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Are you a Windstream Internet user looking for ways to save on the monthly rental charge for the internet equipment, but also want to make the most of your Windstream connection? Well, if your answer is yes, you have come to the right place. Here you’ll find the necessary information you must be armed with when you set out to buy your own Windstream-compatible modem & router.

What to consider when buying third-party internet equipment for Windstream Internet

Is the equipment compatible?  

The most critical aspect to consider when purchasing third-party equipment to run your internet connection is service compatibility. The hardware you pick must be fully supportive of your Windstream Internet service. And in order to ensure that, you need to be aware of what type of connection you have. Because Windstream Communications uses a mix of DSL technologies, non-bonded and bonded, to deliver high-speed internet, and also provides Fiber-to-the-home connections in select locations.

While Windstream allows you to BYOD, it is not as candid about which modems and routers are compatible with the various types of connection it delivers. The ISP sure tells you which devices it gives out if you opt for Windstream equipment. And, if you call Windstream Customer Service, they’ll also let you know as to which type of connection you have, as well as about the basic settings you’ll need on the device. But that is really it. You’re unlikely to find a list of third-party Windstream-compatible equipment from the horse’s mouth, or have Windstream walk you through the setup.

Are you tech savvy?

Before we move forward and discuss Windstream-compatible modem/routers, allows us to add a word of caution here. While saving over $100 every year may appear to be the right thing to do, it is advisable to BYOD only if you are tech savvy. Because, it is not just the setting up of your third-party internet equipment that you must be able to deal with, but its upkeep. Windstream is unlikely to extend free tech support and help you troubleshoot problems when it is delivered via your own equipment.

So if you believe you can handle the task, it is only prudent to save the money you’ll be dishing out to Windstream for the internet equipment every month. If however, that is not the case, we recommend you stick to buying one of the following devices which Windstream gives out to its subscribers. This way you’re likely to avoid the hassle of any issues arising from incompatibility, and also able to find online Windstream resources to troubleshoot common problems.  

The 3 best Windstream-compatible modems & routers

Here, take a look at key features of the top 3 Windstream-compatible modem-router devices before you  purchase one.

Motorola MD1600 VDSL2/ADSL2 Modem plus AC1600 Gigabit Router

This high-performance DSL modem-router combo is an ideal choice for you if you are on a VDSL or ADSL connection from Windstream. The good thing about this device is it also supports high-speed DSL internet services from the likes of CenturyLink and TDS. With that said, do keep in mind this Motorola modem-router combo will not support Bonded VDSL, Bonded ADSL or Vectored VDSL connections.

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Wi-Fi VDSL/ADSL Modem-Router (D7000)

This Netgear Nighthawk device comes with a fast built-in VDSL modem for fiber broadband, and is also compatible with ADSL, ADSL2, ADSL2 and VDSL2 connections. It does not however support bonded VDSL. The best thing about it is its Gigabit Ethernet WAN port, which makes it universally compatible with any internet service type.

Actiontec GT784WN Wireless-N DSL Modem-Router

If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Actiontec GT784WN Wireless modem-router is a good choice. It is more pocket-friendly, albeit without compromise on the essential features. That is why you actually get 3 products in one?an ADSL2/2 modem, a 4-port switch, and 300 Mbps wireless-N router.

  • The 2-in-1 modem-router combo factor helps simplify your internet setup, and reduce the clutter of technology in your living space.
  • It supports data transfer rates up to 300 Mbps, and utilizes the WiFi 4 (802.11n) standard so you can expect to connect a range of wireless devices for a seamless Wi-Fi experience. Its MIMO smart antenna technology further enhances coverage, leaving fewer dead spots. The best part is it is able to triple the available bandwidth, so you are less likely to encounter pixelated video streams or never-ending downloads.
  • The GT784WN includes robust Firewall and wireless security which includes WPA/WPA2 encryption as well as additional encryption to prevent intruders. The high-grade Firewall is customizable with features like content filtering, intrusion detection and more.
  • The Actiontec device comes with four 10/100 Ethernet LAN ports, and one ADSL port.
  • The best part is the device is preconfigured for a simple setup and auto detects your specific service settings.

Wrapping it up

Hopefully, this article will help you find the one that fits your budget and gets you the features you need. The one thing you must however remain cautious of is most Windstream compatible modem-routers are likely be limited to DSL-based connections. So if you want a device for long-term use with just about any service type, look for the ones universally compatible with any internet service type.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I buy a modem and router from Windstream directly?

No. Windstream only rents out internet equipment to its subscribers. You will be required to pay a monthly rental fee for the device, which is on top of the Windstream package price. The rental fee may vary from one service region to another. If you still have any confusion about Windstream internet equipment, you can speak to a Windstream Customer Service representative at 1-855-349-9312. They’ll be happy to guide you as necessary.

Can I install Windstream modem and router on my own?

Yes. You can choose to install Windstream Internet equipment on your own. But often times the installation is included in the promo price offer, so do check for that. In any case, pro or self install, a service activation fee of $60 is applicable to all new connections.