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Suddenlink Router Options Explained

Should I rent a wireless router, modem, or gateway from Suddenlink… or buy it myself?

Wireless Router: Renting vs. Buying

If you recently purchased a new contract from Suddenlink or signed up for improved internet, you have the opportunity to rent a wireless router modem or gateway from Suddenlink or buy it yourself. 

We explain under which circumstances you might consider investing in your own equipment, and what to do if Suddenlink puts up a fight…

I’m signed up for Suddenlink service, what equipment do I need? Do I need a router? A modem?

Suddenlink internet requires a modem and router. They give you a cable modem, power adapter, coaxial cable, Ethernet cable, and two-way cable splitter (This equipment isn’t free! See below.)

What’s the difference between a router and a modem? Do I need both? What is a wireless gateway?

Yes, you do need both a router and a modem. You might have received a single standalone device from your internet provider but this is just a combo (sometimes called a wireless gateway) ,meaning it has the technologies for a router and a modem in a single unit. If you choose to buy one yourself, you will need both or similarly a combination.

Can I rent a router/modem from Suddenlink?

Yes, you can rent the equipment from your internet provider. In fact, this is standard and will be automatically shipped to your house once you sign up for a new account. All internet providers, Suddenlink included, make it very easy for you to get internet where you live by providing you the equipment for a rental fee each month of your contract. 

What is the typical cost to rent a router/modem from Suddenlink?

The monthly rental fee for the equipment is $10 per month.

What other options do I have? 

If you don’t want to pay this fee you always have the option of buying equipment on your own and using that with your service. Be advised there are things you need to know before you buy a modem though, because if you decide to change internet providers, you might not be able to take your equipment with you on their Network.

Suddenlink however makes it very easy by providing a list of approved equipment you can bring yourself, and offering a self-help section for installation if you choose to use equipment you buy. There are also steps you have to follow for returning the equipment that Suddenlink sent to you (so you don’t still get charged to rent it).

Should I rent a router/modem from Suddenlink?

Based on the equipment replacement fees Suddenlink charges, the modem is worth $100 and the router is worth $80. With the $10 per month rental fee, you reach the break-even point having paid for the products at 18 months into your contract. (But you still won’t own them!) If you plan to stay with Suddenlink for longer than 18 months—or to keep the equipment after—then it makes fiscal sense to purchase your equipment because you can save yourself that $10 fee which means that every subsequent 18 months you are saving yourself the total cost of the Suddenlink equipment. 

What should I know about buying a modem?

Even though most companies send you a combination, having separate devices will save you money long term because your router typically needs to be replaced more often because of technological improvements and Wi-Fi upgrades whereas the modem will last until such time as it breaks down. 

Compatibility

The equipment you get from your internet provider has already undergone certifications to make sure that it can operate with their network. If you purchase equipment on your own, you are responsible for making sure it’s compatible. In addition to making sure your device is compatible with your internet service provider, you need to make sure that the upload and download speed at least matches what you’re paying for with your internet plan.

Troubleshooting

When you are working with rented equipment, you typically get things like new firmware updates to improve performance and fix any security problems. Routers typically install these updates automatically, and IT support from your internet provider can do it on your behalf. However, this only applies to rented equipment. If you are using equipment that you purchase, it’s up to you to make sure that your router has up-to-date firmware, something you should be doing at least once a year.

Where can I find out about which modem to buy?

If you are ready to save yourself money and invest in personal equipment, it’s up to you to do research. Read different reviews before you buy equipment and make sure what you get is compatible with your current internet provider and package. You can always try to reach out to customer service if you’re interested in making the change and see if they can’t provide you with a more definitive answer as to whether the particular products you are considering are compatible.

I’m having issues with Suddenlink equipment return, what should I do?

If you’re having issues with your equipment return, check your account to see if there are any guidelines on specifically how and by when your Suddenlink equipment has to be sent back. Reach out to customer service if that doesn’t work. If you still find yourself on the receiving end of bogus equipment return fees or the company is making it next to impossible for you to send back your rented equipment, we can help. 

At FairShake we can help you resolve any outstanding issues or fees.

Get started now…








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