Forum Discussion

Juice1911's avatar
Juice1911
New Contributor
2 days ago

Modem/Router Security

Does COX provide a Panoramic Gigablast Modem/Router with WPA-3 security?  The updated unit I just received is only WPA-2, same as my previous model.  I'm wondering if I should purchase my own higher security router and use instead.

WPA2/WPA3 Security
  • WiderMouthOpen's avatar
    WiderMouthOpen
    2 days ago

    They have the Technicolor CGM4981(PW8) which has Wifi 6E with WPA3. It is designed for 2Gbps service, so it might not be available to everyone, but you can try swapping out at a Cox store. I suggest calling your nearest store and see if they have them.

    In general though, I suggest getting your own modem and router. Not only is the Panoramic line not very good, but it's good to have your own router for security/privacy reasons. See here for a full list of modems. I suggest the Arris S33/34. IMO renting the gateway from the ISP is like how companies like ATT used to rent phones for their phone service. Just keep in mind, if you have wireless TV boxes or Home life, you need to keep the gateway.

  • RWickenburg's avatar
    RWickenburg
    New Contributor
    2 days ago

    So we must keep the gateway for wireless TV correct?

    COX is updating the town of Wickenburg AZ to fiber now that they updated everyone to Panoramic/wireless TV boxes. A CSR advised last week that fiber would be ran from the outdoor box into our home since coax will not work once fiber at the box is activated, unfortunately one of the COX supervisors checking the work outside stated the CSR was incorrect and coax will work once fiber is connected at the box outside. The supervisor also recommended getting a mesh system to to help with spots with low signal strength (we discussed changing plans and doubling our monthly cost). Not sure if I should invest in Cox mesh pods or another mesh system that would be more reliable based upon reviews I have read. 

    Thx

     

    • WiderMouthOpen's avatar
      WiderMouthOpen
      Esteemed Contributor II
      22 hours ago

      Technically you can get it to work with your own router, or at least people have reported as such, but I think you need the service code on your account that comes with renting the gateway. It may require the box to be wired via ethernet to the retail router though, not sure.

      As for your issue, I suggest asking Cox if they can install a RFoG node in your house to allow a coax signal and use the older coax based boxes. Then you can use your own router connected directly to the ONT. Stay away from their Pods. Not only are they not good, but I don't think they even support them anymore. Access points with wired backhaul and a controller is best, next is mesh, and last is repeaters/pods. If RFoG isn't possible, I would look into getting TV service from somewhere else, like Youtube TV or some other streaming provider. Many ISP are getting out of the TV business like they got out of the email business. Broadcast TV just isn't as profitable as it used to be, at least in comparison to data.

  • WiderMouthOpen's avatar
    WiderMouthOpen
    Esteemed Contributor II
    2 days ago

    They have the Technicolor CGM4981(PW8) which has Wifi 6E with WPA3. It is designed for 2Gbps service, so it might not be available to everyone, but you can try swapping out at a Cox store. I suggest calling your nearest store and see if they have them.

    In general though, I suggest getting your own modem and router. Not only is the Panoramic line not very good, but it's good to have your own router for security/privacy reasons. See here for a full list of modems. I suggest the Arris S33/34. IMO renting the gateway from the ISP is like how companies like ATT used to rent phones for their phone service. Just keep in mind, if you have wireless TV boxes or Home life, you need to keep the gateway.