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So, you’ve got yourself a CenturyLink internet package. Firstly, that was the right decision to make! CenturyLink is one of the top 5 service providers in the U.S. ? as per consumer perception. With a 4.5 million-subscriber base and a network that spans 36 states, CenturyLink is well-equipped to expand and bring more customers into its network! Now that you have become one of those 4.5 million subscribers, it comes as no surprise that you will have some questions regarding internet activation.

If that is indeed the case, then you have landed on the right blog. Why would you come looking for an internet activation guide blog otherwise? Well, let’s dig into it right away.

First things first, you won’t need a guide to internet activation, unless you have chosen the self-installation option. CenturyLink offers two types of internet connections: DSL and Fiber. If you are getting DSL internet, then you get to choose from pro installation and self-installation. With Fiber internet, however, you are bound to pro installation only.

After you have chosen self-installation, the next step is connecting and setting up your modem and router. After that, we do the following.

  • After ensuring that your system is connected to the modem via an Ethernet cable, the next thing to do is to open the browser on your computer and enter http://connect.centurylink.com/ in the address field.
  • After clicking enter, you will be redirected to another screen, which is the welcome screen. At the top of the page, you can choose to continue in English or Español language. Click Next once you’re done choosing the language.
  • Your identity is automatically verified, but if it isn’t you will be asked for additional information.
  • Next, you will be redirected to the “High-Speed Internet Subscriber Agreement”, which you need to read carefully and then click the I Accept
  • Wait for the CenturyLink network to connect to your modem. The browser window needs to be kept open the whole time.
  • After establishing the connection, you will be given the option of turning on the modem’s wireless router. If you turn it on, you will be able to connect several devices wirelessly to the internet. After making your choice, click on the Next Note that you will be able to change your selection in the modem settings if you wish to.
  • Next, you will be redirected to your modem/router settings. You can view and change the Wi-Fi name and security key or you can leave it as it is. Although, we recommend changing it to something that is easily memorable for you and yet, at the same time, not easily guessed by strangers.
  • Then, you can choose if you want instructions on how to connect your devices, or you can skip it entirely if you know what to do. Once you’re finished with this step, click Next.
  • Make your decision about which emails and messages you want to receive and choose the alerts that you want like order status, repairs, promotions, etc.
  • Next, you will come to your key account information, for which we suggest you keep a separate record, as you might need it in the future. After that, click next and that completes our setup.
  • An additional step to this is if you choose to continue the setup, then you can change or edit some additional requirements. But, if you stop, then the setup will end right there and you can change anything in the modem or router settings later on.

Pro Installation or Self-Installation?

We mentioned before that you have two options for installation with CenturyLink internet: Pro installation and self-installation. What is the difference between the two? That’s exactly what we will be seeing here.

Installation types Pros Cons

Pro Installation

  • Professional installation and set-up
  • All issues encountered during installation and set-up are sorted by the technician right away
  • Quick set-up
  • Extra fees
  • Requirement of an appointment window
  • Expensive (Up to $125)

Self-Installation

  • No extra fees
  • No need to book an appointment
  • Do it yourself on your own time
  • Time-taking (depends on your understanding and pace)
  • No in-person technical support at the time
  • Troubleshooting problems on your own

The table above gives a good idea of both types of installations. Looking at it, you can see for yourself which option is better for you. The professional installation includes the whole package, but at the cost of up to $125 and you will also need to seek an appointment. The self-installation, on the other hand, comes with instructions and equipment to make things very easy for you. However, it lacks a professional technician. If you consider yourself somewhat experienced with technology, you will be able to handle it perfectly. If you think you can’t do it, you might just have to go for pro installation. Considering which state and area you are living in like Tucson, Arizona, you might just find a rare offer of free or discounted pro installation.

While activating the internet by yourself is not that difficult a task as long as you’re following the instructions, sometimes, you might encounter some technical or other difficulties like with your CenturyLink WiFi. At that point, you can call CenturyLink customer service to help you out via phone or by directly sending an agent over.

Our Verdict

While pro installation has its benefits and seems easier, self-installation and activation are easy in their own way. Since we have already discussed the pros and cons of both types of installation above, we won’t be going through those here. As for our verdict, the best options is dependent on what you are looking for as a customer. If you want to save a few bucks, you should go for self-installation. But, if you do not mind the few extra bucks as long as you get an expert installation, then go for the pro installation. Do remember that self-installation is available only with the DSL internet connection and not with fiber internet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I set up my CenturyLink internet?

If you have chosen to self-install the modem and router, then you will have to set up the internet yourself. The steps are very basic and are as follows:

  • Ensure the system is connected to the modem via an Ethernet cable.
  • Verify your identity or wait for the computer to verify it.
  • You will have to agree to the “High-Speed Internet Subscriber Agreement” before moving on.
  • Turn on the option for the Wireless router so you can connect your devices wirelessly.
  • Choose the alerts and notifications that you wish to get regarding repairs, promotions, etc.

Can I install CenturyLink internet myself?

The self-installation option for CenturyLink internet is available for DSL internet only, not fiber internet. Installing and setting up the internet is very simple and can be done by following the steps given in the guide. When you choose the self-installation option, you will be given a self-installation kit containing the guide and other equipment.

Why is my CenturyLink modem not connecting to the internet?

If your modem is not connecting to the internet, try rebooting the modem manually or via the CenturyLink app. If it doesn’t work, you can try to contact customer service, or factory reset your modem. There is a way to backup and restore your modem settings so that when you reset the modem, you don’t lose the customizations.

Do I need a technician to install my CenturyLink internet?

CenturyLink offers two options for installation: Pro installation and self-installation. If you choose the pro installation, then an expert technician will do the job of installing and setting up the internet for you. However, even if you choose self-installation and encounter a problem, you can still contact CenturyLink customer service and get help or a technician to do it for you.

How do I turn on Wi-Fi on my CenturyLink modem?

  • Select Enable for the wireless radio.
  • Then, select Apply to save the changes.
  • Select SSID Setup from the left side menu.
  • Select your network name.
  • Next, select Broadcast SSID.
  • Select Apply to save the changes.