how do I access my second routers configuration on a two router setup?

This is NOT an optimal setup. You might be able to do it, but before I start giving instructions on configuring a dual NAT LAN is it possible to return the CMD31T and get a SB6141? You can get them at almost any Bestbuy. I think that with the Nighthawk will give you much better performance overall. Adding the Netgear CG3000d-rg gateway creates a substantial bottleneck your better off avoiding. 

Hi Dottedquad,

I agree with Health Edge; I don't think you will get the speeds you are looking for with the way the current devices are configured. If the purchase of the Netgear CMD31T was within the last 30 days, most retail stores will accept a return as long as you have the original packaging.

Since you would like to use the Netgear Nighthawk, you would be better off with a stand-alone DOCSIS 3.0 modem like a Motorola SB6141 or SB6180. You can find a full list of Cox Compatible modems HERE.

I hope this helps!

Health Edge, I returned the CMD31T. I started from scratch; I am still using the CG3000D and the nighthawk.

My current setup is:

CG3000D-rg port 4 to nighthawk port 4

Router a

CG3000D-RG:

Dhcp: enabled

Wireless channel: 6

Lan ip: 192.168.0.1

Router b

Nighthawk:

Dhcp: disabled

Wireless channel: 11

Lan ip: static 192.168.0.100

I am now able to access both routers. Speed test resulted in between 30m and 50m. So, it seems like I am able to reach ultimate speeds.

I honestly only wanted to hook up a cable modem to a router not two routers together. The tech guy that came out to test my speeds recommended the CG3000D because it allows ultimate speed. I asked him is there another cable modem that is not a router that will supply ultimate speeds, he mentioned the Motorola, but even though the Motorola supports the ultimate speeds, the netgear router/modem supplies more bandwidth then Motorola. Is there any truth to what he said?

In the meantime, is there  another way to configure my setup for better performance?

dottedquad said:
Speed test resulted in between 30m and 50m. So, it seems like I am able to reach ultimate speeds.

What area do you live in? In some areas Ultimate is 100 or even 150Mbps. Also there is more to turning a gateway into a modem then just disabling DHCP. Do you have the Nighthawk configured as a Access Point?   If not, then the firewall, NAT, and possibly other resource using features are enabled. I just really suggest a stand alone modem, and since thats what you want too, I think its the obvious choice.

dottedquad said:
, the netgear router/modem supplies more bandwidth then Motorola

It depends on which Motorola modem he is talking about. The Motorola SB6121 is only capable of 4 downstream channels, so it would NOT be able to take full advantage of Ultimate. But the SB6141 DOES have 8 downstream full channel, exactly the same number as the Netgear gateway. Maybe he only had a older Motorola modem on his truck and so thought the gateway better, but in the long run I think you will be better off returning it.

Your right,In some areas Ultimate is 100 or even 150Mbps. I rechecked my speed and that is what I am receiving. And no, I do not have the nighthawk configured as an "access point".  I would like to get my current configuration up and running for a learning experience until I get a modem. I researched google, but my searched revealed the way I have my current network setup.  There probably is a more in depth article if I dug deaper, but I haven't come across one as of yet.

Well if its working for you, and your happy, who am I to say anything. I was just trying to give you a different perspective. Im kind of a perfectionist though when it comes to my network.