CenturyLink C3000A vs. C3000Z – Which one should you get?

Whether you are an amateur or a tech-guru, choosing the right wireless modem for your internet and telecommunications needs is something that can be quite hard considering all the available options in the market. To narrow down your options, we will compare the Actiontec C3000A and Zyxcel C3000Z.

Generally, every modem is designed and built to work with a specific type of internet technology and within a particular speed range. That said, CenturyLink uses different core technologies – be it Fiber or other different DSL technologies – depending on the speed you select and your respective location. Besides that, CenturyLink has an extensive range of compatible high-performing models that feature a built-in wireless router, meaning that you will always be covered in the Wi-Fi department. In addition to that, CenturyLink assigns its modem/router combos based on the internet service needs of its clients, so that all the devices you have seamlessly support all the internet speeds that you are paying for. Read on to get a better understanding of the differences between the CenturyLink C3000A and the CenturyLink C3000Z.

What are the differences between the Century Link C3000A and the CenturyLink C300Z?

CenturyLink C3000A vs. C3000Z – How do they compare?

Speed and Performance

When installed into a sizeable home, the CenturyLink C3000A is able to transmit signal over a range of 820 square feet. It delivers a throughput of 6Gbps, making it one of the most powerful Wi-Fi 6 modems that are CenturyLink certified.

On the other hand, the CenturyLink has a significantly slower theoretical throughput. It registers maximum theoretical speeds of 1.7 Gbps. When it comes to range, however, it covers an area of 820 square feet, just like the CenturyLink C3000A.

That said, we can conclude that the C3000A offers faster internet speeds and a more stable network connection, making it a better router than the CenturyLink C3000Z.

Wi-Fi Specifications

Both wireless modems are designed with the latest advancements in router technology. They have dual band technology so they can transmit 2.4 and 5 GHz signals easily. However, the two CenturyLink modems differ when it comes to their wireless compatibility.

The CenturyLink C3000A supports Wi-Fi 6 and is backwards compatible with other Wi-Fi devices. The CenuryLink C3000Z, on the other hand, supports Wi-Fi 5 and is backwards compatible with other Wi-Fi devices.

You may ask, what does this difference mean? Well, this means that the CenturyLink C3000A has greater data transfer speeds and a better performance in congested settings, compared to the C3000Z.

Ports

Both the C3000A and the C3000Z are fitted with LAN ports and USB ports. For the CenturyLink C3000A, it has 5 connectivity ports. Four of these ports are the Ethernet LAN ports and one of them is a USB 3.0 host port. The CenturyLink C3000Z, on the other hand, has 8 connectivity ports. Based on this comparison feature, the CenturyLink C3000Z is better than the C3000A as it allows you to comfortably connect a wide range of devices.

CenturyLink C3000A vs. C3000Z – A Comparison Overview

CenturyLink C3000A Review

CenturyLink C3000A

• C3000A CenturyLink
• WPA/WPA2 wireless Encryption

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The CenturyLink C3000A is a high-performing dual-band modem designed using the latest technological advancements in the industry. Being a dual-band modem, it seamlessly emits two independent wireless signals at the same time. Because of this simultaneous action, it amounts to a more stable, stronger and a faster internet connection at all times. Along with this, the CenturyLink C30000A is a Wi-Fi 6 modem, meaning that you can enjoy Wi-Fi speeds up to 6 Gbps, which is just enough for seamless 4K streaming, lag-free gaming and a top-tier online experience.

To ensure maximum network security, it is equipped with the WPA and WPA2 technology. This means that no intruders can access your wireless connection without seeking your authorization. Besides that, the CenturyLink C3000A is very user friendly. All you need to do is use the WPS button for quick access to new wireless devices. We cannot forget to mention that this modem is very easy to set up. Simply hook up your phone jack to your modem then set up your account number and use your address to connect to the network.

Pros

• Very easy to install
• Offers a seamless online experience with a strong internet connection
• Fast upload and download speeds compared to other DSL modems and routers
• Very secure network connection

Cons

• Is quite costly

CenturyLink C3000Z Review

ZyXEL C3000Z Modem CenturyLink

• CenuryLink C3000Z
• ZyXEL C3000Z Modem

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Another high-performing dual-band modem capable of exceptionally fast connection speeds is the CenturyLink C3000Z. It is considered one of the most affordable DSL modems for CenturyLink and the most ideal option for anyone working around high-speed plans. It offers 1.7 Gbps over the 5GHz band and up to 450Mbps over the 2.4 GHz band, meaning that your gaming and streaming experience will be as seamless as possible. Additionally, it is able to provide 100 Mbps of downloading speeds on Wi-Fi and up to 200 Mbps download speeds on LAN connectivity.

Along with being a speed junkie, the C3000Z offers excellent coverage. You are bound to get an evenly distributed signal, as long as you live in a sizeable home. Aside from that, it features the WPA and WPA2 security technologies that keep the intruders away. In addition to that, the CenturyLink C3000Z is loaded with Dual SPI and NAT Ethernet firewalls, which are designed to combat malware. You would also be impressed by its TR-069 remote management technology that allows your IPS to quickly troubleshoot and fix any network issues you face almost instantaneously.

Pros

• Reliable internet connection
• Sufficient internet speeds
• Extremely secure network
• Offers Remote Management Technology

Cons

• Router needs multiple starts in one day

Verdict: So, which one is better – CenturyLink C3000A or CenturyLink C3000Z?

When all factors are considered, the Century Link C3000A stands out as the best router in this review since it has better speeds, is equipped with more advanced technology and has a wider coverage. Additionally, it has faster internet speeds and offers a stronger and more stable network connection. Because of all these features, it is certainly the best option for smart homes and small offices.

FAQs

1. Does the CenturyLink C3000A work with an ADSL hookup?

Yes, it works seamlessly with an adsl hookup.

2. Does the CenturyLink C3000Z have parental controls?

Yes, it does. You can log into the modem and restrict internet access hours of the day and limit the number of devices that can access the internet. You also have the chance to block websites and track user activity.