Best Modems and Routers for WOW! Internet
Updated
WOW! Internet includes a WiFi modem with its plans, but you can also use your own. Buying your own gear can mean more control over your home network, but the modem has to match your WOW! speed. Here's what to look for, organized by speed tier, using WOW's own compatibility guidelines.
Quick answer: which modem do you need?
| Your WOW! speed | Modem you need | WOW's guidance |
|---|---|---|
| 600 Mbps or less | DOCSIS 3.0 (24x8 or 32x8 channels) | Minimum requirement |
| 1 Gig (1,000 Mbps) | DOCSIS 3.1 | Recommended |
| 1.2 Gig and 2 Gig | DOCSIS 3.1 (32x8) with a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port | Required |
WOW recommends DOCSIS 3.1 for the best experience at any speed. It also no longer allows new DOCSIS 3.0 modems with 4x4 or 8x4 channels, or any DOCSIS 2.0 modems, on its network. A DOCSIS 3.1 modem is the safest buy, and it leaves room to upgrade your speed later.
When you have to use WOW's equipment
- Fiber-to-the-home areas: WOW's optical network terminal or fiber terminal is required. Customer-owned devices aren't permitted.
- WOW! Phone: You'll need a WOW advanced modem (EMTA) to get phone service.
Shopping for WOW! Internet?
Check WOW! availability and compare speeds at your address before you buy equipment.
Tips for choosing a modem
- Match the Ethernet port to your speed. A standard 1 Gbps port generally delivers up to about 940 Mbps to a single wired device. Multi-gig plans need a 2.5 Gbps port.
- Modem only or combo? A standalone modem plus your own router gives you more flexibility. A modem-router combo saves space. Read about modem-router combos.
- Buy from a reputable manufacturer, and confirm the model's DOCSIS version and channel count before checking out.
- Think ahead. WOW notes you may need to upgrade equipment when speeds increase.
Choosing a Wi-Fi router
Your modem brings the internet in, and your router spreads it around the house. For WOW plans:
- Up to 500 Mbps: A good Wi-Fi 6 router handles most homes.
- 1 Gig and up: Look for Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 with a multi-gig WAN port so the router isn't the bottleneck.
- Large or multi-story homes: A mesh system covers dead zones better than a single router. WOW's Whole-Home WiFi add-on provides two eero mesh devices to start, and you can add more.
Own vs. use WOW's: the trade-offs
Using your own: More control and choice of features. However, WOW's technicians and customer support only support WOW-provided equipment, so you'll troubleshoot your device with the manufacturer.
Using WOW's: WOW's WiFi modem is included with its internet plans and is tested on WOW's network. WOW support can help if something goes wrong.
Before buying, check what your plan already includes. Read more about owning vs. renting equipment.
Setting up your modem
WOW offers a free self-install kit, or you can have a technician do it. If you're using your own modem, you'll need to activate it with WOW. Walk through the process in our WOW! self-install guide.
Get the right speed and equipment from day one
Compare WOW! plans and other providers at your address.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my own modem with WOW! Internet?
Yes, on WOW's cable network. WOW recommends a DOCSIS 3.1 modem and requires DOCSIS 3.1 with a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port for its 1.2 Gig and 2 Gig speeds. In fiber-to-the-home areas, WOW's own fiber equipment is required.
Will a DOCSIS 3.0 modem work with WOW!?
DOCSIS 3.0 modems with 24x8 or 32x8 channels meet WOW's minimum for speeds of 600 Mbps or less. WOW doesn't allow new DOCSIS 3.0 4x4 or 8x4 modems, or DOCSIS 2.0 modems, on its network.
Does WOW! support customer-owned modems?
WOW's technicians and customer support only support WOW-provided equipment. If you use your own modem, you handle device troubleshooting with the manufacturer.