Cox Approved Modem List: Models and Plan Speeds
Cox approves cable modems by model and internet plan, so check the exact modem and your Cox speed tier before buying. DOCSIS 3.1 models are a sensible place to start for faster plans, but approval can change.
On this page (6 sections)
The best Cox approved modem is one Cox confirms for your exact plan and model. DOCSIS 3.1 modems are a useful starting point for faster plans, but the standard alone does not confirm Cox approval.
Cox's compatibility information can change. Confirm the model and plan directly with Cox before ordering, and check again when you activate your equipment.
How do you use the Cox approved modem list?
Match the exact modem model to your Cox plan in Cox's current compatibility information. Check the full model number, not just the brand or DOCSIS version.
These four modems are described by their manufacturers as compatible with Cox. That does not confirm Cox approval for every speed tier, so verify each one with Cox before buying.
- Motorola MB8611: a standalone DOCSIS 3.1 modem with a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port. It needs a separate router for Wi-Fi.
- ARRIS Surfboard G34: a DOCSIS 3.1 modem-router combo with Wi-Fi 6 and four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports.
- Motorola MB8600: a standalone DOCSIS 3.1 modem with a 1 Gigabit Ethernet port. It needs a separate router for Wi-Fi.
- NETGEAR Nighthawk CM2000: a standalone DOCSIS 3.1 modem with a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port. It needs a separate router for Wi-Fi.
Which modem type fits your Cox setup?
Choose a standalone modem if you already have a router, and a combo if you want one device for both cable access and Wi-Fi. Either way, confirm Cox supports the modem for your speed tier.
A standalone modem connects to a router by Ethernet. The Motorola MB8611, MB8600, and NETGEAR CM2000 fit this setup based on their product information.
The ARRIS G34 combines a cable modem with a Wi-Fi 6 router. Its four Ethernet ports can connect wired devices, while its Wi-Fi handles wireless ones.
If you are comparing combo options, see our guide to modem-router combos for Cox. For a broader comparison of standalone modems and combos, read the cable modem buying guide.
Does DOCSIS 3.1 mean a modem is approved for every Cox speed?
No. DOCSIS 3.1 describes the modem technology, but Cox approval depends on the exact model and plan.
Check those details with Cox rather than choosing by DOCSIS version alone.
The four models here are DOCSIS 3.1 devices. Their Ethernet ports differ: the MB8611 and CM2000 have 2.5 Gbps ports, the G34 has four 1 Gigabit ports, and the MB8600 has a 1 Gigabit port.
Those port speeds describe the device connection, not the speed Cox will provide. Your plan, Cox's support for the modem, router, cabling, and connected devices all affect the speed you can use.
For a closer look at DOCSIS versions and what they mean, see what a cable modem is and how it works. If you're comparing options for very fast cable plans, our multi-gig cable modem guide explains what to check.
What should you verify before buying a Cox modem?
Confirm the exact model, plan compatibility, and voice-service needs before you order. A modem can be suitable for cable internet but still miss a requirement in your Cox setup.
Use this checklist:
- Find the complete model number on Cox's current compatibility information.
- Confirm it supports your plan's speed tier.
- Check whether you need a separate router for Wi-Fi.
- Confirm whether your Cox service includes phone service that must work through the modem.
- Keep the model and account details ready for activation.
The MB8611, MB8600, and CM2000 are standalone modems and don't include Wi-Fi routers. The MB8611 and MB8600 product information also says they don't provide telephone call capability; NETGEAR says the CM2000 is not compatible with bundled voice service.
The G34 combines a modem and router, but its manufacturer advises checking plan compatibility with the cable provider. If you use Cox phone service, ask Cox whether the device supports it before replacing your current equipment.
How do you activate a Cox approved modem?
After Cox confirms compatibility, connect the coax cable, power, and Ethernet, then follow Cox's activation instructions. For a standalone modem, connect Ethernet from the modem to your router if you need Wi-Fi.
Keep your old equipment available until the new modem is online. If activation fails, confirm that the coax connection is secure and that Cox has the right model information for your account.
For connection steps, see how to connect a modem to a router. If the modem won't come online, our guide to modem connection problems covers common checks.
Which Cox modem should you choose?
For the Cox approved modem list, choose by verified plan compatibility first, then by whether you need a standalone modem or a combo. Pick the MB8611 or CM2000 if Cox confirms the model for your tier and you want a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port; pick the G34 if you want a modem and Wi-Fi router in one unit; consider the MB8600 if its 1 Gigabit port suits your plan.
Before ordering, compare your options in the best modems for Cox guide and confirm the exact model with Cox. That final check is the best way to avoid buying a modem that doesn't match your service.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check whether a modem is approved for Cox?
Check Cox's current compatible equipment information for the exact model, then confirm that it supports your internet plan and any voice service you use. Approval can change, so verify before buying and again when you activate the modem.
Does Cox approve DOCSIS 3.1 modems?
Cox supports some DOCSIS 3.1 modems, but the standard alone doesn't confirm approval for every model or plan. Match the exact model to Cox's current compatibility information and your speed tier before you buy.
Do I need a separate router with a Cox modem?
A standalone cable modem needs a separate router if you want Wi-Fi for phones, laptops, and other wireless devices. A modem-router combo has both functions in one unit, so confirm that its modem side is approved for your Cox plan.
Can I use my own modem with Cox?
You can use your own modem when Cox approves that model for your service and plan. Check compatibility first, then follow Cox's activation steps; a device that works with another cable provider may not qualify for your Cox tier.
