Netgear Nighthawk C6900 Review

This modem cum router delivers extremely fast and reliable speeds, making it a favorite among home users. So, what makes it so good, and should you go on and get it?

When I first thought about replacing my rented modem with a high speed device of my own, it never occurred to me that I could replace it with a gateway device that does the work of both a modem and router. After a lengthy chat with a kindly attendant, she pointed out that the Netgear Nighthawk C6900 made an exceptional device, especially where speed and range are concerned. I brought it home with me, and let’s just say it has been one of my best acquisitions.

Netgear Nighthawk C6900 Breakdown and Review

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 WiFi DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Router – (C6900)

• EXTREMELY FAST WiFi—Up to 1.9 Gpbs combined WiFi speed for extreme gaming and streaming
• 1.6GHz combined processor speed boosts performance for streaming & gaming

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If you have used Netgear devices before, you can attest to the fact they are extremely reliable, versatile and practical. The Netgear Nighthawk C6900 lives up to this character, delivering impressive speeds and proving easy to use whenever you need it.

This device’s fast internet transmission speeds are largely attributed to its DOCSIS 3.0 compliance. This standard is one of the fastest currently, providing speeds that are almost eight times faster than the previous DOCSIS 2.0 technology. As an added feature, the Netgear Nighthawk C6900 supports channel bonding, delivering a 24 x 8 channel bonding configuration. This results in 24 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels which bear the capacity to provide you with download speeds that reach an impressive 960Mbps and up to 131Mbps upload speeds.

As a Wi-Fi router, it operates on the 802.11ac standard and delivers up to 1,900Mbps speeds. You will be glad to know that the Netgear Nighthawk C6900 is compatible with all Internet Service Providers including Cox, Comcast, Xfinity and others. However, it does not bear the capacity to support voice bundle services such as AT&T, Verizon and other voice service providers.

On top of acting as your router and modem, this gadget saves you a substantial amount of money. Modems from internet service providers come at a cost, and the truth is, they are nowhere near half as fast as the Netgear Nighthawk C6900. When you get one of your own, you save up on money, close to $120 every year, that would otherwise have ended up with your service provider.

What we liked;

• Supports DOCSIS 3.0 technology
• Supports channel bonding
• Works as a router and modem
• Transmits at really high speeds
• Saves you a good deal of money

What we didn’t like’

• Does not support voice bundle services

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Netgear Nighthawk C6900 Specifications

Features of the Netgear Nighthawk C6900

Design and Build

The Netgear Nighthawk C6900 comes in an all-black outer casing which is made using rigid plastic that is quite strong. At first glance, you will notice that this device features a simple yet futuristic design, and it does not come as a surprise, considering what most Netgear devices look like. With this rigid casing, the device gets good durability even though it is ideally not meant to be moved around. This device has a unique beveled shape that gives sharp edges to its otherwise rectangular form. When set up, it assumes a vertical orientation and is given stability by its flat base and wide footprint.

When it comes to size, the Netgear Nighthawk C6900 presents as a moderately sized device, measuring 9.66 inches high by 8.31 inches long by 1.7 inches deep. You will notice that the front and back panels are quite wide, while the side panels are considerably slender. This allows for easy installation, even in narrow spaces. Most Netgear Nighthawk modems and gateway devices have a signature triangular cutout pattern, and the Netgear Nighthawk C6900 lives up to this characteristic.

The cutouts make for a beautiful look and actually make the router seem somewhat smaller. As an added advantage, these small holes help to keep the device cool at all times. Subsequently, your device will not suffer any form of malware connected to extreme heat during intense activity or during really hot weather.

On the right beveled edge of the Netgear Nighthawk C6900, there are 9 miniature LED indicator lights that stipulate different parameters when the router is on. There is a Power ON/OFF indicator, upstream, downstream, internet connectivity and ethernet connectivity LED indicators.

On the left side panels, there are several ports that are essential for connectivity. There is a coaxial port that acts as a receiver for internet from the public domain, and there are 4 ethernet port that allow for device connectivity from the gateway device. Through these LAN ports, you can connect such devices as your laptop and gaming consoles.

Speed and Performance

The Netgear Nighthawk C6900 is known for its versatility and reliability among other things. As a modem, it runs on the DOCSIS 3.0 standard that allows it to deliver exceptional speeds. For this reason, it makes for an ideal acquisition for homes that use a 400Mbps data plan.

Since it supports channel bonding, it comes with a 24 x 8 configuration which translates to 24 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels. With this feature, the router places itself in a position to dispense up to 960Mbps download speeds and 131Mbpsupload speeds.

The Netgear Nighthawk 6900 has an in-built router which operates on the 802.11ac standard, making it a Wi-Fi 5 router. When it comes to transmission speeds, it boasts a combined throughput of 1,900Mbps. Since this device operates on two bandwidths, it delivers its speeds from a 2.4GHz bandwidth and a 5 GHz bandwidth. The smaller 2.4GHz band delivers 600Mbps speeds while the larger 5GHz band delivers 1,300Mbps.

With these speeds, intense internet activity such as professional gaming on multiple consoles and streaming 4K videos on several devices with be an easy task.  Additionally, this modem cum router does an exceptional job at ensuring you experience high speed transmission throughout the house with no dead zones or lag.

Security and Performance Enhancing features

Netgear as a company ensures that Netgear consumers are accorded the highest cyber security possible. When it comes to the Netgear Nighthawk C6900, users enjoy commercial grade security from WPA/ WPA2 security grade which ensures that your privacy and that of your family stays intact. You will also be able to activate parental controls and manage guest networks from the comfort of your phone via a downloadable mobile app.

Who is the Netgear Nighthawk C6900 meant for?

Since this device is ideally made to be used as a 2-in-1 modem and router, it makes a great device for people who want to avoid the cost of buying and operating two separate devices. It is also great for homes that have many internet dependent devices such as gaming consoles, laptops and desktop computers, mobile phones, tablets, smart TVs and others. Finally, it is great for people that would want to get rid of slow modems from their service providers and the monthly rental fees that come with it.

Are there alternatives to the Netgear Nighthawk C6900?

Yes, there are. the current market has a good number of devices that would make great alternatives or replacements for the Netgear Nighthawk C6900. You can use the Netgear C7000, the ARRIS SURFboard SBG6580 and the ARRIS Touchstone DG3450. They are all gateway devices that act as 2-in-1 modems and routers and they also deliver high speeds for heavy internet use.

Features of alternative gateway devices

Verdict: So, should you buy the Netgear Nighthawk C6900?

Yes, you absolutely should. We love that it combines a router and modem, supports extremely high internet speeds and works to ensure that your whole home is well covered with no dead zones or lag. We also like that it helps you save a substantial amount of money. For these reasons, we highly recommend that you do.

FAQs

1. What processor does the Netgear Nighthawk C6900 use?

The Netgear Nighthawk C6900 uses a powerful 1.6GHz processor for optimal performance.

2. Can the ARRIS Touchstone DG3450 support high speed gaming?

Yes, it can.