Best Routers For Cox – 2023 Picks

Austin
| Last Updated: January 14, 2023

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Cox is one of the leading ISPs in the country. Like every good internet service provider, Cox wants you to buy everything you need to get the internet in your house from them. 

However, buying a router from Cox can be a little expensive even with the broken down monthly payments. 

The good news is that you can buy one of the best routers for Cox independently. All you have to do is find one that is Cox compatible, and you can save quite a bit of money.

As luck would have it, I have a list of the best Cox routers in the market today...right here.

Comparison of the Best Routers For Cox

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • WEP,WPA, and WPA2 security protocols used
  • Data transfer rates of up to 1300Mbps
  • 16 x 4 channel bonding option
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  • Service speeds of up 1000Mbps
  • Easy to read and operate display
  • Makes use of a firewall security protocol
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  • Best for the Money
  • Can be used with a VPN server
  • Compatible with Alexa for voice control
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  • Best Modem Router Combo for Cox
  • Comes with 16 x 4 modem channels included
  • Up to 1600Mbps data transfer rates
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  • Very easy to install and operate
  • Made from durable materials to last longer
  • Data transfer rates of up to 1300Mbps
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What Makes a Router Great for Cox?

As mentioned, you can buy a Cox compatible router independently. However, the fact that Cox insists on users buying routers from them tells us that some factors make specific routers great for Cox. Here are a few of those factors:

Wi-Fi Standards

The Wi-Fi standards of your wireless router go a long way in determining the kind of speeds you will get. These protocols are typically standardized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). They range from ‘b,’ ‘g,’ ‘n’, ‘ac,' and 'ad.'

The best option is the 'ac.' That's mostly because the ‘a,’ ‘b,’ ‘g,’ and ‘n’ standards are way too old, and the 'ad' standard routers are too expensive. This leaves you with the 'ac' standard routers, which are quite popular and work well with Cox.

MU-MIMO and Beamforming

Both these technologies are necessary for any future-proof router. It means that your router can easily connect multiple devices to your Wi-Fi without compromising the signal's quality and speeds getting to any of those devices.

Number of Bands

To enjoy the speeds you will get from Cox, you need at least a dual-band router. A Tri-Band would be better, but a dual-band will work just fine.

There are also other things to consider, such as the number of ports available for wired connections, pricing, and coverage, but those are all subjective factors.

Review of the Best Cox Routers

If you're ready to learn more, here are some details on some of the best Cox routers

Best Overall:
Netgear C6250

PROS

  • Fast speeds
  • Safe and secure
  • Excellent performance
  • Modem and router combo
  • Compatible with every major ISP

CONS

  • Speeds vary

What Recent Buyers Report

This router is excellent for most people since it's compatible with every major ISP from Cox to Spectrum and even AT&T. If you are looking to save monthly fees on a modem and router combo that works, this is the one you want to get.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The router is designed to give you adequate coverage of about 1500 sq. ft. and can connect to a maximum of 25 devices. As far as speeds are concerned, you can get up to 1600 Mbps. The modem end of it is designed with 16X4 channel bonding as well as DOCSIS 3.0. technology.

One of the biggest issues most people have is how complicated setting up some routers can be. That won't be a problem with this one. It has an easy setup system that takes only five minutes.

All you have to do is connect it to the coax cable, connect an Ethernet cable to one of your computers, and follow the on-screen prompts. It comes with two gigabit Ethernet ports and a USB port that gives you extremely fast and reliable speeds.

Bottom Line

It's affordable, easy to set up, and works with every major ISP. What more could you want in a modem and router combo?

Runner-up:
Motorola MG7700

PROS

  • Slick design
  • Wireless power boost
  • Excellent performance
  • Built-in high-speed router
  • Approved by most major ISPs including Cox and Comcast

CONS

  • The Wi-Fi signal can be patchy
  • Firmware updates have to be third party

What Recent Buyers Report

We live in a world run by gadgets. The problem is, sometimes, these gadgets can have a bulky build that takes up too much space. Not this one. This modem and router combo features a slick design that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also doesn't take up much space wherever you put it.

Why it Stands Out to Us

One of the biggest issues with most Wi-Fi modems is that they don't offer as strong a connection on Wi-Fi as they do on wired connections. This one tries to solve that problem by featuring power boost technology, which amplifies the signal, increasing the speeds you get on Wi-Fi.

It also features Beamforming technology, which intelligently improves wireless performance. It also features a 24x8 DOCSIS 3.0 modem plus a dual-band router with gigabit ports that offer extremely fast connections.

Bottom Line

This is such a beautifully designed modem and router combo that doesn't take up much space. Its performance is also quite impressive, and the coverage is commendable. It is a good choice if you are looking for more features and more impressive technology.

Best for the Money:
TP-Link AC1750

PROS

  • Gigabit router
  • Excellent brand
  • Dual-band router
  • 24/7 technical support
  • External antennas for better range

CONS

  • Rather bright LED lights
  • 450Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band is slower than most routers in its class

What Recent Buyers Report

There are very few things that make routers outstanding: one of them is the number of bands that ensure reliable connections, and the other one is whether or not it's a gigabit router. This router is both and so much more.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Cox has a gigabit data package that offers you exceptionally fast speeds (up to 1Gbps wired). However, to take advantage of those speeds, you need to have the right router that is both Cox approved and also a gigabit router. This router has 4 gigabit LAN ports, which allow for wired connections.

The fact that it's a dual-band router that offers you 450Mbps speeds at the 2.4 GHz and 1300Mbps for the 5 GHz band means that you can now stream 4K videos and play games online without a care in the world.

Furthermore, it has three external antennas that ensure you have long-range Wi-Fi coverage. Thanks to the TP-Link tether app, the system is very easy to set up as well as remotely manage.

Bottom Line

TP-Link is one of the industry's leading brands and is well-renowned for its excellent customer service and reliable products. This modem and router combo is in keeping with that good tradition.

Best Modem Router Combo for Cox:
ARRIS SURFboard SBG10

PROS

  • Slim design
  • Fast speeds
  • Dual-band router
  • Easy setup process
  • Compatible with most major ISPs

CONS

  • The wireless signal can be patchy at times
  • Frequently needs rebooting to improve speeds

What Recent Buyers Report

With this router from ARRIS, you get three products in one: a dual-band Wi-Fi router that gives you excellent speeds, DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem that is compatible with Cox, and 2 Port Gigabit Ethernet Router that allows for even faster-wired speeds.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This modem and router combo is fast. It works well for plans that go up to 400Mbp. It has 16 downstream channels, which means that you'll always have connectivity despite the number of devices simultaneously connected and four upstream channels. You can easily set it up by simply going to the SURFboard manager app. The setup takes less than five minutes, and the connectivity is excellent.

Bottom Line

It's compatible with most major ISP providers and easy to set up. It provides you with two Ethernet ports for even faster-wired connectivity and has an excellent Wi-Fi coverage range. It's the perfect modem and router combination for a small family.

Editor's Pick:
Netgear Nighthawk R7000

PROS

  • Easy setup procedure
  • Connects up to 30 devices
  • Approved by all major ISPs
  • Supports fast internet plans
  • Wired connectivity available

CONS

  • Bright LED lights
  • Not so slick design

What Recent Buyers Report

Netgear is one of those brands that have carved out a wonderful reputation for themselves in the industry. They are well known for their excellent products and wonderful technical support. This router is one of their best in terms of speeds, features, functionality, and compatibility with all major ISP providers in the country.

Why it Stands Out to Us

There are several good reasons why this router stands out to us. For one thing, it offers you total control of your connectivity. The parental controls allow you to determine which devices can access the internet and for how long. You can also check device usage history and filter out harmful websites.

Furthermore, Netgear provides you with Netgear Armor, powered by BitDefender, one of the world's leading cybersecurity brands. It keeps your connection from potential malware, viruses, and data theft.

The router also supports WPA2 wireless security protocols and offers you the option of setting up Guest Wi-Fi access, so you don't have to share your password with every visitor.

Bottom Line

It features a dual-core processor, which makes it fast, has three amplified antennas for better coverage, and features Beamforming technology. It's compatible with Alexa and can connect to 30 devices. What more could you want in a wireless router?

Can You Really Find a Quality Router for Cox That’s Affordable?

Yes. You can find a good quality Cox router that is reasonably priced. Some of the best wireless routers cost more than $300, but you will find that some really good dual-band routers go for less than $100.

They are powerful, fast, and get the job done. It all depends on your specific requirements. The trick is to get a router that you will use instead of getting an expensive one with 10 ports while all you need are three to four.

Why Did These Cox Routers Make Our List?

Our choosing criterion depends on a wide range of factors. Some of the most important factors include:

Price

We looked for the best deals in town. Something that will give you value for money.

Security

Wi-Fi security has become paramount for any home network. Therefore, it is important to pick a wireless router with built-in security features that will identify and eliminate malware before it becomes a security issue within your network.

Controls

If you have a family with kids getting onto the internet, you need the ability and peace of mind that comes with monitoring what they do online. The routers we chose have excellent parental control features that allow you to do all that and more.

Brand

While there are obscure brands that manufacture excellent products, experience dictates that dealing with well-known brands is often a better option. They have better customer service, better support, and tend to adhere to higher manufacturing standards, which means you will get a good product more often than not.

Benefits of Investing in Your Own Modem for Cox

Although it's often considered safer to get a router and modem from the ISP if they say that they sell their own routers and modems, it isn't a necessity. Several advantages come with buying your own modem for Cox. Here are a few that might interest you:

You Don't Have to Pay a Monthly Fee

When you get a router and modem from Cox, you will be essentially renting it from them, which means an additional monthly fee of about $9.99 on your budget. When you buy your own, the only fee you have to pay is the purchasing fee, and you own the devices.

Speeds

Unfortunately, when you get your modem from Cox, you can only get what they have to offer. This often means outdated devices with fewer features and slower speeds. However, if you buy your router and modem, you can choose the specifications (speeds and features) that work best for your specific situation.

You Get Full Control of the Device

Rented routers and modems don't give you full control of the devices. By buying your own, you get full access to the control panel and can customize it accordingly.

Netgear C6250

Cox Router Comparisons

Not all of us are as tech-savvy as we would like to be. As such, there are some terminologies we come across (even used in this article) that may come across as confusing. Let's take a look at some of the most commonly used words and try to define them a bit more clearly:

Modem vs Router Cox

In your search for connectivity, you may have come across a "Cox modem and router device combo," which happens to be a bit more expensive than the stand-alone router or modem. Rest assured, a combo and the stand-alone devices aren't the same, although they all do their specific jobs within the network.

Cox Modem

This is the device you need if you are to connect to the ISP. Without the modem, you can't get the internet connection you need from Cox.

Cox Router

This is the device you need to distribute the internet you get from Cox via the modem throughout your house.

Both devices need one another for the entire connection to work. It's advisable to get the modem from Cox directly because they are often well configured to receive their internet connection. However, you can buy the modem and router combo to ensure that you get exactly what you need.

Cox vs AT&T

Cox and AT&T are both internet service providers (ISP), which makes them competitors. If you are ever looking to get internet to your house, these are probably two of the most common brands you will hear about. While they both provide pretty good internet service, there are some differences:

Cox

  • Has excellent budget plans

  • Offers fast 1Gbps speeds

  • Unfortunately, all their plans have data caps

AT&T

  • Offers an affordable 1Gbps plan

  • It's more widely available than Cox

  • Doesn't have as many budget plans as Cox

AT&T is perfect for customers who want blazing fast speeds, while Cox is ideal for people who want good internet service at an affordable rate.

How to Set Up Cox Internet

Setting up your Cox internet is pretty much the same as setting up an internet connection. Here are some of the basic steps you should follow:

  1. Buy the right modem and router.

  2. Check the equipment to ensure that they are Cox compatible.

  3. Find the right spot in your home for the modem and router - somewhere that is near a power source and that is accessible in case you want to have a wired connection.

  4. Plugin the coaxial cable from Cox to the modem. This is what brings the internet into your home.

  5. Follow the step by step guide by your router setup protocol to ensure that you get effective and efficient service.

Remember, you can always call a professional installer to do this for you, although it's pretty simple if you take it to step by step.

Here is a video showing you the entire process: 

Common Router Issues For Cox

If you have ever had cable TV or any other paid service, you know that you will inevitably run into some problems. The bad news is that this will happen now and again. The good news is that; it isn’t the end of the world. Here are several common problems that could arise with Cox internet connection:

Slow Speeds

This is one of the most common issues around. Unfortunately, the speeds that the router manufacturer and ISP advertise aren't always going to be the speeds you get. This is often because there are interferences with Wi-Fi connections.

You are more likely to get those speeds with a wired connection. However, if the speeds are too low (use a speed test website to check), one of the best remedies is simply restarting your router.

No Connection

In this case, it could be that Cox is down, or you could have bought the wrong set of router and modem. If the connection hasn't worked in a while, call Cox and ask them to troubleshoot it, or you might have to buy a Cox compatible router.

You Aren't Getting 1Gbps Speeds

Most people assume that just because they are paying for the 1Gbps package, they should get 1Gbps speeds. While this is theoretically true, the truth is that most people won't get these speeds over Wi-Fi. They will, however, get it over wired connections.

If, however, you aren't getting anywhere near those speeds, even on a wired connection, it could be that you don't have a gigabit router. You need the right equipment for those kinds of speeds. Check the manufacturer's page to see if your router is a gigabit router. If it isn't, you would have to buy a gigabit router to get such speeds.        

Conclusion

The best course of action is to buy yourself a Cox compatible router. Not only is it a cheaper option, but it's also the better option. You get better speeds, more customization options, and you don't have to pay that monthly fee. The options provided here are all excellent choices.

People Also Ask

Since more and more people are getting an internet connection at home through Cox, here are some of the most common questions asked:

Should I Buy My Own Modem For Cox?

Yes. As long as you get a Cox compatible modem, the advantages of owning your own modem over renting one are numerous. For one thing, it's much cheaper.

Can You Use Any Router With Cox?

No. You have to use a router that's on the "Cox approved routers" list.

How Much Does a Cox Router Cost?

This depends on the router you choose. The price could be anywhere from just above $100 to slightly above $300.

Who is Cox Owned by?

Cox Enterprises is more than 50 years old and is family-owned. The company owns Cox Communication, which is the major ISP provider for the conglomerate. It also owns Cox Automotive, Kelley Blue Book, Auto Trader, and Cox Homelife.

How Do I Change the Password on My Cox Router?

If you have a My Wi-Fi enabled modem, all you have to do is go to Cox.com, click on the "Wireless Password" field and change your password then save.

How to Access Cox Router

You can access your router from the Cox.com website:

  1. Sign in to your account.

  2. Enter the User ID and your password.

  3. Click the My Wi-Fi link to access your router.

  4. Go to the Cox.com website.

  5. Click on Network (right at the bottom).

  6. Click "Gateway".

  7. Click on "Advanced Settings".

  8. Find "Port Forwarding".

  9. Add Port Forward.


Austin

When the tech company I worked for restructured and I ended up jobless, I decided to put the wealth of knowledge and management skills to use somewhere new. I’d checked out a few buyer’s guides on the site in the past and reached out to the previous owner. A few months later, here we are. Now, I get to be behind the scenes, helping people find the best tech.