Netgear CM400 Review

The Netgear CM400 promises reliable transmission as well as the opportunity to save up on your coinage in the long haul. It uses some of the most recent technology to ensure your home receives the fastest internet transmission all year round.

A couple years back, I decided to get my own modem as a way of reducing my annual costs in renting a modem from my internet service provider. A few weeks ago, I decided to upgrade and get a router that supported DOCSIS 3.0. Of course, there were many modems to choose from, but being a Netgear fan, I felt naturally inclined to go with one of theirs. I got the Netgear CM400, and boy was I glad! This router has many impressive features that make it an exceptional device for home connection, but as with any other piece of technological equipment, the Netgear CM400 has its own drawbacks.

Netgear CM400 Review and Breakdown

NETGEAR Cable Modem CM400 - Compatible with all Cable Providers including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox | For Cable Plans Up to 100 Mbps | DOCSIS 3.0, Black, 8x4 Cable Modem (CM400)

• COMPATIBLE WITH ALL MAJOR CABLE INTERNET PROVIDERS: Including certification by Xfinity by Comcast, COX,...
• SAVE MONTHLY RENTAL FEES: Model CM400 replaces your cable modem saving you up to $168/yr in equipment...

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The Netgear CM400 is a device that is designed to fully function as a modem that harnesses internet from the public domain, then distributes it to your main router. Unlike a good number of devices that combine a modem and router, this particular one only functions as a modem. Netgear designed it to be able to handle speeds that average 340Mbps upload and download speeds, an indication that this modem would be an ideal acquisition if you have a data plan within this range.

This modem bears the capacity to support the DOCSIS 3.0 standard which facilitates fast speeds and reliability. With this standard, modems are able to achieve speeds that are at least 8 times faster than their predecessors that ideally used the DOCSIS 2.0 standard. Also, users enjoy high speed gaming, much faster downloads and seamless streaming on multiple devices. Even though the Netgear CM400 uses the DOCSIS 3.0, it is still backward compatible with the DOCSIS 2.0.

Being a versatile device is of absolute importance, and the Netgear CM400does not disappoint in this regard. It is a CableLabs certified modem and has the capacity to work with many ISPs such as Comcast, Xfinity, Spectrum, Time Warner Cable and others. However, it cannot support the likes of AT&T and other voice bundle services.

When it comes to connectivity, the Netgear CM400 receives signals via a built in WAN port or Coaxial port, and it distributes it through a designated WAN/LAN port to your devices such as a computer. This LAN port is made to support Gigabit ethernet transmissions seamlessly. Interestingly, this device provides 8 x 4 channel bonding which allows you to have 8 upstream channels and 4 downstream channels, a characteristic that results in much higher speeds of transmission.

What we liked;

• Has an incredibly unique build
• Made for high speed data transfer
• Compatible with many Internet Service Providers
• Supports the DOCSIS 3.0 standard
• Has 8 upstream channels and 4 downstream channels

 What we did not like;

• Does not work as a 2-in-1 modem and router
• Comes with only one LAN port for Gigabit ethernet connections

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Netgear CM400 Specifications

Netgear CM400 Modem Features

Design and Build

The Netgear CM400 combines simplicity and sophistication, creating a beautiful look that would blend in with just about any form of home décor. Size wise, it is an average device, measuring 5.8 x 3.8 x 1.8 inches. The fact that it assumes a vertical orientation makes it easy to install, even in areas where space is tight. It works as a plug-in device and is fitted with a power and coaxial cable port for this purpose. On the outside, the modem bears a shiny hard plastic casing, and even though it is not ideally made to be moved around, this plastic gives it a good deal of durability.

Unlike most other Netgear modems that have a mesh-like outer casing, this one is covered by an all-solid shell which goes a long way in preventing dust from penetrating through. However, you will notice small holes lined all around the edges, and they prove efficient in keeping the modem cool at all times. This way, you can be certain that your modem will not be damaged by extreme heat, especially during extremely hot conditions.

For connections, the Netgear CM400 comes with one LAN port through which you can connect devices you use on a regular basis. These devices could include your desktop and laptop computers, gaming consoles and even smart TVs. The only drawback is that you can only connect one device at a time since there is but one LAN port. On the side panel of the modem are 5 indicator lights that show Power ON/OFF, Down Stream, Upstream, Internet and Ethernet connectivity.

Speed and Performance

The Netgear CM400 is built to facilitate good internet speeds. If you have a data plan that is below 100Mbps, this modem will prove practical for you. We really like that this modem connects to many service providers and is not limited with the types of routers with which it can work. This router supports the DOCSIS 3.0 technology which translates to speeds that are 8 times faster than the DOCSIS 2.0 technology.

When used for home devices, it delivers a maximum data transfer rate of 100Mbps and a maximum downstream rate of 131Mbps which is quite decent. It is a dual band device that operates on the 2.4GHz and 5GHz band frequencies. This makes it extremely efficient when working with other routers since it optimizes on the best speeds. On top of this, the Netgear CM400 offers 8 x 4 channel bonding which results in better speeds and reliability. You will be able to enjoy high speed gaming, video streaming across multiple devices and other activity that you would previously have not accomplished on your inferior rented modem.

Have in mind, however, that the speeds you experience are dictated by your service provider. Some service providers provide better speeds than others dependingon the selected data plan.

 Network Security

Netgear devices come with a security app called the NETGEAR Armor. This app ensures that all your information and your modem stay safe from all cyber threats. With the Netgear CM400, all channels are kept secure even during intense activity.

Setup and Configuration

With the Netgear CM400, setup is a breeze. All you have to do is plug it in to the power source to turn it on. Then proceed to key in its default username and password after which it connects to the Wi-Fi network in your home. Have in mind that this device does not have an ON/OFF button, and it automatically switches on when plugged into the power source.

Who is it best suited for?

If you are looking to upgrade the Wi-Fi speeds in your home and save a good deal of money at the same time, this device is for you. It guarantees better performance than most (if not all) rented modems available today. You can also upgrade your data plan in case you are using one that does not support high speeds.

Are there alternatives to the Netgear CM400?

Yes, some of the best alternatives for this modem are the Netgear Nighthawk C7000, Motorola MB8600 and the Netgear CM600. They are also compatible with most Internet Service Providers and router models.

Features of alternative cable modems

Verdict: So, would I recommend the Netgear CM400?

I most definitely would. It sets itself apart as a reliable cable modem for great home coverage, and the good thing about it is that it is compatible with most service providers and all types of routers. With this modem, you will upgrade your speeds to a new level.

FAQs

1. Does the Netgear CM600 have an inbuilt router?

No, it does not. It is only a cable modem.

2. Do I need to install the Motorola MB8600 on a wall?

Not necessarily. It comes with a large foot print that gives it steady balance when on a flat surface.