CenturyLink?

Currently, CenturyLink uses a wide selection of modems to suit all your network connection needs. The majority of the compatible modems are DSL but you can also find compatible fiber modems if you choose to use fiber optic internet. 

Generally, CenturyLink is one of the top fiber and DSL providers in the US. However, most consumers tend to complain that CenturyLink is making a lot more from them by renting out modems/routers to already-paying customers. Well, at first, renting a modem from CenturyLink is often a good idea and the $15 rental fee isn’t always such a burden within the first year of service. However, once you become a full-time/long-term subscriber of CenturyLink internet, you will start to realize that the rental equipment fees can get quite expensive and can actually dent your wallet if you aren’t too careful. And it gets even exhausting to pay for if you are starting to experience frequent network problems. That said, investing in your own modem/router will definitely save you the hassle. So, can you use a Netgear modem with CenturyLink? 

Yes, you can. The only thing that Netgear modems and routers cannot support is two synched DSL lines -what is popularly known as Bonded DSL. For standard ADSL and VDSL, the Netgear modems work perfectly well in place of the modems that are provided by CenturyLink. 

Is Netgear compatible with CenturyLink internet? 

Yes, Netgear routers and modems work seamlessly with CenturyLink.  One thing you always need to remember is that Netgear modems work perfectly fine in place of the modem and routers provided by CenturyLink, but only for standard ADSL and VDSL (only on newer Netgear Nighthawk devices). The only thing you may need to be cautious about is Netgear support. Typically, Netgear support is virtually non-existent, even if you are paying a handsome amount for it.

Although most Netgear modems and routers are compatible with CenturyLink internet, you should always go the extra mile to check through your ISP’s website or call their customer service to get a list of compatible Netgear modems and routers. Also, the user manual and description of a particular modem often includes a list of service providers that it works with.

How do I setup my Netgear router for CenturyLink? 

Whenever any CenturyLink customer wants to purchase their own modem or router, they prefer to look into the different Netgear devices that exist. This is mostly because the Netgear network devices work very well with the CenturyLink DSL connection. But the real question here is: how do you setup your Netgear router for CenturyLink? Here are some of the steps you need to follow to set up a Netgear router with a CenturyLink internet connection.

Step One: The plugging process

The first thing you need to do is plug in one end of the Ethernet cable from the LAN port on your Netgear modem/router and attach the other end into the port on your laptop or computer.

Step Two: The Configuration process

Here, you need to open your PC browser and go to 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 to start the configuration of your Netgear modem. If the IP address doesn’t work, the next thing you need to do is go to http://www.routerlogin.net, which is another way of configuring your router.

Once redirected to the login page, key in the username and password of your router in the space provided.  The default username for most Netgear modems/routers is ‘admin’ and the password is ‘password’.

Step Three: The Connection process

At this point, your modem/router should automatically try to pick up your connection settings. However, there are times when it may struggle to find the settings. In this case, you need to do it manually. Here’s how:

• Go to the Advanced Tab > Setup > Internet Setup.
• Where you are asked whether your internet connection requires a login, click on the ‘No’ tab.
• On the IP address tab, click the ‘get dynamically from ISP’ option. As for the domain name server address, you can always use any public DNS servers (most recommended open DNS servers are 208.67.220.220 and 208.67.220.220)
• After doing that, enable ‘NAT’ then click on ‘Use Default Address and Save your Settings’ on the Router MAC address option.
• Once done, go to the ‘Advanced Tab> Setup > ADSL Settings’ then select the ‘LLC-BASED’ option for the multiplexing method.
• As for the VPI, choose ‘8’ and for the VCI, choose ‘35’. Lastly, select ‘auto’ for the DSL mode. Once done, save the settings and you are good to go.

Is Netgear Nighthawk AX6 compatible with CenturyLink? 

Yes, it is. The Netgear Nighthawk AX6 is one of the high-performing Netgear modems that are compatible with CenturyLink internet services.

This dual-band wireless router with maximum throughput speeds of 5400 Mbps supports the 802.11 ax Wi-Fi standard. It is designed to use the OFDMA technology to communicate with several connected devices simultaneously across the 5GHz and 2.4 GHz bands. With this high-performing router, you get as much bandwidth as you need to video chat, play demanding online games and for streaming 4K vidoes.

It features 4 high-performance antennas that are integrated with the beamforming technology that helps ensure strong connections and long range. This simply means that it is the best router for medium to large homes with CenturyLink internet. In addition to that, this router is very easy to set up through the Nighthawk mobile app and you get the freedom to issue voice commands to the router through Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

The table below outlines the features of the Netgear Nighthawk AX6.

Final Thoughts

Most cable modems and modem/routers that are certified are tested by a specific ISP and are guaranteed to work on the ISP networks. As mentioned earlier, the best way to know whether any modem is compatible with your ISP is to call them or check through their website.

FAQs

1. Is the Netgear Nighthawk AX6 good for gamers?

Yes, it is. The Netgear Nighthawk AX6 is a dual-band router with maximum throughput speeds of 5400 Mbps, meaning that it is a great option for online gaming.

2. Is it better to use ISP modem?

No. Purchasing your own modem will save you a lot more money in the long run, especially if you have subscribed to one of the higher-speed internet packages.