Can you have DirecTV and Xfinity internet?

Yes, it is possible to have Xfinity internet and DirecTV. However, this is on condition that you operate them using separate coaxial cables, as this will reduce the chances of signal interference or network breakdowns.

Choosing the best TV service can be challenging when you have so many options to choose from, especially when considering your budget. Every provider will give you something unique in their contract terms, as well as prices and number of channels. In this case, both Xfinity and DirecTV offer different delivery methods, with Xfinity using traditional cable and DirecTV using satellite – but it is possible to run both in your home.

A comparison table between Xfinity and DirecTV

Both platforms have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to monthly pricing, and it always helps to know what to expect before installing both in your house.

Some of the differences between the two are:

 
Xfinity
DirecTV
Service delivery model
Cable
Satellite
Price per month
Between $20 and $80
Between $64.99 and $134.99 for the first year
Installation fees
Professional installation – $89.99

Self-installation kit – $15

Free for the first set-top box, and $99 for extra receivers
Type of installation
Can be self or professional installation
Professional installation only (unless you have technical knowledge)
 

How to install Xfinity and DirecTV to run simultaneously in your home

Installing Xfinity

Once you order Xfinity Internet and specify that you want a self-installation kit, they will send it to you. The kit should contain these items:

  • Coaxial cable
  • Power cable
  • A router/modem combo (xFi wireless gateway)
  • Ethernet cable
  • Prepaid labels and instructions – these will help if you need to return some items
  • Instructions for setup and getting started
  • All Xfinity documents such as terms and conditions

If all these items are available, next is the installation, which you can do through this procedure:

  1. Get the coaxial cable and connect any of its ends to the wall socket. Twist it until it is secure.
  2. Take the other end of the cable and connect it to the coaxial input on your xFi wireless gateway, then twist it until it is secure.
  3. Get the power cable and plug one of its ends in the gateway, then plug its other end into a power outlet.
  4. The Gateway will power on. When it does so, wait for the light indicator for the online connection to turn on, which can take up to 20 minutes.
  5. After it comes on, you can choose one of four methods to activate the service: the xFi mobile app (available for both iOS and Android), your TV prompts, the Xfinity phone activation number (1-855-652-3446), or the Xfinity website activation page.

Installing DirecTV

DirecTV has a wider reach compared to Xfinity, thanks to its satellite delivery – however, this can pose some issues when it comes to installation, unless you have the technical know-how or working alongside their technicians.

If you go the route of self-installation, you will follow these steps:

  1. The location should be a steady and secure area like your roof or the side of the house. The area should also have a southern exposure that is unobstructed to reduce the chances of signal interference.
  2. Mount the mast through using the screws that come with the installation kit while making sure the mast remains plumb. When you get the best position, you will need to tighten the bolts to secure it in place.
  3. Use the screwdriver to secure the satellite dish to the low noise block armature, and then position the dish on the mast. However, this stage does not need you to tighten the dish in place yet because there needs to be some more positioning adjustments.
  4. You will then take the coaxial cable and insert it through the arm into the rear of the dish’s low noise block, and attach this to the coaxial connections on the array, also called the low noise block array.
  5. On the arm’s end, tighten the array’s coaxial connections and ensure they are secure. To prevent sticking out of the coaxial cable, ensure it remains in a snug position when pulled.
  6. Take the other end of the coaxial cable and connect it to the satellite signal meter. You will then position the satellite dish by making axis adjustments, which will ensure you get the best signal quality possible. Keep in mind that the strongest signals are slightly above the horizon, so the satellites are best placed along the equator.
  7. Once you get the strongest signal, tighten the dish until it is secure.
  8. Use the screws in the installation kit to attach the dish’s grounding block. For the best results, the block should be closest to the nearest television, and connect your coax cable.
  9. To protect the unit from lighting, connect the grounding wires from the block to a grounding rod or a metallic cold water pipe. Make the connection from the coax cable to the grounding block, and use cable brackets or cable staples to secure the cable to your house.
  10. Go to a location closest to your TV and drill a small 3/8 hole into the wall, then insert the coaxial cable.
  11. Connect the cable to your DirecTV receiver, and the receiver to your TV. Caulk the hole where you inserted the coax cable to seal it.
  12. Power the receiver and TV, then follow the prompts to activate your service.

Conclusion

While it is possible to have both DirecTV and Xfinity in your house, installing them can be quite a challenging process, especially for a satellite service like DirecTV. If you choose to do so, ensure you have separate coax cables to get the best results.

FAQs

Can I have DirecTV and cable Internet?

Yes – regardless of the providers you choose, you can install both in your home.

Can you have Dish TV and Comcast Internet?

Yes, although you will need different sets of coaxial cables to get the best results. Since they will use similar signals, using different cables will reduce the chances of interference and allow you to experience the best of both providers.

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