Windstream is an internet service provider that provides budget-friendly plans ideal for people in rural areas or anyone on a budget.
More ways to save money include buying a modem instead of simply renting it from Windstream. Renting a modem can prove to be expensive, as it costs $9.99 per month, and it can add up in the long run.
A modem might end up costing more upfront, but it will help you save on rental costs after that. This option will also prove to be beneficial as you will end up having complete control over your network and setup!
The article below will review a list of 6 handpicked modems that are Windstream compatible. This list has been carefully curated, is backed by immense research, and contains a modem for everyone’s preferences!
Table of Contents
6 Best Modems for Windstream Internet Service
Netgear Nighthawk R7000 Smart Wi-Fi Router
Our Top Modem Recommendation for Windstream Internet Service!
- Get up to 1800 square feet wireless coverage with AC1900 speed
- Recommended for up to 30 devices
- Loaded with advanced technology
- Smart parental controls
Choosing the right modem for your Windstream Internet Service is a pivotal decision, and we’re here to make it easier for you. In this section, we’ve carefully curated a list of the top modems that align with the diverse needs of Windstream customers.
Join us as we explore the 6 Best Modems for Windstream Internet Service, each one poised to enhance your online experience and ensure you get the most out of your Windstream subscription.
- Netgear Nighthawk R7000 Smart Wi-Fi Router
- Actiontec GT784WN Wireless-N ADSL Modem Router
- Motorola MD1600 Modem Router Combo
- ZyXEL C3000Z Modem
- Actiontec C2300A Modem
- Windstream Arris NVG343BQ
1. Netgear Nighthawk R7000 Smart Wi-Fi Router
The Netgear Nighthawk R7000-100PAS is an AC1900 router that uses a 1GHZ dual-core processor to meet your wireless connectivity needs effortlessly.
Its dynamic QoS and dual-band technology will help your game or enhance performance in any other online activity, such as streaming or downloading movies, by focusing the network speeds on stuff that truly needs it.
If you’re an avid gamer, don’t even worry about lag in the middle of your battle royales! Get ready to enjoy lag-free gaming experiences!
Furthermore, the Nighthawk Beamforming feature enables you to get great connectivity in every corner of your house!
You can even set up your network through the Nighthawk UP app, which enables easy installation and setup, along with the OpenVPN Connect app, allowing you to easily access your network remotely. What can make this even better is the amazing features that allow you to share files easily: ReadyCLOUD and ReadySHARE features.
This is quite easily the best router for Windstream Fiber.
Features
- Double firewall protection
- 4 x 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Beamforming+
- Dynamic QoS
- Parental Controls
- Up to 1800 sq. ft. Wi-Fi coverage
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | NETGEAR |
| Manufacturer | Netgear |
| Connectivity Technology | WiFi |
| Compatible Devices | PC, Mac, Unix |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $71.24 |
Pros
- Easy to install
- Lag-free gaming
Cons
- Expensive
- Does not support ADSL/ADSL2/ADSL2+ connections
2. Actiontec GT784WN Wireless-N ADSL Modem Router
This modem is a good choice for Windstream subscribers who don’t use high internet speeds.
It is very easy to set up, and the ease of installation can prove useful for even the least tech-savvy users! After plugging it in, its preconfigured settings will help you get on your way!
Combined with a router, the Actiontec Gt784WN is an ideal choice for families!
Other features include an ADSL 2/2 modem, 300 Mbps wireless N router, and a 4 port switch – a true 3in1 marvel!
It can easily support internet speeds of up to 24 Mbps – which makes it a great choice as it supports ADSL2. It might not be the fastest router out there, but it can handle speeds of up to 300 Mbps, which is amazing for medium-sized households with an average number of internet-using devices.
It also offers parental controls for additional security along with a firewall that keeps you at bay from cyber threats!
This modem router combo is a user-friendly networking device that’s incredibly easy to install!
Features
- MU-MIMO
- Built-in router
- Backward Compatible
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Actiontec |
| Manufacturer | Actiontec |
| Connectivity Technology | WiFi^Wired |
| Compatible Devices | ADSL CenturyLink and major DSL service providers |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $67.99 |
Pros
- Classy design
- Easy setup
- Advanced security
Cons
- Supports only DSL connections
- No USB port
3. Motorola MD1600 Modem Router Combo
This modem router combo is one of the best choices, for it is a great Windstream DSL modem with amazing features and an attractive price tag!
It has an excellent built-in AC1600 gigabit router that not only supports DSL but also provides speeds of up to 100 MBPS! It, therefore, enables you to connect your smartphones and any other devices that use internet-enabled services to your network seamlessly.
The MD1600 is so elegantly designed! It boasts amazing security features along with firewalls and VPN support so that you can access your network remotely as well!
What’s more is that IPv4 and IPv6 support are included, too, along with WPA/WPA2 Wireless security, and all of this serves to protect you from cyber threats such as viruses, malware, hackers, etc.
Hardware capabilities include 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, which make connecting your gaming consoles or your HDTV cables a piece of cake!
It is also a great choice because it is easy to install, but it is also space-saving and amazing for people who dislike having cables around the house. It can be set up in no time using a setup wizard.
Features
- Built-in router
- Supports iPv6
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Motorola |
| Manufacturer | MTRLC LLC |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Compatible Devices | Modem |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $145.00 |
Pros
- 2-year warranty
- Easy setup
- Exquisite design
Cons
- Not compatible with bonded VDSL
4. ZyXEL C3000Z Modem
This is the perfect modem for you if Wi-Fi range is your number one priority. The ZyXEL C3000Z also covers a similar range of 80-90 ft, and it is more budget-friendly!
This range is perfect for many larger homes, but if you want to extend the range even further, a Wi-Fi extender is a good idea.
It is only a Wi-Fi 5 router, so it won’t provide its advertised speeds of up to 1700 Mbps. It is still a great choice for the Kinetic Fiber plan that offers 500 Mbps speeds.
It is, however, not recommended for the Kinetic Gig plan as it won’t be able to handle those speeds in real-life scenarios.
One downside of this modem/router combo is that it is not very easy to change the configuration for MAC filtering and USB devices.
Apart from this, there isn’t really much to dislike the C3000Z. It provides great range and amazing speed, and it won’t burn a hole in your pocket, either!
Features
- Dual-band
- Built-in router
- 4 Ethernet Ports
- 1 USB port
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | ZYXEL |
| Manufacturer | ZYXEL |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Compatible Devices | |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $124.99 |
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy setup
- Strong range
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Difficult to configure MAC filtering and USB devices
5. Actiontec C2300A Modem
This modem works well with Kinetic 400 and 500 plans. It also has dedicated ports that help you access VoIP functionality – this is a good idea if you can churn out some extra bandwidth. Other technologies included are all xDSL protocols and GPON or fiber functionality.
It also has 4 Gig ethernet ports, 1 LAN/WAN convertible port, multiple USB ports that allow for file transfers over networks, and, of course, VoIP ports. Its routing segment also offers dual-band wireless AC standards, which enables incredible connectivity.
Other amazing specs include 4 stream spatial connectivity, support for up to 16 SSIDS, and even transit beamforming support! Its multi-core processor enables you to get the most out of your internet plan, with improved speeds and better performance.
Some of the many features include incredible QoS support, DMZ compatibility, and DoS protection, which prevents online threats from harming your network or devices.
Features
- Max data speeds up to 2.3Gbps
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- QoS support
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Actiontec |
| Manufacturer | ACTIONTEC |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi Fi |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $119.37 |
Pros
- High-speed wireless access
- Advance security
Cons
- Expensive
- Not for low-speed Kinetic plans
6. Windstream Arris NVG343BQ
The Windstream Arris NVG343BQ is perfect for both kinds of Windstream plans, DSL and fiber internet plans. Moreover, it is also an ideal choice for low-cost internet plans that other DSL service providers offer.
The most important feature of this modem that allows it to be compatible with most Kinetic broadband plans is the xDSL technology, along with the fiber-specific ONT port!
If your internet usage at home or the workplace is going to be bandwidth-intensive, the Kinetic internet plan would be ideal for this device as it can comfortably handle speeds of up to 1000 Mbps.
This modem does not have channel bonding present; instead, it uses xDSL technology, which helps handle connections faster than usual!
A fast dual-core processor powers this modem’s gateway. Even though Arris hasn’t been very vocal about hardware configurations, streaming lag and latency are kept to a minimum, according to our tests run on the Kinetic 500 internet plan.
Also, you do not get channel bonding insights on this one, as this isn’t a cable modem. Instead, you get xDSL technology to work with, allowing you to handle connections faster than usual.
A fast dual-core processor is powering this gateway. While Arris hasn’t been all that vocal about the hardware configuration, it manages to keep streaming lag and latency to a minimum, as tested on the Kinetic 500 internet plan.
Features
- Max data speeds up to 1Gbps
- ONT port
- Beamforming
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | WINDSTREAM/ARRIS |
| Manufacturer | WINDSTREAM/ARRIS |
| Connectivity Technology | Wireless 802.11ac & Ethernet |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Color | Black |
| Price | $59.90 |
Pros
- Ventilated design for heat dissipation
- Easy to setup
- Ideal for high-speed Kinetic plans
Cons
- Slow USB port
- Bulky
How We Picked and Tested Modems for Windstream Internet Service?
Selecting the best modems for Windstream internet service was an important task, and we did that by rigorously evaluating the modems on our list to ensure that they met the performance expectations of Windstream customers.
We had experts on our team conduct detailed research and analysis, which led to these modems on the list being shortlisted. The points below will provide you with information on how we went about picking and testing the modems on our list:
In-depth Research
We conducted extensive research on Windstream’s internet services and the modems compatible with and approved by it. To do this, we analyzed Windstream’s service plans, customer reviews, and technical requirements. We also analyzed customer preferences to better understand what they look for when buying modems.
Compatibility with Windstream
A non-negotiable item on our checklist was compatibility with Windstream’s internet services. We had to make sure that the DOCSIS version of every modem we were evaluating was compatible with the plans offered by Windstream.
Windstream-compatible modems support both DOCSIS 3.0 for standard-speed plans and DOCSIS 3.1 for high-speed plans and gigabit services.
Performance Testing
Real-world performance and reliability are what matter to us most. To ensure that the modems we recommend live up to everyone’s expectations, we conducted various tests related to performance and connectivity in various real-life scenarios. This helped us understand how well the modems performed in various daily situations.
Customer Feedback
We analyzed various forms of feedback from Windstream customers who had been using Windstream services in their day-to-day lives. This gave us valuable insight into various factors such as ease of installation, reliability, and performance of the modems.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Modem for Streaming
The right modem that perfectly aligns with your needs and your Windstream internet plan will significantly improve your online experience and make it easy and lag-free! However, there are several factors you need to consider before buying a modem that is right for you. These factors have been outlined below:
Internet Speed
The maximum speed of your Windstream internet plan is something you need to consider when looking to buy a new modem. The plan you’re currently subscribed to will have a maximum speed, as Windstream offers a variety of different plans with different speed tiers.
Information about your current plan will usually be available on your bill or on Windstream’s website. Now that you know more about the plan and the speed you use, choose a modem that can comfortably handle the maximum speed of your plan.
DOCSIS Version
The data over cable service interface specification (DOCSIS) version is a very important technical ability that should factor into your decision.
DOCSIS technology basically determines how fast data is transferred between the internet service provider’s network and your modem. Windstream offers services that are compatible with modems that support DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1.
DOCSIS 3.0 is suitable for a majority of Windstream plans. DOCSIS 3.0 modems are budget-friendly and provide reliable performances, too, but they might not be suitable for plans with higher speeds.
DOCSIS 3.1: If you use a higher-speed plan, a DOCSIS 3.1 modem is the one for you. This advanced technology can handle ultra-high-speed connections efficiently.
Channel Bonding
Channel bonding refers to the number of both downstream and upstream channels that your modem can use to transmit and receive data. The higher the number of channels, the better the modem’s performance!
This is especially true when there are a large number of devices connected to your network since it helps prevent congestion and ensures smooth data transfers.
If you have a large number of devices in your home, or if you engage in online activities that require a large amount of bandwidth, then a higher channel modem, such as a 32×8 channel bonding, would be ideal for you.
Budget
Knowing your budget is a crucial part of your decision-making process. Modems come in all shapes and sizes and with all price points! Your modem of choice should comfortably fit within your budget and align with your Windstream plan.
You don’t always have to buy the most expensive modem to get a really good performance! Consider your needs for the modem, how long you plan to use it, and the benefits you’ll get from not renting a modem from Windstream.
Future-Proofing
Your needs might not be the same in the future, and they need to be considered while you buy a modem that’s right for you. If you want to change your current plan to a higher-speed plan in the future, it would be a good idea to invest in a modem that will support those speeds.
Future-proofing refers to how well your devices can handle any changes in the services or improvements that you might end up making in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is possible to utilize your personal DSL modem with Windstream Kinetic internet plans.
Windstream can support both ADSL and VDSL internet connections, depending on the compatibility of your gateway device. Additionally, in some situations, you can even employ modem technology to attain bonded DSL speeds.
Unfortunately, cable modems are not suitable for accessing a Windstream internet plan. To ensure compatibility with any Kinetic internet plan, it is necessary to have an ADSL modem that can handle 12MB internet speeds. Opting for a higher capacity is always beneficial.
Indeed, most modems approved by Windstream come equipped with built-in routing capabilities. This feature enhances transmission quality and minimizes attenuation.
Conclusion
Selecting the right modem for your specific needs is important, ensuring a smooth and reliable online experience. There are different modems to suit all your needs, regardless of whether you have a DSL connection or a fiber optic connection.
You need to know what your specific requirements are before proceeding to buy a modem.
It is also essential for you to future-proof your setup in case you plan to change your network preferences or your plans in the future. This can be easily achieved by investing in a modem that can comfortably handle high speeds efficiently.
Chris loves technology, specifically smart home technology! With both hands-on and executive leadership experience in his corporate career, Chris stays abreast of emerging technology and solutions and immerses himself in BCCA when not in the office.