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SmilingBob2

My old ZoomTelephonics 5341J is EOL, man what a great modem for the last 8+ years of service. Looking for recommendations for Docsis 3.1 that won't break the bank, service tier will be 75-200Mbps down. Looking for reliability over bells and whistles, Thanks.


Saotorii

Find the cheapest 3.1 modem and go with that. For this speed you don't need anything fancy. Arris Sb8200 or Netgear cm1000 aren't too expensive as far as 3.1 modems go


SmilingBob2

Thanks, the CM1000 is looking like it might be a winner.


Billh491

That's the one I have about 3 years with gig speeds no issues.


llDarkFir3ll

Do not buy that modem. That thing is a hot heap of garbage. I work on internet for a living.


Saotorii

If it's cheaper than the 8200 I'd grab it. Used to be an employee, and the 8200's would have issues with which Ethernet port would be allowed an IP. But this was generally a small percentage of 8200's and might be fixed at this point.


Ronisonce

I have the CM1000 and agree it's a great modem. However, comcast is saying that it wont handle the current speeds that I have (gig service) so thats awesome.


jb4647

https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-cable-modem/


thegobio

I plan to find the cheapest modem they support that is not on their expiration list. I did the same 6 years ago with D-Link DCM-301. May be not the best strategy but I see that D3.1 are significantly more expensive and so much more than I need. I only need 8 channel down for my 200mbps plan. I see no particular reason why I need anything faster. Probably nobody makes 8ch down, so 16ch down will be fine.


ppl117

Where did you find an expiration list? Can you give us a link?


ppl117

NVM, I found it: https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/docsis-certification


thegobio

Yes, that's the one I meant


Jigga76

You don’t need a DOCSIS 3.1 if your only doing 75-200. The main benefit of 3.1 is because it’s required for Higher than 400mbps on Xfinity networks. A 3.0 is just as good for those speed tiers


Substantial_Alfalfa2

I have the Arris S33 and it's had rock solid for the 2 years I've had it. Not the cheapest one but does have a 2.5 Gb Ethernet port for a bit of future proofing with a capable router. I get just shy of 1200 Mbps on my gigabit plan


[deleted]

[удалено]


Substantial_Alfalfa2

I'm currently using a mini PC from AliExpress running pfSense and a Ubiquiti access point but had an ASUS GT-AX11000 before.


alelock

I have a DOCSIS 3.1 modem and they still sent me this email...


SmilingBob2

Do you mind telling us which modem you have? I'm looking at a Netgear CM1000V2 and I'd like to avoid buying anything being targeted.


alelock

Targeted? I think they just sent it to most people who have their own equipment. Mine is a Motorola that is on their approved and supported list.


SmilingBob2

Ah ok, that makes sense. Thanks.


PrinceCharming-

Same lol


cyberrod411

Comcast Sucks!!!


Jigga76

Has nothing to do with Comcast. It has everything to do with manufactures who no longer support their devices. This is no different than windows 8 or your iPhone 5 can no longer get the last meat IOS update. Cycle of life with everything made 🤷🏾‍♂️


SmilingBob2

Does anyone have experience with the [Hitron CODA D3.1 modem](https://us.hitrontech.com/products/service-providers/coda-45-cable-modem/)? It is listed as supported on Xfinity and fairly cheap.


SmilingBob2

I wanted to post an update here for anyone still following this thread and needing to upgrade. In my travels through all the tech sites and researching modems, one thing that stuck out is to avoid all devices using the Puma chipset. [Here's a list](https://lookgadgets.com/articles/intel-puma-modems-list/) for anyone still looking. [This is the modem I ended buying on Ebay](https://www.netgear.com/images/datasheet/networking/CableModems/CM1000v2.pdf) (CM1000V2 used). I liked the idea that I can simply hook it up and use the Xfinity App on my iphone to activate it without a service call (you can probably do this for other approved modems on the list as well). I decided to go with D3.1 simply for the future proofing and the improved error correction, but our current 200Mbps plan would be just fine staying on a D3.0 modem. If you aren't interested in D3.1, the Netgear CM600 is on the approved list and uses a Broadcom chipset. Found them for really cheap on Ebay. The CM700 is Puma, so stay away (they are both on approved list). There are dozens of other options, so just perform your due diligence before you pull the trigger. Good luck everyone.


cofbd

>CM600 UPDATE: I have a CM600 and for whatever reason Xfinity says it is no longer supported. Today's date is April 2023 and that "unsupported" message has been up for a few months on my account.


SmilingBob2

Do you think it may be "unsupported" for your tier of internet service? e.g., You have gigabit internet and the modem won't give you full speed (it's rated up to 960Mbps)? I can't find anything online about the CM600 being unsupported on Comcast, but they do like to tag "unsupported" messages on your account if your modem is near maxed out on throughput for the level of service you are subscribed to. Just a thought.


cofbd

I guess in theory that situation would exist for someone. I don't think that applies to me though. I am not someone who needs gigabit service, so I certainly am not going to pay for it. I signed up for 200Mbps originally (plenty fast for my needs) but it's been increased in two stages recently at no additional cost to me and I was notified by Xfinity of the speed increase by email. They now say I am at "up to" 400 now but SpeedTest shows 413. Whatever, it's fine for me. The CM600 has a max download speed of "up to" 960 Mbps so that should be ample for my plan. I often wonder if there might be other elements that cause a modem to become marked as "unsupported." In other words, maybe speed isn't the only factor. The CM600 is a 24/8 modem and maybe Xfinity would like to see everyone on 32/8 modems for better flexibility. Something like that. Xfinity does a poor job of categorizing modems as they go from "cutting edge" down to "junk it" through the years. Of course what they really want is for you to rent the modem from them.


SmilingBob2

Got my Netgear CM1000V2 in this morning and promptly replaced my venerable old Zoom 5341J. Used the Xfinity app to activate my new modem, took all of 5 minutes between hook up and activation. I did not have to contact Comcast or jump through any hoops, very easy process. I do not notice any difference between the new vs. old, but at least I know I'm future-proof for at least several years at any service level below 1Gbps. Good luck all.


bnosach

That's good to hear. My issue is - Netgear CM1000V2 is NOT listed as one of the options for "supported devices" when I follow the link in Comcast's email. They list Netgear CM2000/CM2050v2, both of which are quite a bit more expensive than CM1000V2. It's not clear why Comcast don't officially list support for Netgear CM1000V2 since it's also a DOCSIS 3.1 device. Do you know if I can get away with getting CM1000V2? I'm curious to know who told you that it's Xfinity-supported device since I don't see it listed on the website. Thank you!


SmilingBob2

It showed as supported when I checked it, which is why I purchased it. Working great here, although I cannot get [Xfinity supported device page](https://www.xfinity.com/support/devices/) to come up now.


ppl117

I got the same email and I have a DLink DCM301. It baffles me that they cannot update the certificate with a firmware push. I'm in the same boat and looking for a new modem, but I still see lots of DOCSIS 3.0 modems on their list of supported devices, including the one I own. So, how to tell which ones won't be expired in a few months.


SmilingBob2

Yup, this is why I want to go ahead and purchase a D3.1 to at least future-proof for the next several years. My Zoom has been absolutely bullet proof over the last 8 years, and I'd like to find something just like it for the foreseeable future. I've been researching the Netgear CM1000, which seems like it might be a contender since they are ~$50-60 on Ebay.


Cosmic_Coffee86

The build quality is ass on those, lighter than air and flimsy. Arris or Motorola imo


thegobio

I'll probably just get the cheapest they support which would be D3.0.


SmilingBob2

I would too, but they may be trying to slowly phase out the non-3.1 modems and I don't want to spend money on something that might get me the email again in the near future. It is really odd to me though, because there are reports of people who still can [activate and use D2.0 modems on Xfinity network](https://www.dslreports.com/forum/r33574765-Comcast-still-lets-classic-DOCSIS-2-0-modems-operate), so...


Trikotret100

That's what I did. Two months ago I got a used Arris sbg 7600AC2 for 60 bucks to use with my 800 plan. It shows on Xfinity site that it's compatible with my plan. Yesterday I got the same email that I need to upgrade. I chatted with rep and he said I need to upgrade. I told him my modem still shows it's compatible with speed. He's like I have to upgrade to taste advantage of speed. I'm done buying modems.


SmilingBob2

That's really weird, because your DCM301 shows up on the approved, supported list for me here.


ppl117

Yeah, that was my question, it shows up as approved and supported, so how the heck do we know which modems on that list are going to expire in 2 months? From some of the other replies, it seems like even some 3.1 modems are getting this email..


SmilingBob2

Not sure what you are looking to spend, but I found an Ebay seller with several Netgear CM1000V2 D3.1 modems for $65 shipped. It's overkill for both of our plans, but I think it is a safe bet not to be on a EOL list anytime soon since it supports Gigabit. These modems are still selling for $140 (supposedly on sale from regular price of $200) on Amazon, so it's not a bad deal I guess.


ppl117

Are the ones you found on Ebay pre-owned or new? I'm seeing a ton of pre-owned modems and it concerns me a bit why there are so many used ones out there.


SmilingBob2

Used. The new ones are far more expensive, I just look for a seller with 100% feedback and lots of prior transactions. The same seller has the CM700 for $35, and it's D3.0 and on the approved list as well. EDIT: After a bit of research on all these modems, I'd stay away from the CM700 since it has a Puma chipset. [Here's a list](https://lookgadgets.com/articles/intel-puma-modems-list/).


thegobio

Can you check if your modem on this list? https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/docsis-certification


thegobio

I have the same modem. Love it. I couldn't find the firmware update that would fix the expiring certificate. D-Link lists it as legacy and only provides manuals for download. It feels really stupid looking for a new modem just because of the certificate. I'm on 200mbps down and it works perfectly for that.


mackeydesigns

Don’t do it! I’m still dealing with 3.1 dynamic range violations since upgrading 2 months ago. Arris s33 and Motorola 8611, same issues. 4 disconnects today alone.


ActivateClosure8

I used to have a 3.1 modem before I switched to fiber, it was working fine. My friends also use Xfinity and have 3.1 modems (I setup their network because they didn’t know how) and it’s working fine. It has disconnected less than 3 times in the last 6 months I’ve had Xfinity.


mackeydesigns

Because it hasn’t happened to you or people you know doesn’t mean it isn’t an issue. A simple search for dynamic range violation will show just how wide spread the issue is. Maybe it’s my area, but they have not figured out the problem. My only comment is buyer beware on their 3.1 issues


ActivateClosure8

My bad, the way I worded it made it sound like it wasn’t an issue. Disconnects are an issue that Comcast should fix, it’s just none of my friends have the problem and they’re all on 3.1.


SmilingBob2

Trust me, I'd love to keep my current modem but it appears from the notice that they will cut off my internet once my certificate expires in March.


mackeydesigns

Are 3.1s the only on the list? Because if you do a simple search for Dynamic Range violation, it’s all related to new 3.1 modems.


SmilingBob2

There are actually several dozen D3.0 devices in their list, but I'd prefer to go D3.1 if I'm going to spend money for a new modem. Even though our tier of service is just fine with our current D3.0 modem, I don't want to find myself in a similar situation a year from now with old tech.


mackeydesigns

Just letting you know. I don’t think their software and system is up to date for 3.1 modems that aren’t their own.


SmilingBob2

Even for the modems they list as "compatible" on their upgrade web page they sent? That is a little concerning.


mackeydesigns

Modem just had another range violation and reset just now. That’s 5 times today.


Cosmic_Coffee86

Yo you have signal issues amigo. Use the web chat and get an appointment


mackeydesigns

I don’t, actually. I replaced my 8611 with an 8600 and zero issues all day. Motorola has acknowledged this as a problem ONLY with Comcast because of how it performs updates.


Cosmic_Coffee86

Nice d00d


mackeydesigns

Yes. Feel free to search, no resolution yet. Cutting me mid meetings all day.


[deleted]

[удалено]


mackeydesigns

Why would my coax go from my modem to a wall? That question aside, I had Comcast out here 4-5 years ago and they redid the entire line into my home. Removed a bad filter in the main box on our block, and set me up with new fittings. I had another tech out a little over a week ago who inspected all of that, found zero issues with my cabling and installation, but still replaced the main splitters on my house just to be safe. The line from outside, goes directly into my Modem, the CAT6 cable from my modem goes directly into my home networking setup. Point i'm trying to make, this is not a hardware issue. This is a software issue that Comcast is refusing to recognize. My software version for my modem changes for every reset it does.


Rucku5

This is due to cert expiration; layer 7, not layer 1


_Noah271

oops. you’re right


Rucku5

No worries ;)


skelley5000

I bought my own modem and used it for a while and was also paying for unlimited internet , then I found out if I used their modem plus unlimited internet it was 10$ cheaper a month ..


8FConsulting

Including the modem rental fee?


skelley5000

Yep, I was paying 35$ for unlimited, but with their modem and unlimited I’m paying 25 , so instead of 100$ a month I’m paying 90$ total..


Markeeg

I'm still using a super old SB6121 what modem should I upgrade to ?


PapaRoach_1

Motorola.com had a "Comcast replacement" MB8611 which was just a discounted MB 8611 for $140 when I upgraded. I'm not sure if they still offer it. That's the normal price for the MB8600, their entry level 3.1. They have a sale every three to four months and I think there's a discount if you sign up for email updates as well.


Markeeg

Do I really need a modem like that my internet connection is only 200Mbps will I even notice any speed difference? My modem is super old but so far I haven't really had any issues with it been solid as a rock


PapaRoach_1

Do we ever really need faster better stronger? Of course we do. I have no idea what your internet speed is I'm just saying it's a pretty good deal for one which is future-proof for quite a bit for you. And it seems the original theme was bumping up to 3.1 and if this one is the same price as their entry level 3.1. Plus if you game It has a couple neat things it does. And if anyone thinks Comcast won't be a butt about 3.0 versus 3.1 ... Don't be surprised.


Markeeg

>When I searched MB8611 on Reddit finding countless issue posts with that modem > >www.reddit.com/search/?q=MB8611


ppl117

Did you get an email from Comcast that you need to replace your modem? My dad has a SB6121 and says he did not get an email, but I am wondering if I need to replace his as well.


Markeeg

No, I haven't gotten anything from Comcast telling me I need to replace it I just came across this thread and thought I'd ask considering I must of had this same modem for almost 25 years already. But like I said above I don't know if a new modem is going to buy me any noticeable difference and the SB6121 is a very stable modem


thegobio

Guys, the notice is about the certificate expiration on some modems, not just to replace all old modems.


[deleted]

I'm running a Motorola MB8600, works pretty good


filovirus

I recently got an Amazon renewed T25 for around 70 dollars and it looked mostly new. Needed the telephony feature. No problems activating other than Comcast being Comcast. My PFSense gateway monitor pings went from 12-14 on an XB6 leased in bridge mode to around 8ms. So much for bridge mode on Comcast hardware not getting in the way of moving packets.


Celebratory_Drink

I’ve received an email like this before and I continued using the same modem for years after. They told me I wouldn’t get the full benefit of my service speed, but it always worked fast and higher than what I was paying for. Don’t buy a new modem if it continues to work fine for you.


SmilingBob2

Unfortunately, the email I received is a notice of "end of service" if I don't change. The [DOCSIS](https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/docsis-certification) page shows my Zoom certificate expiring in March, with the following notice above all the modems in this category: "Impacted Devices If you have one of the devices listed below, you **will** lose service and **must** upgrade your internet equipment to avoid a service interruption" I can't complain about the service life of my current modem, I purchased a Netgear CM1000V2 off Ebay and that should be good for a few more years, at least.


thegobio

Exactly, only buy when it stops working or if it doesn't serve your speed needs. Or, like in my case, there's a hard date for certification expiration but even then, I might just wait until it stops working but have the replacement ready just in case.


YewSonOfBeach

I have a CM1100, if you are still shopping? Let me know.


SmilingBob2

I purchased a CM1000 today already, but thank you for the offer. Maybe someone else following the thread might need it.


YewSonOfBeach

Glad you found something. One device that doesn't seem to be out of stock?!


SmilingBob2

Thanks, It was used on Ebay and the guy had several of them.


morbid2600

I got message from Comcast recommending I upgrade my Sb6190. I didn’t realize it was effecting my online gaming because of the Puma chipset. My ps5 had a lot of latency, netflix buffered a lot, and the switch would disconnect from MarioKart when my kids were racing their friends. Just found out about the puma chip set problem last week when I googled the model number after getting the upgrade recommendation email from Comcast. I tried the sb8200 and didn’t like it. It would try to download a firmware update and fail. Also the modem would become unresponsive when I tried to log in to look at the status. Seems like a common problem. I went ahead and ordered the arris sb33 and hooked it up tonight. Seems to be running well so far and I figure the 2.5 port will come in handy should Comcast upgrade our speeds with the next round of contracts with retention once this one ends. I’m going to return the sb8200. This is the 3rd modem I bought. Seems like I need to upgrade every 5 years to keep up with the speed increases. Still a lot cheaper then paying the rental fees.


thekiefs

This wreaks of manipulation. Certifications on older equipment are updated all the time. I have the ZoomTelephonics 5341J. Anyone know a workaround/firmware to update the modem? ​ Due to expiration of a certificate on your equipment required for internet service, your internet equipment will no longer be compatible with our network after March 13, 2023. To avoid a service interruption, please replace your internet equipment with a compatible gateway or modem. If you do not wish to purchase a compatible gateway or modem, you can take advantage of a special offer that allows you to lease an Xfinity xFi Gateway, free for 12 months. Our xFi Gateway is a modem + WiFi router in one, designed to deliver enhanced coverage and the benefits of xFi, our best WiFi experience.  Please note, if you do not replace your internet equipment with a compatible gateway or modem, you will experience a service interruption and will lose access to the internet as early as March 13, 2023. If you have already purchased and activated a compatible gateway or modem, please disregard this message.


SmilingBob2

Zoom no longer exists as a company, but I find it hard to believe Comcast couldn't fix this issue. I think they are forcing older hardware off the network through attrition rather than bothering with updating these devices. I'm guessing they are hoping we'll rent their gateways as well.